Neem Research Articles

Water purification and biological efficacy of green synthesized Co/Zn-Doped α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles

In the present study, Co/Zn doped α-Fe2O3 (Hematite) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and Azadirachta indica (AI) leaves aqueous extract. The analytical techniques including XRD, UV, SEM, EDX, VSM, Raman, and FTIR, we were able to identify and characterize the structural, morphological and magnetic attributes of the synthesized NPs. The findings demonstrated that the synthesized NPs exhibit homogeneous spherical shapes with particle sizes ranging from 8.64 to 15.32 nm. The NPs have rhombohedral crystal lattices, with crystallite sizes of 23.25 nm for chemically synthesized doped α-Fe2O3 NPs and 12.52 nm for those synthesized using green methods. The magnetic study has shown that the saturation magnetization (Ms) value of NPs, which ranges from 36 to 45 emu/g at ambient temperature, exhibits superparamagnetic properties (300 K). The treatment of industrial wastewater and its reuse for agricultural purposes are the subjects of the current study. Different concentrations of doped α-Fe2O3 NPs were used as photocatalysts to degrade dyes in a bioreactor under UV light in a heterogeneous mixture. The degradation rates achieved were 96.42 % for Congo Red (CR) and 98.36 % for Eosin Yellow (EY). DPPH assays were conducted to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the synthesized doped α-Fe2O3 NPs. The percentage inhibition of DPPH radicals ranged from 71.13 % to 90.35 %. Our findings indicate that AI leaf extract holds promise as a valuable resource for the development of bioactive compounds and environmentally friendly approaches to synthesizing green NPs. This is primarily attributed to the increased accessibility of bioactive components with potent antioxidant properties. The combination of these benefits provides opportunities for novel uses in environmental cleanup, biological applications, and energy conversion.

Toxicity of botanical insecticides on the stingless bee Tetragonisca angustula

This study aimed to investigate the toxicity of botanical insecticides on the stingless bee Tetragonisca angustula (Apidae: Meliponini). Bioassays evaluated the effects of essential oils (EO) of Allium sativum (Amaryllidaceae), Eucalyptus citriodora (Myrtaceae), and commercial oil (CO) of Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae), in addition to ethanolic extracts (EE) of Piper nigrum (Piperaceae), and Eugenia caryophyllata (Myrtaceae). It was also assessed the effect of Surfactant addition to essential oils. The probit analysis was used to determine LC50 and LC90. Results showed essential oil of E. citriodora at 1% v/v was toxic to T. angustula, with mean mortalities of 42.00 and 46.00% at 96 hours and survival times of 107.52 and 105.60 hours for contact and ingestion, respectively. Ethanolic extracts of P. nigrum and E. caryophyllata caused 100% mortality within 24 hours through ingestion but were less toxic through contact. Surfactants increased mortality caused by the essential oil of E. citriodora from 47.67 to 93.33% and the commercial oil of A. indica from 38.00 to 100%. Essential oil of E. citriodora had the lowest LC50 and LC90 (0.075 and 1.45% v/v), indicating high toxicity to T. angustula. Ethanolic extracts of P. nigrum and E. caryophyllata had higher LC50 and LC90 values, showing lower toxicity. In conclusion, the oils of A. indica and E. citriodora and ethanolic extracts of P. nigrum and E. caryophyllata are toxic to stingless bee T. angustula.

Evaluation of the Ixodicidal Effect of Neem Essential Oil (Azadirachta Indica) in Domestic Dogs Infested by Ticks (Rhipicephalus Sanguineus) in the Veterinary Clinic Castim from the City of Arenillas Province El Oro

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the ixodicide effect of Neem Essential Oil (Azadirachta indica) in domestic dogs infested by ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) that were admitted to the CASTIM Veterinary Clinic, through the use of a shampoo based on Neem essential oil. (Azadirachta indica) at two concentration doses of 20% and 30% and with its positive control Derrivante (Ethion¬ + Cypermethrin) at 10%. thus determining: the effectiveness of the concentration of Neem oil, the time range in which the ixodicide effect occurs after application and the comparison of the positive control Derrivante (Ethion + Cypermethrin) at 10% vs. Neem essential oil 20% and 30%. evidencing its effectiveness, promoting the solution to the problem presented by most dogs at the Coastal or Littoral region level. In this research projected a total of 36 dogs male and female patients were analyzed by non-probabilistic consecutive sampling significance level of 0.05% admitted to the Veterinary Clinic CASTIM in a period of four months, classifying them according to size, type of coat (short and long) and their habitat (inside and outside the home) as indicators in which the acaricide efficiency of essential oil of Neem both 20% and 30% with residual effect 15 days were assessed in addition to the commercial product have Derrivante (ethion + Cypermethrin) as a positive control. According to data obtained, Neem Oil 30% had a greater effect in relation to the concentration to 20%, demonstrating the degree of infestation of ticks declined significantly as at 5 observation.

