GREEN SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION AND BIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF SILVER NANOPARTICLES FROM MEDICINALLY IMPORTANT PLANT ALLIUM URSINUM

This study reports a straightforward, cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) utilizing Allium ursinum (wild garlic) leaves as both reducing and stabilizing agent. The green synthesis method is advantageous as it eliminates the needs for toxic chemical reducing agents, making it a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative The formation of (AgNPs) was initially validated by the distinct color change of silver nitrate solution from colorless to deep brown. Comprehensive characterization was performed using ultraviolet-visible (UV- vis) spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X- ray diffraction. These analysis revealed the formation of spherical, crystalline nanoparticles with an average diameter of about 24nm. The FTIR analysis further revealed the presence of biomolecules responsible for caping and stabilizing the nanoparticles. Furthermore, the biosynthesized AgNPs exhibited significant antibacterial activity against pathogens such as staphylococcus aureus, vibrio cholerae, and salmonella typhi, as well as antifungal activity against various candida species. The promising antimicrobial properties of these green synthesized AgNPs underscore their potential application in pharmaceutical and biomedical fields and antimicrobial coating industries.