English

Abstract

The number of medical applications of silver nanoparticles is constantly increasing due to their high bactericidal properties coupled with low toxicity towards living cells. Because of this expanding use of silver nanoparticles, novel methods of synthesis have been developed in order to achieve nanoparticles preparation through inexpensive and environmentally friendly process.1 Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles is an approach that meets those requirements. Nanoparticles are an intermediate between bulk materials and individual atoms with unique properties. Nanoparticles have been employed in various fields such as catalysis, ceramics, drug delivery and diagnostics and therapies of oncology.2 Several studies have described the controlled synthesis of metal nanoparticles of different sizes and shapes mediated by bio molecules, which is nontoxic and minimises environment damage. Antioxidants have been widely used as additive to provide protection against oxidative degradation of foods.3 Although many synthetic chemicals, such as phenolic compounds are found to be strong radical scavengers, they usually have serious side effects.4 In view of this, antioxidant substances obtained from natural sources will be great interest. Turmeric is extensively used as spice, as a colouring agent for textiles, pharmaceuticals, confectionary and cosmetics.5 In Indian system of medicine, turmeric is used in stomach-ache, as a blood purifier, carminative, appetiser and tonic.5,6 Turmeric is also used in drugs against cancer, dermatitis, AIDS (Acquired Immuno-Deficiency Syndrome) and high cholesterol level.7 During the course of this study, we have synthesized silver nanoparticles using turmeric oil and characterised them using UV-vis spectroscopic analysis and checked for their antioxidant activity