Polyherbal Formulation Development, Evaluation and Pharmacological Screening for Hepatoprotective Activity.

The current research work investigates the hepatoprotective action of polyherbal formulation prepared from ethanolic extracts of Azadirachta indica A. Juss, Moringa oleifera Lam, Cymbopogon citrates (DC.) Stapf, Tinospora cordifolia (Thumb.) Miers, Ricinus communis L., against experimental hepatotoxicity. The World Health Organization (WHO) is promoting herbal remedies derived from traditional medicinal plants in several countries. The main goal of this investigation was to create and evaluate the polyherbal formulation to protect albino Wistar rats against the hepatotoxic effects of CCl4. Three potential suspensions, polyherbal formulations A, B, and C, were formulated by trituration method using ethanolic extracts of specific medicinal plant components with different sodium carboxy methyl cellulose concentrations 1, 1.5, and 2%, respectively and evaluated the same for both certain physiochemical parameters, including organoleptic characteristics, pH, viscosity, sedimentation volume, redispersibility, density, specific gravity, zeta potential, and accelerated stability studies for three months and for hepatoprotective activity also. Evaluation parameters for Polyherbal Formulation-C have shown good results that met the specifications, with pleasant texture and appearance. Along with other physiochemical qualities, like pH, viscosity, flow rate and sedimentation, were all unchanged and showed significant hepatoprotective effects by reducing elevated serum enzyme levels SGOT, SGPT, ALP, total and direct bilirubin. It was discovered that each quality control parameter in the polyherbal suspension C formulation was thoroughly adequate and improved the recovery from hepatotoxicity caused by CCl4. These findings suggest that the produced polyherbal suspension C (containing ethanolic extracts of A. indica A. Juss, M. oleifera Lam, C. citrates (DC.) Stapf, T. cordifolia (Thumb.) Miers, R. communis L. may be stable, secure, and effective for use and exhibited notable hepatoprotective effects, possibly resulting from the combined impact of all these extracts.

Biogenic fabrication of NiO-ZnO-CaO ternary nanocomposite using Azadirachta Indica (Neem) leaves extract with proficient photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine B dye

In the current study, a ternary nanocomposite (NiO–ZnO–CaO) was successfully synthesized through the co-precipitation method using Azadirachta Indica (neem) leaves extract as green approach. The characterization of prepared nanocomposite was conducted using FT-IR, XRD, SEM and EDS to determine the metal oxides absorption bands, structural properties, elemental composition, and surface morphology of the nanocomposite. FT-IR analysis revealed characteristic vibrational peaks at 621, 684, and 721 cm−1, corresponding to Ni-O, Zn-O, and Ca-O bond vibrations, respectively. XRD patterns showed distinct diffraction peaks, indicative of the hexagonal structure of ZnO and the cubic structures of NiO and CaO. EDS analysis confirmed the presence of calcium, nickel, zinc, and oxygen with weight percentages of 9.2%, 14.4%, 15.1%, and 20.9%, respectively. SEM images displayed an irregular cube like morphology with noticeable clustering within the nanocomposite. The ternary nanocomposite was employed as photocatalyst and exhibited degradation efficiency (97%) against rhodamine B dye under 180 min of irradiation time. The kinetic studies of dye on the photocatalyst surface were accurately explained by a first-order kinetics model, with all R2 > 95, signifying a strong correlation between time and dye concentration. The potocatalytic degradation mechanism of ternary nanocomposite was proposed based on band positions of of NiO, ZnO and CaO forming double type II heterojunction. Furthermore, species trapping experiments employing different scavengers were carried out, revealing the active participation of OH● and O2●─ radicals in the degradation mechanism.

