International Journal of

Pharmaceutical Science and Medicine

ISSN: 2584-1610 (Online)

PHARMACOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF AZADIRACHTA INDICA LEAF EXTRACT IN DERMATOPHYTE INFECTIONS: A REVIEW


Sr No: 3
Page No: 133-141
Language: English
Licence: IJPSM
Authors: Aman Yadav
Received: 2025-10-01
Revised: 2025-10-19
Accepted: 2025-12-05
DOI: 10.70199/IJPSM.3.4.133-141
Published Date: 2025-12-25
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Abstract:
Dermatophyte infections are superficial fungal infections that affect keratin-rich tissues such as the skin, hair, and nails, and are primarily caused by dermatophyte species including Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. These infections, commonly referred to as ringworm, athlete’s foot, and jock itch, are highly prevalent worldwide, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, and are often associated with itching, inflammation, and recurrent infections. Conventional antifungal therapies are widely used for treatment; however, their prolonged use may lead to adverse effects, drug resistance, high treatment costs, and reduced patient compliance. These limitations have increased the demand for safer, cost-effective, and plant-based therapeutic alternatives for the management of dermatophyte infections. Azadirachta indica (Neem) is a well-known medicinal plant widely used in traditional systems of medicine for the treatment of various skin diseases and infections. Neem leaves are rich in bioactive phytochemicals such as nimbidin, nimbin, azadirachtin, nimbolide, quercetin, flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids, which contribute to its multiple pharmacological activities. Scientific studies have reported that neem leaf extract possesses significant antifungal activity against dermatophytes, along with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that help in reducing fungal growth, inflammation, and oxidative stress, thereby promoting skin healing and infection control. Furthermore, neem-based topical formulations such as gels, creams, and ointments have shown enhanced therapeutic efficacy in dermatological applications. However, further studies on extract standardization, toxicity evaluation, and clinical trials are required to establish its therapeutic potential.
Keywords: Azadirachta indica, Neem, Dermatophytes, Antifungal activity, Skin infections, Medicinal plant

Journal: International Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Medicine
ISSN(Online): 2584-1610
Publisher: Pharmedico Publishers, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Frequency: Quarterly
Language: English

PHARMACOLOGICAL POTENTIAL OF AZADIRACHTA INDICA LEAF EXTRACT IN DERMATOPHYTE INFECTIONS: A REVIEW