Biomass-assisted green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles using Azadirachta indica, Ocimum basilicum, and Curcuma longa: evaluation of antifungal potential

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have garnered significant attention and found a wide array of uses, such as in the biomedical field, textiles, electronics, food packaging, as well as environmental applications. Considering their distinctive characteristics linked to a significant surface area to volume ratio and their exceedingly small size, they possess remarkable properties. The conventional methods involve hazardous chemicals and generate toxic byproducts which necessitated a greener approach for the production of AgNPs. Moreover, a greener approach is a sustainable and economically viable option that prioritizes environmental friendliness over conventional methods. Azadirachta indica, Ocimum sanctum, Aloe Vera, etc. are some common plants used in Ayurveda from ancient times for its antimicrobial properties. This paper investigates antifungal potential of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced using plants including leaves and rhizomes (dried and powdered) of neem (Azadirachta indica), basil (Ocimum basilicum) and turmeric (Curcuma longa). The phytonutrient compounds in plants act as not only capping agents but also as reducing agents. The analysis of these formulated AgNPs are performed by diverse characterization techniques such as SEM, FTIR and UV-vis spectroscopy for imaging the surface and checking the optical properties. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited a size range of approximately 10 to 80 nm and displayed diverse morphologies. Maximum absorbance peaks were detected within the 350 to 450 nm range. FTIR examination disclosed the presence of OH, C-H, and C = O functional groups at 3334 cm-1, 2111 cm-1, and 1634 cm-1 respectively, indicating their attachment to the AgNPs obtained through the conversion of plant leaves (neem, basil, and turmeric).