Formulation of silver nanoparticles from the leaves extract of Vernonia amygdalina

Abstract

Background: Nanoparticles are small particles that range in size from 1 to 100 nm. Vernonia amygdalina belongs to the family of Asteraceae and it has been used traditionally to treat malaria, typhoid fever, microbial infections, diabetes mellitus, infertility and gastrointestinal disorders. The aim of this research was to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) from the leaves extract of Vernonia amygdalina and to evaluate the antioxidant and antibacterial effects of the nanoparticles. Method: The silver nanoparticles were synthesized using green method and the particles were evaluated using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The free radical scavenging effects of the AgNPs and extract were analyzed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. The antibacterial effect of the leaves extract and the AgNPs were determined by disk diffusion method on Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Results: SEM analysis of the formulated nanoparticles revealed a poly-dispersed spherical shaped nanoparticle with particle size of 70-90 nm. The DPPH assay revealed IC50 values of 2.80, 2.10 and 5.20 mg/mL for the leaves extract, silver nanoparticles and ascorbic acid respectively. The X-ray diffraction of the nanoparticles revealed a crystalline and polymorphic molecular structure and also confirmed that they are composed of biomolecular compounds which were responsible for the reduction of silver ions. Conclusion: Silver nanoparticles were formulated using Vernonia amygdalina leaves extract. The formulated nanoparticles possessed significant antibacterial and antioxidant effects and also have potential pharmaceutical applications.&nbsp