Phytochemical Characterization, Formulation, and Evaluation of Antibacterial Activity of Neem (Azadirachta Indica) Antiseptic Cream

Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) has been extensively utilized in traditional medicine owing to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. The present study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition of neem leaf extract, formulate a topical antiseptic cream, and evaluate its antibacterial efficacy against Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. Neem leaves were shade-dried, powdered, and subjected to solvent extraction. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, saponins, carbohydrates, and terpenoids. An oil-in-water cream was formulated incorporating the neem extract and evaluated for physicochemical parameters including pH, spread ability, homogeneity, stability, and antimicrobial activity. Antibacterial efficacy was assessed using the agar well diffusion method. The formulated neem cream exhibited significant zones of inhibition against B. subtilis (22 ± 1.2 mm) and E. coli (18 ± 0.9 mm), indicating strong antibacterial activity. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA confirmed the significance of results (p < 0.05). The study demonstrates the potential of neem-based antiseptic cream as a natural, safe, and effective alternative to synthetic antimicrobial formulations.