Characterization and Evaluation of the Antibacterial Activity of Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized by Green Method Using Phyllanthus emblica Leaf Extract

Abstract

Green synthesis of nanoparticles is a more eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to physical and chemical approaches of synthesis. Using medicinal herbs like Phyllanthus emblica can improve the therapeutic potential of manufactured nanoparticles. While numerous plant extracts have been utilized to synthesize silver nanoparticles, few investigations have focused on Phyllanthus emblica leaf extracts. The primary goal of this study was to produce silver nanoparticles from Phyllanthus emblica leaf extract and assess their structural characteristics and antibacterial activity. Silver Nitrate is used as metal precursor and Phyllanthus emblica is used as reducing and stabilizing agent. After a visual colour shift from yellow to brown, the formation was verified by Ultraviolet-Visible spectroscopy. It was then further described using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to determine the functional group's involvement and the Agar well diffusion method to assess its antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. A far-off Surface Plasmon Resonance peak at about 440 nm was visible in the Ultraviolet-Visible Spectroscopy, indicating the production of Silver Nanoparticles. Hydroxyl (O–H), carbonyl or aromatic (C=O or C=C) and metal ligands (Ag–O or Ag–N) functional groups were detected by Fourier Transform Infrared Radiation analysis, suggesting their role in the production and stabilization of silver nanoparticles. The produced silver nanoparticle demonstrated significant antibacterial action, particularly against bacteria that are Gram-negative. These results demonstrate the potential of silver nanoparticles mediated by Phyllanthus emblica as strong antibacterial agents. The objective of this study was to synthesize silver nanoparticles using Phyllanthus emblica leaf extract, characterize them using standard techniques, and evaluate their antibacterial potential against selected bacterial strains.