The Neem Tree

Book excerpt: The most comprehensive and best illustrated treatment of the fascinating tropical neem tree (Azadirachta indica) and its unique substances. The extracts from the neem tree have an enormously broad range of applications. The main substance azadirachtin, a tetranortriterpenoid, influences the hormone system of insects, exerting thereby a pesticidal effect. Feeding activity, reproduction and flying ability of insects are also affected. It is biologically degradable and can be easily extracted from the seeds of the tree. Other important uses of neem tree products are: - antifertility and population control - cure of human diseases - manure and nitrification inhibitors - feeds for domestic animals - soap production With its exhaustive treatment of the neem tree and closely related plants, this book provides us with an impressive example of the varied uses of renewable resources.