महानिम्ब

• Botanical Name: Melia azedarach Linn.
• Family: Meliaceae
• Synonyms: Ramyaka, Dreka, Bakain, Malaivembu, Turaka Vepa
• Vernacular Name: Commonly known as “Mahanimba” in Sanskrit, “Bakain” in Hindi, and “Persian Lilac” in English.
• Classification: A medium-sized deciduous tree belonging to the Meliaceae family.
• Habitat: Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions, often found in hilly areas and along roadsides.
• Morphology: A tree that grows up to 10–15 meters in height. It has a cylindrical bole, pinnate leaves with serrated edges, and small, fragrant, lilac-colored flowers. The fruits are drupe-like, yellowish when ripe, and contain a hard seed.
• Useful Parts: Bark, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds.
• Chemical Composition: Contains tannins, alkaloids, azadirachtin, melianone, and β-sitosterol. The plant is rich in bioactive compounds with medicinal properties.
• Pharmacological Action: Known for its anthelmintic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and insecticidal properties. It is used in treating skin disorders, intestinal worms, and respiratory issues.
• Formulation: Used in Ayurvedic preparations like Mahavishgarbha Taila and Bruhadmanjisthadi Kwath. It is also used in traditional remedies for skin diseases and as a natural pesticide.

Rasa: Tikta , Katu

Guna: Ruksha , Laghu

Virya: Ushna

Vipaka: Katu