The Effect of Drying on the Phytochemical Composition of Azadirachta Indica Leaf Extract

Azadirachta indica (Common name Neem) belongs to the family of Meliaceae. It is planted both for ornamental and medicinal purposes and recently in Northern Nigeria and other Sahel regions to check encroachment by Sahara desert. A survey by the United Nation Commission for Trade and Development (UNCTAD) indicated that about 33% of drugs produced in the developed countries are derived from plants. The fresh leaves of Azadirachta indica were collected from Nsukka towns. Some of the fresh leaves of Azadirachta indica were sun dried. Phytochemical studies were carried out on the crude aqueous leaf extracts (decotion of both the fresh leaves and dry leaves) using standard phytochemical methods (Chemical method and thin layer chromatography method). The result of the study showed that both fresh leaves and dry leaves extracts (decotion) contain the following phytochemical; Reducing sugars, Flavonoids, (Qucertin, 3-Rutinoside, 3-Rhamnoside) Saponins, Anthraquinone, Tannins, Steriodal aglycone, Cardiac glycosides, Cyanogenic glycosides, Terpenoids and Sugars (Fructose, Rhamnose, Xylose and Mannose). The result of this study showed presence of vitamin C in the fresh leaves extract (decotion) of Azadirachta indica but was not detected in the dry leaves extracts. This showed that drying affects phytochemical contents of this medicinal plant. Therefore in preparing this folk medicine, It is very necessary to use fresh leaves to ensure retention of phytochemical properties after preparing the herbal medicine.