PHYTOCHEMICAL SCREENING OF AZADIRACTA INDICA LEAVES (NEEM LEAVES)

ABSTRACT The phytochemical screening of Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf extract was conducted to identify and quantify the presence of bioactive compounds. The study conducted various tests to assess the phytochemical components. About 1kg of matured fresh leaves of Azadirchta indica (neem) was collected from Sardauna Estate leaves of the plant, which were ground into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. The leaf extract of A. indica was prepared using ethylacetate solvent. The results of the screening revealed that the presence of alkaloids, saponins, phenols, and cardiac glycosides in the neem leaf extract is significant, and flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids were not detected in the neem leaf extract. The presence of alkaloids, saponins, phenols, and cardiac glycosides suggests that neem leaves may hold promise in traditional and contemporary medicinal practices. Alkaloids, known for their pharmacological significance, may contribute to the plant's therapeutic properties. Saponins, with their frothing and foaming characteristics, have been associated with immunomodulatory effects and their potential in agrochemical applications. Phenolic compounds, as evidenced by the positive response to the Ferric chloride test, indicate the antioxidant potential of neem leaves, which can combat oxidative stress. Conversely, the absence of flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids suggests that these specific phytochemical classes may be limited in neem leaves. These findings open avenues for further research and utilization of neem as a valuable natural resource.