A Green Approach to Phytomediated Silver Based Nanoparticles Using Rhizome Extract of Acorus Calamus (Linn) And Their Antibacterial Activity

Abstract

Introduction: the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has garnered considerable attention due to their diverse applications in medicine, catalysis, and electronics. However, the conventional methods for AgNP synthesis often involve the use of hazardous chemicals and energy-intensive processes, raising environmental concerns. In response to this, there is a growing interest in developing sustainable and green approaches for nanoparticle synthesis, utilizing plant extracts as reducing and stabilizing agents.Acorus calamus (Linn), commonly known as sweet flag, has been recognized for its pharmacological properties and bioactive compounds. The rhizome extract of Acorus calamus, rich in phytochemicals, presents an intriguing opportunity for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. This study aims to explore a novel eco-friendly approach to phytomediated synthesis, utilizing the reducing potential of Acorus calamus (Linn) rhizome extract for the fabrication of silver nanoparticles.

Objectives: objective of this research is to investigate the potential of Acorus calamus as a green and sustainable source for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Additionally, the study will delve into the antibacterial activity of these nanoparticles, assessing their efficacy against various pathogenic microorganisms. The eco-friendly synthesis and antibacterial properties of Acorus calamus-mediated silver nanoparticles hold promise for the development of environmentally benign and effective antibacterial agents, contributing to the advancement of green nanotechnology and sustainable materials.

Methods: Acorus calamus (Linn) rhizomes were harvested, cleaned, dried, and ground into a fine powder. Phytochemicals were extracted using an eco-friendly solvent, and the resulting extract was utilized for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. The reduction of silver ions was achieved by gradually adding the rhizome extract to a silver nitrate solution, with the reaction monitored until nanoparticle stabilization. Characterization using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, and TEM confirmed the successful synthesis, revealing the nanoparticles' size, morphology, and crystalline nature. The antibacterial activity of these green-synthesized silver nanoparticles was evaluated against pathogenic strains (e.g., Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus) using standard assays, including agar well diffusion and microdilution methods. Statistical analysis was performed to ascertain the significance of the antibacterial results, highlighting the potential of Acorus calamus-mediated silver nanoparticles as effective and environmentally friendly antibacterial agents, thus contributing to the advancement of green nanotechnology and sustainable materials.

Results:The synthesized silver nanoparticles exhibited notable antibacterial activity against pathogenic strains, including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Agar well diffusion assays revealed distinct zones of inhibition, indicative of the nanoparticles' efficacy in restraining bacterial growth. Microdilution assays further supported these findings, with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) demonstrating the potency of Acorus calamus-mediated silver nanoparticles against the tested bacterial strains.

Conclusions: The rapid formation and nucleation of AgNPs were evident, indicated by a color shift from light yellow to brownish yellow. This observed color change is attributed to the surface plasmon vibration effect and the conversion of Ag+ ions to Ag[o] in aqueous samples, providing explanation for the presence of the brown color. The findings underscore the biogenic synthesis process but also the multifaceted properties of AgNPs synthesized using Acorus calamus rhizome extract,