Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Derived from Phyllanthus amarus Leaf Extract for Environmental and Biological Applications

Abstract

This study reports silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesis through a green, facile, and eco-friendly route using aqueous leaf extract of Phyllanthus amarus as both reducing and stabilizing agent. GCMS screening of the plant extract affirmed the presence of phytochemicals such as   flavonoids, polyphenols, and other biomolecules responsible for the reduction and stabilization of synthesized nanoparticles. The biosynthesis was confirmed with a visible color change from pale yellow to brown with UV–Visible spectroscopy indicated AgNPs formation within 400 to 450 nm. X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed three distinct peaks corresponding to (111), (200), and (220) crystal planes, while transmission electron microscopy (TEM) indicated circular-shaped particles with particle size in the range of 10.02 to 28.5 nm. The optical activity of the synthesized nanoparticles was confirmed by its ability to sense the presence of selected metals such as manganese, iron, lead, arsenic, and cadmium ions, demonstrating potential environmental applications. In addition, the as-prepared AgNPs exhibited antimicrobial effects against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The green synthesis method using P. amarus offers a low-cost and sustainable route to stable AgNPs with bi-functional properties suitable for biological and environmental applications.