Sodium alumino silicate (SAS) neem nanocomposite – A novel seed storage tool against toxigenic Aspergillus flavus causing deterimental effects on seeds health and quality of rice

Infection of rice grains in the field during harvest and storage by Aspergillus flavus, a toxigenic mold causes significant losses to market acceptability of seeds due to its detrimental effects on seed health and quality parameters. Production of aflatoxin by A. flavus interferes with physiological factors affecting the quality of seeds during storage in addition to nutritional losses to the grains. Chemical seed treatments are generally not recommended during storage due to their adverse effects on seed germination and vigor. Leaves of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica) are well known for antifungal properties against phytopathogenic fungi such as A. flavus. The paper presents the effect of neem leaf extract adsorbed onto sodium alumino-silicate (SAS) nanoparticles against A. flavus in rice seeds during storage. SAS-Neem nanocomposite, a novel unexplored seed storage material against toxigenic A. flavus, was synthesized for augmented antitoxin and seed invigorating potential. The nanocomposite was characterized using an array of microscopic and spectroscopic methods to evaluate the adsorption of neem leaf extract components on SAS nanoparticles. The antifungal mechanism of the nanocomposite was evaluated via scanning electron microscope, phase contrast, and fluorescence microscopy. The toxin analysis of pathogen-inoculated seeds was carried out at monthly intervals for 6 months during storage of two rice varieties, i.e. PR114 and Pusa-Basmati 1121. The results indicated that the nSAS-Neem composite used as seed coating material maintained significantly higher seed germination (86.23 and 81.49%) and minimized seed rot (6.70 and 5.30%, respectively) in the two varieties under study than the control after 6 months of storage. There was a notable decrease in toxin concentration from 20.58 to 11.19 μg/kg and 19.16 to 12.58 μg/kg in seeds of the two varieties i.e. PR114 and Pusa Basmati 1121, respectively. The nano-composite proved effective against toxigenic A. flavus during seed storage of rice without compromising the seed quality parameters.

Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Infused with Azadirachta indica Extract and Chlorhexidine Against Red-complex Pathogens.

The present study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of silver nanoparticles infused with Azadirachta indica extract and chlorhexidine against red-complex periopathogens. Neem leaf extraction was done followed by standardization to the synthesis of neem-infused silver nanoparticles and fractionation of compounds done by using thin layer chromatography to separate the mixture of neem leaf extract. Characterization of neem-infused silver nanoparticles was done by scanning electron microscopy and UV-Visible spectroscopy. The compound identified in neem-infused silver nanoparticles was gedunin which was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Determination of antibacterial activity done by disc diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) methods. Group I-99% ethanolic extract, group II-neem-infused silver nanoparticles (NAgNPs), group III-chlorhexidine. The relative inhibitory zone value for Tannerella forsythia (180) in neem-infused silver nanoparticles (group II) was greater when compared with other periopathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis (133) and Treponema denticola (160) than 99% ethanolic extract (group I), chlorhexidine (group III). Neem-infused silver nanoparticles (group III) showed superior antimicrobial activity against T. forsythia (19.3 ± 31.1547) and T. denticola (18±0) when compared with P. gingivalis (17.6 ± 0.5774). On evaluating MIC and minimum bacterial concentrations, P. gingivalis is more resistant than other pathogens in neem-infused silver nanoparticles (group III). Neem-infused silver nanoparticles exhibited superior antibacterial activity as compared with gold-standard chlorhexidine against red-complex periodontal pathogens. For MIC and MBC all the three periopathogens were effective but P. gingivalis was more resistant. Antibiotics are effective against many drug-resistant bacteria. As a ready-made medicine, they can be used to treat many infections. Silver nanoparticles in drug delivery systems generally increase solubility, stability, and biodistribution, thereby increasing their effectiveness. Green synthesis using plant extracts as precursors to synthesize nanoparticles has proven to be environmentally non-hazardous combined with remarkably improved efficacy against bacterial and viral diseases. So neem-infused silver nanoparticles can be utilized as a drug delivery system. Hence, it can be used as a potential antibacterial ingredient in formulations for periodontal use like mouthwashes and gels for local drug delivery. How to cite this article: Krishnappan S, Ravindran S, Balu P, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Antimicrobial Efficacy of Silver Nanoparticles Infused with Azadirachta indica extract and Chlorhexidine Against Red-Complex Pathogens. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(6):547-553.

