Comparative Evaluation of Green-Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles and Nanoemulsion of Zygophyllum decumbens Extracts: Antidiabetic and Antimicrobial Activities

Disease resistance, including insulin and microbial resistance, is a global challenge. Nano-formulations of plant extracts offer eco-friendly solutions by enhancing biological activities. Zygophyllum species, particularly Zygophyllum. decumbens (Z. decumbens), are recognized for their bioactive compounds with their potential to manage diabetes and microbial infections. This study developed silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and nanoemulsion (NE) formulations of Z. decumbens ethyl acetate (ET) and n-butanol (BT) extracts, assessed their physicochemical properties, and evaluated their antihyperglycemic and antimicrobial activities. AgNPs from both extracts showed enhanced dose-dependent antihyperglycemic activity, with n-butanol extract AgNPs (BTN) exhibiting significant α-amylase inhibition (96.09±0.23% and 99.60±0.63% at 50 and 500 µg/ml, respectively). Both AgNPs demonstrated strong antimicrobial effects, particularly against resistant Gram-positive bacteria (MIC 0.3125 and 0.00976 mg/ml). In contrast, NE formulations showed promising antihyperglycemic activity but limited antimicrobial efficacy. This study highlights the dual biological activity of green-synthesized AgNPs from Z. decumbens extracts, surpassing NE formulations in therapeutic potential. AgNPs appear more effective for managing diabetes and combating microbial infections, encouraging further exploration of their mechanisms and clinical applications.