Chapter 4 - Biological synthesis of nanoparticles from selected medicinal plants

Abstract

Nanotechnology has become one of the most promising technologies of modern science. Metal nanoparticles, especially gold and silver nanoparticles, have been acknowledged globally for their extensive applications in the biomedical and physiochemical fields. Under the nano-revolution, the development and implementation of new technologies have unfolded the role of plants in the bio and green synthesis of nanoparticles. Though the synthesis of nanoparticles can be done through several conventional methods, their biological systems-based synthetic has emerged as an alternative to overcome the limitations of physical and chemical techniques. Medicinal plants provide several bioactive phytomolecules such as alkaloids, terpenoids, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, quinines, etc. involved in a wide range of applications in the field of pharmaceutical, agricultural, industrial, etc. This chapter discusses the process and importance of employing medicinal plants for nanoparticle biosynthesis as reliable and environment-friendly methods.