Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Phytochemicals Extracted from Aqueous Clerodendrum glabrum for Anti-Diabetes and Anti-Inflammatory Activity: An In Vitro Study

This study synthesised silver nanoparticles using an aqueous extract from <i>Clerodendrum glabrum</i> and investigated their potential anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory activity. Diabetes and inflammation are conditions affecting millions worldwide, and the current medications result in side effects. Silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) were synthesised using <i>C. glabrum</i> aqueous extract. Nanoparticles were characterised using ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). CG-Ag nanoparticles (CG-Ag NPs) were further evaluated for their nitric oxide (NO) scavenging activity; inhibition of α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and hyaluronidase enzymes; and cytotoxic potential. HR-TEM revealed CG-Ag NPs with an average particle size of 16 nm for 10 mg of plant extract, while 40 mg produced 35 nm, and EDS confirmed the presence of silver elements. The synthesised CG-Ag NPs showed good anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting 93.3% of α-amylase at 6.25 µg/mL, 99.25% of α-glucosidase at 0.95 µg/mL, and 79.6% of hyaluronidase at 100 µg/mL. The NPs also scavenged 96.58% of NO at 250 µg/mL. These results suggest that <i>C. glabrum</i> aqueous extract is a green resource for the eco-friendly synthesis of Ag NPs and can potentially be utilised as a therapeutic agent for managing diabetes and inflammation.