Neem products can influence about 400-500 insect species.

For ecologically sound, equitable, and ethical pest management, there is a need for control agents that are pest-specific, non-toxic to humans and other biota, biodegradable, less prone to pest resistance and resurgence.

Among various options, neem has been identified as a source of environmentally "soft" natural pesticides.
In the traditional Indian farming system nutrient supply and pest management were integrated not only into the cropping system as a whole but also into their way of life.

Locally available plant derived substances like Neem, Karanj, Tulsi; Vidang protected the crops and nourished the soils.

The pest control potential of neem in developing countries, however, remained largely untapped due to the advent of DDT and other and other broad-spectrum synthetic insecticides. It is only in the past decade, that the pest control potential of neem, which does not kill pests but affects their behavior and physiology, has been recognized.

Though subtle, neem's effects such as repellence, feeding and oviposition deterrence, growth inhibition, mating disruption, chemo-sterilization etc. are now considered far more desirable than a quick knock-down in integrated pest management programs as they reduce the risk of exposing pests natural enemies to poisoned food or starvation.

Neem products also act as natural insect repellants. Azadirachtin and other bitter compounds in Neem make insects stay away from treated plants. Many insects prefer to starve rather than feed on neem treated plants. This helps minimize overall damage to plants, especially from adult pests.

Neem derivatives have been applied against several species of storage pests and crop pests with neem leaves, neem oil, neem cake, extracts and as formulations of neem oil. Powdered neem seed kernel has reduced pest infestation in warehouses. These are used alone or with other insecticides.

The chances of insect pests developing resistance to neem materials are remote. The neem based pesticides are environmentally friendly.