Design and Implementation of a Robotic Car with a ULV Atomizer for Mosquito Control in Urban Parks

Mosquito infestations in tropical regions, particularly during months of moderate to high rainfall, pose significant health risks due to diseases like Malaria, Dengue, and Chikungunya. Traditional control methods such as fumigation and chemical sprays face limitations of environmental concerns and potential health risks to humans. To address this issue in community parks, I developed a robotic car equipped with an atomizer to disperse an organic mosquito repellent. Powered by a Raspberry Pi 4 and brushless DC motors, the robotic vehicle is designed for stable and efficient movement across uneven park terrains. It is controlled via an integrated PlayStation 4 controller for user-friendly operation. The atomizer disperses a repellent from essential oils such as Neem (Azadirachta indica), Lemongrass, and Eucalyptus, offering an environmentally friendly and human-safe alternative to chemical repellents like DEET. Testing indicated that the robotic car equipped with an atomizer effectively reduces mosquito presence, enhancing the safety and enjoyment of outdoor recreational spaces.

Influence of ultrasound frequency, processing time, and cold temperature on quality characteristics of mutton subjected to ultrasonic nano-cooling with a preservative film

Refrigeration slows down microbial growth and oxidation in mutton, but it is not enough on its own to fully prevent spoilage. To promote preservation, this research evaluated the effectiveness of combining ultrasound treatment, nanocomposite packaging, and cold storage ― a method known as ultrasonic nano-cooling (UNC) on quality of mutton. Various ultrasound frequencies (40 and 80 kHz) and processing times (2–4 minutes) were applied to process the mutton. Thereafter, the products were packaged in nanocomposite film, made from sorghum starch and Azadirachta indica gum nanoparticles, and then stored under cold temperature condition: 2°C, 4°C, and 6°C. Analysis of the physical and biochemical properties revealed significant improvements in quality due to UNC preservation compared to the control (p < 0.05). Notably, the total bacterial load dropped from 5.4 × 10⁶ CFU/g in the control to 1.9 × 10⁶ CFU/g at 2°C with 80 kHz ultrasound after 4 minutes. This effect may be due to enhanced cavitation effects at higher frequencies, which, according to previous studies, can disrupt microbial cell walls. Lipid oxidation reduced from 0.45 mg MDA/kg to 0.20 mg MDA/kg, likely due to minimized thermal degradation and oxidative reactions, facilitated by lower temperatures and effective packaging. Water holding capacity increased from 70 % to 85 %, due to improved muscle fiber structure from ultrasound treatment, which aids moisture retention. The pH remained steady between 5.8 and 6.0, reflecting minimal spoilage and effective microbial control. This study demonstrates that UNC preservation is an effective method for extending mutton shelf life, aligning with the demand for high-quality, long-lasting mutton products.

Assessment of Species-Based Ecosystem Services and Its Usefulness in Forest-Savanna Ecological Zone

Forest ecosystems are the main species rich ecosystem on earth, having a significant role in the provision of massive benefits to the populace who depended on them for sustenance. This study aimed at assessing the forest provisioning ecosystem service and use in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. The objectives of this study include the identification of forest provisioning ecosystem services and their uses, people’s dependence for livelihood and quantity of ecosystem services supplied by community forests. Stratified sampling technique was used to select 8 sampled communities while Nikolopoulou convenience sampling technique was adopted for selecting sampling size of 200 persons. Also, 31 key informants were interviewed across the study area. The responses from the entire sampled questionnaire and interview were analyzed using Microsoft excel and statistical package for social sciences. The study revealed that a good number of the forest resources such as Elaeis guineensis, Garcinia kola, Bambusa vulgaris, Azadirachta indica and Brophyllum pinnatum have multiple uses. The result also revealed that the nature of forest determines the quantity of ecosystem service benefits supplied. Hence, those community forests with weak policies supply less than 40% of resources because their traditional laws of entering and harvesting forest resources are no longer effective, while those with strong policies like restriction into their sacred groves, forest reserves and swampy forests supply above 40%. The chi-square value of 352.873 with 28 degrees of freedom (DF) proved that there is strong relationship between the nature of forest and the quantity of ecosystem services provided. This research concludes that forest ecosystem in Ihiala L.G.A, supplies a wide variety of plant and animal species to the populace, which they basically use for timber, firewood, food and medicine. Nonetheless, without alternative and diversified livelihood, the supply is becoming unsustainable. It recommends that since palm tree and its resources are averagely abundant in the study area, there is need to support the establishment of basket making training centre in various communities and as such, make it an attractive skill acquisition programme.

