Anti-microbial activity of a new vaginal contraceptive NIM-76 from neem oil (Azadirachta indica)

Efficacy of NIM-76, a spermicidal fraction from neem oil, was investigated for its antimicrobial action against certain bacteria, fungi and Polio viru s as compared to whole neem oil. The NIM-76 preparation showed stronger ant i-microbial activity than the whole neem oil. It inhibited growth of variou s Pathogens tested including Escherichia coli and Kleibsiella pneumoniae wh ich were not affected by the whole neem oil. NIM-76 also exhibited antifung al activity against Candida albicans and antiviral activity against Polio v irus replication in vero cell lines. It also protected mice from systemic c andidiasis as revealed by enhanced % survival and reduced colony forming un its of C. albicans in various tissues. This shows that NIM-76 has a potent broad spectrum anti-microbial activity. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ireland L td. All rights reserved.