Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Ocimum sanctum (Tulashi) and study of their antibacterial and antifungal activities

Abstract

In the present research program, cost effective and environment friendly silver nanoparticles were synthesized from the leaf extract of Ocimum sanctum, as reducing agent. The nanoparticles were characterized by using UV-visble, SEM and XRD methods. The absorption peak at 430 nm broadens with increase in time indicating the polydispersity nature of the nano particles. The SEM image showed relatively spherical shape nanoparticles. The XRD results suggested that the crystallization of the bio-organic phase occurs on the surface of the silver nanoparticles or vice versa. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of the nanoparticles have also been investigated.