4 Vet Info-H • Sep–Dec 2023 • Vol 11 • No. 4 Environmental Benefits of A indica1 Pharmacology Habitat Azadirachta indica is a fast-growing, evergreen tree that grows to a height of 20 to 23 m. The tree trunk is straight with whitish-gray to reddish-brown, fissured bark. The leaves are alternate, compound, and imparipinnate. The flowers are white and borne in axillary clusters. The fruits are olive-like, smooth, green drupes that appear oval to roughly roundish.1,2 Morphology A indica leaves are a rich source of various types of bioactive compounds. The most important phytoconstituent of A indica is azadirachtin. Other compounds of therapeutic importance include nimbolinin, nimbin, nimbidin, nimbidol, nimbandiol, nimbolide, gedunin, salannin, and quercetin.2 Chemical Constituents Nature’s Secret Azadirachta indica A indica is found in abundance in tropical and semitropical regions such as India, Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.2,3 The leaves, fruits, seeds, flowers, and stem bark of A indica have important roles in disease prevention because they are a rich source of antioxidants. Traditionally, A indica is used in the treatment of acne, leprosy, malaria, chicken pox, and tuberculosis. The leaves, fruits, seeds, flowers, and stem bark of A indica possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, parasiticidal, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties.2,3 1. A indica tree releases more oxygen through its high photosynthesis rate. 2. The huge canopies of A indica trees serve as a windbreaker. 3. The wood of A indica is termite resistant and also serves as fuel wood with high calorific value. 4. The water-purifying property of the leaf powder of A indica makes it an effective biosorbent.
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