Rapid Biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles using Cymbopogan citratus (Lemongrass) and its Antimicrobial Activity

Abstract

The present study deals with the rapid green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using fresh leaves of Cymbopogan Citratus (Lemongrass). Silver nanoparticles were formed within 8~10 minutes by microwave irradiation using aqueous solution of AgNO3 (1 mM) with fresh leaves extract of Cymbopogan Citratus. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by using UV-visible spectrophotometer analysis, nanoparticle tracking analyzer, transmission electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray spectra. The antibacterial activity of these nanoparticles was studied against multiple drug resistant hospital isolates of E.coli, S.aureus, P.mirabilis and hospital isolates of S. typhi, K.pnuemoniae. Also, the antifungal activity of these nanoparticles was studied against C.albicans (hospital isolate) and A.niger (NCIM 616). The synergistic effect of silver nanoparticles along with antibiotics was also studied against multiple drug resistant hospital isolates and found to be effective. The extracellular synthesis of Silver nanoparticles using leaves of Cymbopogan Citratus appears to be rapid and eco-friendly.