Biochemical Studies of Essential Oil and Biogenically Synthesized Silver Nanoparticles from <i<Croton zambesicus</i> Leaf Extracts

This study investigated the phytochemical composition, physicochemical properties, and biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Croton zambesicus leaf extracts. The plant material underwent extraction using water, ethanol, and n-hexane, followed by qualitative phytochemical screening, revealing the presence of key bioactive compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, terpenes, tannins, and saponins. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis further identified major constituents in the volatile oil. Biogenic AgNPs were synthesized using the aqueous extract, characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM, TEM, and XRD techniques, which confirmed their crystalline nature and nanoscale size. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated strong inhibitory effects of the volatile oil and AgNPs, especially against Escherichia coli, while antioxidant testing revealed significant free radical scavenging activity. These findings support the potential of Croton zambesicus as a source of bioactive compounds and ecofriendly nanoparticle synthesis.