Eucalyptus benthamii Maiden et Cambage: Nanoparticles from Extract and Essential Oil

Abstract

Eucalyptus benthamii essential oil is rich in α-pinene and offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. This study focused on synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and essential oil nanoparticles (EoNPs) from E. benthamii. AgNPs were created by adding AgNO3 to an aqueous extract of E. benthamii leaves, indicated by a color change. EoNPs were formed by interfacial deposition of preformed polymer. The nanoparticles were analyzed for size, zeta potential and morphology using Zetasizer Nano® and Field Emission Gun – Scanning Electron Microscope (FEG-SEM). Cytotoxicity was evaluated in 3T3 fibroblasts using the MTT assay. The results showed a zeta potential of -20.5 ± 2.23 mV and an average size of 137.7 ± 17.25 nm, and decreased cell viability at concentrations of 6.25% to 50%. The EoNPs had an average diameter of 146.0 ± 6.71 nm, a zeta potential of -20.9 ± 0.854 mV, and stimulated fibroblast growth at lower concentrations. The study demonstrates the effective and eco-friendly synthesis of bioactive nanoparticles using E. benthamii extract and essential oil, highlighting their potential benefits in skincare.