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 virus as compared to whole neem oil. The NIM-76 preparation showed stronger anti-microbial activity than the whole neem oil. It inhibited growth of various pathogens tested including Escherichia coli and Kleibsiella pneumoniae which were not affected by the whole neem oil. NIM-76 also exhibited antifungal activity against Candida albicans and antiviral activity against Polio virus replication in vero cell lines. It also protected mice from systemic candidiasis as revealed by enhanced % survival and reduced colony forming units of C. albicans in various tissues. This shows that NIM-76 has a potent broad spectrum anti-microbial activity.