Green biosynthesis of Ag-doped hetero-metallic oxide nanocomposite for efficient sunlight-driven photo-adsorptive degradation of carcinogenic naphthalene and phenanthrene

One of the most significant issues facing the world today is environmental contamination due to the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs release of reactive chemicals into the environment. Here, a green technology was used to synthesis the Ag doped Bi2O3@Co3O4 nanocomposite utilizing an extract from Azadirachta indica leaves. The morphological and structural examination of Ag doped Co3O4@Bi2O3 revealed an image in the form of a hollow spherical or flake adsorbed on a Ag surface with an increase surface area. New peaks in the FT-IR spectra of Ag–O and Co–O–Bi at 678 cm−1 and 1130 cm−1, respectively, show the coupling of Ag. Following this, under various reaction conditions (pollutant: 10–30 mg/L; catalyst: 10–30 mg; pH: 3–11, dark sunlight) the doped nanocomposite was assessed for the efficient removal of NAP and PHE. Ag doped Co3O4@Bi2O3 displayed maximum degradation of NAP (96 %) and PHE (94 %) at 10 mg/L conc. of each PAH with a 25 mg catalytic dose at neutral pH in the presence of direct sunlight. First-order kinetics followed by initial Langmuir adsorption constituted the degradation process. Predominant reactive species and safer metabolite formation in the photocatalysis process of PAHs were studied by scavenger and GC–MS analysis. The green nano photocatalyst that was created demonstrated excellent stability, sensitivity, and reusability (up to 8th cycles) during the degrading process, which likely qualified it for use in industrial uses.

Pharmacognostic and Pharmacological Study of "Azadirachta Indica" Bark Extracts

Azadiracta indica A. Juss (Meliaceae) commonly known as Neem,is found throughout India and is known to have many wonderous properties from ancient times.These A.indica shows different medicinal properties like antiulcerogenic, hypoglycemic, insecticidal, spermicidal actions. The stem bark was studied for morphological as well as microscopical characteristics. The present work was carried out on bark of Azadirachta indica belonging to family Meliaceae. The study was done on pharmacognostic, phytochemical and pharmacological studies on stems bark of Azadirachta indica collected from Sangamner of Ahmednagar district. Preliminary phytochemical screening of extract was done.Some part of extract was then used to study pharmacological screening of anti-anxiety activity.From the study of phytochemical and pharmacological investigation of Azadirachta indica bark it was found that different chemicals are present as glycosides, alkaloids, tannins, fats, steroids, proteins, etc. Azadirachta indica stem bark supports the elimination of related anxiety associated materials. Therefore, drawing conclusions from this research suggests that Azadirachta indica hydroethanolice etract were found to be with good antianxiety like activity in elevated plus maze model. Furthermore, this current study confirms the conventional utilisation of Azadirachta indica bark as a pain reliever by showing that its hydroethanolic determine has noteworthy analgesic properties for various dose amounts, with the greatest analgesic movement observed at a 60-minute time interval. More research is required, nevertheless, to determine how precisely it exerts its analgesic effects.

In vitro Evaluation on Efficacy of Bioagents and Plant Extracts against Early Blight of Tomato (Alternaria alternata)

AIMS: In vitro evaluation on efficacy of Bioagents and plant extracts against Early blight of tomato (Alternaria alternata) Study Design: CRD (Completely Randomized Design). Place and Duration of Study: A trial was conducted in plant pathology laboratory at HRS Venkataramannagudem, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Venkataramannagudem, during 2022. Methodology: The efficacy of bioagents were tested against isolates for radial growth inhibition on suitable media (Potato dextrose media and Nutrient agar media) using dual culture technique under in vitro conditions. The poisoned food technique was followed to evaluate theefficacy of botanicals in inhibiting the mycelial growth of test pathogen. Results: In the present investigation total nine bioagents and four plants extracts were tested against Alternariaalternata under in vitro. Results revealed that among the nine antagonists., Trichoderma harzianum, Tichoderma viride, Tichoderma longibraciatum (TCT4), Trichoderma reesi (TCT10), A10 (Tichoderma asperellum), A28 (Trichoderma harzianum), Trichoderma virens and two bacterial bioagents Pesudomonas fluorescens and Baciilus subtillis tested against A. alternata, maximum reduction in colony growth of A. alternata was observed in A10 (T. asperellum) (69.50%) and significantly superior over all other bioagents tested which was followed by A28 (T. harzianum) (62.96%) and the next best was T. virens (60.28%). Least inhibition was noticed in Bacillus subtillis (46.69%). Total four plant extracts neem leaves (Azadirachta indica), onion bulb (Allium cepa), garlic bulb (Allium sativum), and turmeric rhizome (Curcuma longa) tested at three concentrations (5, 7.5, 10 %) with suitable control by poisoned food technique against A. alternata, onion bulb extract (44.07%) which was found superior to all other tested botanicals. Least mean per cent inhibition was recorded with turmeric (21.34%).

