Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of biosynthesized silver nanoparticles from Ulmus Wallichiana planch. Leaf extract

Abstract

Eco-friendly synthesis of metal nanoparticles using plant extract plays a vital role in nanotechnology. This study aimed to produce silver nanoparticles (SNPs) in an eco-friendly manner using leaf extract of Ulmus wallichiana Planch. When the leaf extract was treated with AgNO3, the colour changed from yellowish to dark brown, indicated the formation of SNPs. The obtaining SNPs were pre-dominantly spherical, crystalline and a mean size of 54 nm. FTIR spectrum evidenced that plant’s biomolecules acted as reducing agent. The antibacterial activity of SNPs was assessed against Gram positive (Staphyllococcus aureus) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae) bacteria and highest activity was found to be exerted at 1 mg/mL SNPs against P. aeruginosa (17.63 mm). They also showed profound antioxidant activity against DPPH. Ulmus mediated synthesis of SNPs is eco-friendly, non-toxic and cost effective with good antibacterial and antioxidant effect and can be used in biomedical applications.