Biological synthesis of iron nanoparticles: characterization and therapeutic potential using <i>Grewia optiva</i> leaf extract

Grewia optiva leaf extract was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent to create iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) in an eco-friendly manner. Before being extracted in an aqueous solution for 20 min at 100 ºC using Jeldal equipment, the leaves were meticulously dried, washed, and dried again. The extract was used to dissolve iron (III) chloride (FeCl3) to bio-fabricate iron nanoparticles (FeNPs). Temperature, duration, pH, and salt effect were the parameters used to optimize the bio-fabricated FeNPs. It was found that a temperature of 85°C, pH ranging from 6 to 7, and a 24-h duration were ideal for the bio-fabrication of FeNPs. The FeNPs were analyzed through various methods, i.e., Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) for the identification of chemical bonds and functional groups, X-ray diffraction (XRD) for crystalline structure, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for morphological analysis. Scanning electron microscopy was used to analyze the shape and size of the nanoparticles. FeNPs exhibited noteworthy biological potential through their ability to scavenge free radicals and their demonstrated phytotoxic, insecticidal, analgesic, antibacterial, and antipyretic properties. The findings showed that the aqueous extract of Grewia optiva contained FeNPs that could be used to create innovative pharmaceutical and agricultural medicines.