Green synthesis of In2S3-supported Ni-MOF: Bifunctional photocatalyst for sustainable H2O2 production and 2,4,6-trinitrophenol photoreduction

This study describes a unique and sustainable strategy for synthesizing a highly effective photocatalyst using solvothermal synthesis to combine bioderived In2S3 and Nickel Metal-Organic Framework (Ni-MOF) forming In2S3/Ni-MOF. Bioderived In2S3 was produced using Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf extract, providing a green and sustainable source for semiconductor material synthesis. The synergistic interaction of In2S3 with Ni-MOF led to better charge transfer kinetics, a wider band gap, and reduced charge recombination, all contributing to increased photoactivity. The constructed photocatalyst performed admirably under visible light irradiation in producing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with an impressive 1528.5 μmol/g.h yield. Furthermore, the photocatalyst demonstrated extraordinary effectiveness in reducing 2,4,6-trinitrophenol (2,4,6-TNP), with a reduction efficiency of 96.31 % in 20 min and high reusability in both applications. The observed results highlight the importance of the collaborative impact between In2S3 and Ni-MOF, demonstrating the promise of this green-synthesized material as a highly efficient photocatalyst with dual uses in various environmental settings. Using renewable neem leaf extract to manufacture In2S3 adds an environmentally beneficial component to the entire strategy, helping to build sustainable and efficient photocatalytic materials.

Formulation and Development of herbal Gel containing Cannabis sativa and Azadirachta indica leaves extract for Anti-inflammatory and Anti-bacterial activity

Bacteria are everywhere and play a crucial part in the maintenance of germs that cause illness and disease. Skin infections are anticipated to occur at a rate of 24.6 per 1000 people yearly. The treatment of any skin infections primarily consists of any necessary surgical debridement; nevertheless, injecting an antibiotic directly into a wound has several potential benefits. Topical antibiotic treatment and wound care are recommended. The administration of a therapy may allow treatment with medicines that are not yet available (or safe) for systemic therapy. Gels are semi-solid systems having qualities intermediate between solids and liquids, in which the movement of the dispersing medium is constrained by an interlacing three-dimensional network of particles or solvated macromolecules of the dispersed phase. This study aimed to explore the potential of Cannabis sativa, Azadirachta indica leaves extract as anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents. The formulation has been developed by solvent casting method. The experiment was conducted using various techniques to measure the effectiveness of each substance individually and in combination. Results showed that Cannabis sativa and Azadirachta indica leaves extract both had strong anti-inflammatory properties, while glycerol demonstrated significant antibacterial activity. When combined, these substances exhibited enhanced anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, indicating potential for their use in pharmaceutical and medical applications. Overall, this study highlights the importance of exploring natural products for their therapeutic potential and provides insight into the potential of these substances as novel anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents.

Exploring the antifungal properties of neem (Azadirachta indica) during: A comprehensive review (2010-2020)

Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a versatile medicinal plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine systems. Among its various therapeutic properties, neem has gained attention for its potent antifungal activity. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the antifungal properties of neem, highlighting its mechanisms of action, efficacy against fungal pathogens, and potential applications in clinical and agricultural settings. By synthesizing findings from a wide range of research studies, this review aims to deepen our understanding of neem's antifungal properties and explore its potential as a natural alternative for combating fungal infections.

Sarva Roga Nivarini, Gift of the Gods

The article deals with the Azadirachta indica tree, called neem, which, as well as its products, is used in traditional medicine, agrochemicals, as a source of biologically active substances, but also as part of food. It describes the main chemical components, namely azadirachtin. Full text English translation is available in the on-line version.

