Antimicrobial Activity of the Nanoparticle Form of Greens (Lemon, Black Seeds or Flax) with Silver on Drug-resistant Human Pathogens

Abstract

Background:: Synthesizing a green source that has antimicrobial activity in nanoparticles is a novel and exciting approach to pharmaceutical science with promising results. Objective:: Green-silver nanoparticles (G-AgNPs) were evaluated for their antimicrobial action on drugresistant pathogens. Methods:: Lemon, black seeds, and flax were selected as green sources to synthesize nanoparticles formed with silver. Physical and chemical characteristics of these preparations were identified. The antimicrobial activities of the prepared compounds against drug-resistant clinical isolates of seven bacteria and five fungi were identified by disk diffusion and dilution methods. Results:: The nanoparticle characteristics were confirmed by physical and chemical measurements. Lemon extract with silver nanoparticles (L-AgNP) showed more antimicrobial action, particularly on Gram-positive bacteria and Candida albicans. Silver nanoparticles with black seeds (B-AgNP) and flax (F-AgNP) had only antibacterial effects on a single bacterium (Enterobacter cloacae). Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and two fungi, Candida glabrata and Candida utilis, showed resistance to all nanoparticles from plants. Conclusion:: Lemon with silver nanoparticle is an effective plant product for use against various drugresistant species of human pathogens. Further pharmaceutical studies are required to verify the suitability of this form of the drug for human use. Another plant is recommended for testing against the most resistant strains of pathogens