Nutritional Potentials of Azadirachta indica Leaf and its Potentials in Ameliorating Malaria Infections

Abstract

The present study evaluated the nutritional composition and phytochemical profile of Azadirachta indica (neem) leaf and discussed its potential role in ameliorating malaria infections. Proximate analysis revealed high carbohydrate (57.84 ± 7.91 %) and fat (20.58 ± 9.08 %) contents, indicating its potential as an energy-dense plant material. The leaf extract also contained moderate levels of ash (8.50 ± 0.50 %) and moisture (9.25 ± 0.25 %), but low protein content (1.32 ± 0.42 %). Phytochemical screening indicated substantial quantities of cardiac glycosides (5.2 %), saponins (4.98 %), alkaloids (4.2 %), and flavonoids (2.6 %), with tannins being lowest (0.65 %). Vitamin analysis showed high concentrations of ascorbic acid (122.50 ± 6.50 µg/ml) and tocopherol (70.27 ± 19.86 µM), both essential antioxidants, along with appreciable B-complex vitamins. Mineral analysis revealed the presence of Mg, Ca, Fe, Mn, and Zn, with magnesium being the most abundant (0.57± 0.07 ppm). These findings indicate that A. indica leaf possesses rich nutritional and bioactive constituents capable of supporting antimalarial therapy through antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and hematoprotective mechanisms. Thus, neem leaf extract presents a promising adjunct in the nutritional management and amelioration of malaria infection.