Biodegradable, biocompatible, and self-healing, injectable hydrogel based on oxidized Azadirachta indica gum and carboxymethyl chitosan through dynamic imine-linkage for biomedical application

Biodegradable, biocompatible, and self-healing, injectable hydrogel based on oxidized Azadirachta indica gum and carboxymethyl chitosan through dynamic imine-linkage for biomedical application

Evaluating the Efficacy of Plant Extracts in Managing the Bruchid Beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae).

An estimated 2000 plant species have been employed for pest control worldwide. The use of these botanical derivatives is thought to be one of the most cost-effective and sustainable options for pest management in stored grain. The present study was designed to assess the efficacy of five plant extracts viz; Nicotiana tabacum L., Nicotiana rustica L., Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Thuja orientalis L., and Melia azedarach L. against Callosobruchus maculatus L. Plant species extracts were applied at six different concentrations, i.e., 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, and 3.0% in four replications. The phytochemical analyses of ethanolic extracts of five plant species showed variable amounts of phytochemicals i.e., alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, diterpenes, phytosterol, and phenols. Total phenolic and flavonoid compounds were also observed. The efficacy of A. indica was highest, characterized by the lowest infestation rate (16.65%), host seed weight loss (7.85%), mean oviposition (84.54), and adult emergence (58.40%). In contrast, T. orientalis was found to be the least effective against C. maculatus, with the highest infestation rate of 25.60%, host seed weight loss of 26.73%, mean oviposition of 117.17, and adult emergence rate of 82.01%. Probit analysis was performed by estimating LC50 and LC90. The toxicity percentages of N. tabacum (LC50 = 0.69%, LC90 = 14.59%), N. rustica (LC50 = 0.98%, LC90 = 22.06%), and A. indica (LC50 = 1.09%, LC90 = 68.52%) were notable in terms of the lower LC50 and LC90 values after the 96-h exposure period against C. maculatus. Repellency was assessed by using the area preference and filter paper method. The repellency of C. maculatus on plant extracts increased with the increasing dose and time, such that it was the highest after 48 h. Likewise, at a 3% concentration, A. indica demonstrated 100.00% (Class-V) repellency followed by N. tabacum (96.00%, Class-V), N. rustica (74%, Class-IV), M. azedarach (70.00%, Class-IV), and T. orientalis (68.00%, Class-IV). Based on the findings of this study, we recommend integrating N. rustica, N. tabacum, A. indica, and M. azedarach for effective management of C. maculatus and highlight the potential of these plant species in the formulation of new biocidal agents.

Understanding physiological, elemental distribution and bioaccumulation responses of crustose and foliose lichens in the vicinity of coal-based thermal power plant, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, India

Environmental pollution, especially from coal-based thermal power plants, poses significant risks to human respiratory health and the environment. This study evaluates the diversity of lichens in the areas. Physiological and bioaccumulation responses of two crustose lichens (Bacidia incongruens and Rindoina sophodes) and one foliose lichen (Pyxine cocoes) in the vicinity of the Feroz Gandhi Unchahar National Thermal Power Corporation, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, India were also assessed. These lichens, exposed to emissions including fly ash, greenhouse gases, metals, and particulate matter were analyzed for metal accumulation and physiological responses. Changes in physiological parameters and metal profiles concerning distance from the coal-based thermal power plant to the outskirts were analyzed for B. incongruens, R. sophodes and P. cocoes by utilizing Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The study identified 18 lichen species from 12 genera and 10 families in the area, with Pyxine sorediata newly recorded in Uttar Pradesh. The dominant species, B. incongruens, P. cocoes, and R. sophodes, preferred substrates like Mangifera indica, Acacia nilotica, and Azadirachta indica bark. Physiological analyses revealed variations in pigment concentrations, with significant differences in chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, and chlorophyll degradation, while protein content remained stable. Metal accumulation studies showed nine metals with distinct patterns, B. incongruens had higher concentrations in the west (52730.61 µg g-1) and P. cocoes in the east (23628.32 µg g-1). Correlation analyses indicated significant relationships between paired elements, suggesting specific sources of environmental contamination. This research highlights the significance of integrating physiological and environmental factors to understand lichen responses to coal based thermal power plant.