Synthesis, characterization and pharmacological activities of silver nanoparticles using Bistorta affinis and Malcolmia cabulica extracts

Abstract

Green biogenic nanoparticles have medicinal applications. The aim of this study was to use silver nitrate solution to carry out plant-mediated synthesis of silver (Ag) nanoparticles (AgNPs) in aqueous extracts of Bistorta affinis and Malcolmia cabulica. The purpose of using the aqueous medium was for it to act as a reducing agent, as well as a capping agent. The synthesized AgNPs were confirmed through ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy and analyzed through X-ray diffractometry (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). It was observed from the AgNPs’ visual spectrum obtained from UV–vis spectroscopy that their surface plasmon resonance had a peak at 420 nm for B. affinis and at 430 nm for M. cabulica. SEM revealed spherical monodispersed nanoparticles with diameters ranging from 10 to 30 nm. The SEM results were confirmed by TEM analysis. The XRD showed the crystalline nature of the synthesized AgNPs. EDX confirmed the existence of silver in both types of synthesized AgNPs. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses were performed. AgNPs showed significant cytotoxic effect of 84% against Artemia salina at a high concentration for B. affinis and 82% for M. cabulica. AgNPs showed good antioxidant and phytotoxic effects, while phytolectins were absent.