Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Medicinal Plant Extracts: Characterization and Biomedical Potential

Abstract

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using medicinal plant extracts has emerged as a sustainable and eco-friendly approach for producing biologically active nanomaterials. This study investigated the biosynthesis, characterization, and biomedical potential of AgNPs derived from selected plant extracts. The nanoparticles were synthesized via a simple reduction process, and their formation was confirmed through ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy. Morphological and structural analyses were performed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited predominantly spherical shapes with an average particle size of 18–35 nm and crystalline face-centered cubic structures. Functional group analysis revealed the involvement of plant-derived phytochemicals in nanoparticle stabilization. The biomedical potential of the biosynthesized AgNPs was evaluated through antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity assays. The results demonstrated broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, significant concentration-dependent free radical scavenging activity, and moderate dose-dependent cytotoxic effects on mammalian cells, indicating biocompatibility at lower concentrations. These findings highlighted the multifunctional nature of green-synthesized AgNPs and their potential applications in antimicrobial therapy, oxidative stress mitigation, and wound healing. Overall, the study validated the efficacy of plant-mediated green synthesis as a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable approach to producing nanomaterials with promising biomedical relevance.