ABSTRACT

This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and exploration of medicinal properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) derived from Hunteria umbellata seeds. The specific objectives were to obtain crude aqueous and ethanol extracts, synthesize AgNPs using these extracts, characterize the AgNPs using UV-VIS spectroscopy, FTIR analysis, SEM imaging, and XRD analysis, and assess the medicinal properties including antimicrobial and in vitro antioxidant activities. Crude aqueous and ethanol extracts of the seeds were obtained to synthesize the AgNPs. UV-VIS spectra analysis revealed distinct absorption patterns for AgNPs synthesized from both aqueous and ethanol extracts, with maximum absorbance at 550nm at 24 hours. FTIR spectra exhibited characteristic transmittance peaks, indicating the presence of functional groups involved in nanoparticle synthesis. XRD analysis confirmed the crystalline nature of AgNPs with identifiable peaks at specific planes and corresponding 2θ angles. SEM analysis provided insights into the size distribution and morphology of AgNPs, reinforcing the data from other characterization methods. Medicinal properties were assessed through DPPH radical scavenging and antimicrobial assays using MRSA, showcasing the potential biomedical applications of AgNPs. Comparative studies with standard compounds like ascorbic acid validated their efficacy.

The findings of this study suggest promising medicinal properties of AgNPs synthesized from Hunteria umbellata seeds and also contributes to the understanding of nanomedicine and underscores the potential of natural resources in synthesizing nanoparticles with significant biomedical applications.