TITLE:
Comprehensive Physicochemical Profiling and Characterization of Neem Plant Leaf Extracts: Insights for Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Applications
AUTHORS:
Martin Nduka Nwanekezie, Julius Nnamdi Ndive, Ijeoma Love Ogbonna, Godspower O. Sebe
KEYWORDS:
Phytochemical, N-Hexane, Neem Leaves, FTIR, Pharmaceutical, Biomedicine, Biomedical, Antioxidant, Chemical, Herbal
JOURNAL NAME:
Advances in Chemical Engineering and Science,
Vol.13 No.4,
October
31,
2023
ABSTRACT: This study presents a
comprehensive physicochemical analysis of neem plant leaf extracts with a focus on their potential applications in
pharmaceutical and biomedical
contexts. Utilizing the soxhlet extraction method with n-hexane as the
solvent, the study investigated the quantitative and qualitative composition of
neem leaf extracts in reference to concentrations. The results revealed a
diverse array of compounds, including cyanogenic glycoside, cardiac glycoside,
tannin, steroids, phytate, flavone, oxalate, rutin, lunamarin, catechin,
spatein, naringin, resveratrol, kaempferol, flavonones, epicatechin, and
epihedrine, with notable concentrations. Further analyses indicated shared
physicochemical properties, such as carboxyl and hydroxyl groups. Qualitative
assessments affirmed the presence of flavonoid and phenolic compounds, while
FTIR analysis confirmed the existence of carboxyl and hydroxyl groups. These
findings emphasize the potential use of neem leaves as pharmaceutical raw
materials due to their antioxidant-rich content. Additionally, the study
explored the density, viscosity, saponification value, and foaming power of
neem leaf extracts, providing insights into their industrial applicability. GC-MS analyses
highlighted the presence of significant chemical compounds, with
potential therapeutic implications. Mineral analysis demonstrated essential
elements for human and animal nutrition. This study underscores neem plant
leaves’ multifaceted potential across pharmaceutical, herbal medicine,
cosmetic, and functional food sectors. It lays a solid foundation for further
research into the specific health benefits, offering valuable insights for
harnessing neem leaves’ potential in innovative products and treatments.