Recent research led by Tasnim Ashfia from the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, has unveiled promising applications for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized from the petals of Hibiscus sabdariffa, commonly known as roselle. Published in the journal Open Agriculture, this study highlights the potential of plant biomass as a sustainable and environmentally friendly source for producing nanoparticles, which are increasingly used in various industries, including medicine, agriculture, and food preservation.
The study found that the AgNPs created from hibiscus petals exhibit significant antibacterial, antioxidant, and antibiofilm properties. These nanoparticles were confirmed through a surface plasmon resonance peak at 421 nm, indicating successful synthesis. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques provided insights into the particles’ size and morphology, crucial factors for their effectiveness in applications.
One of the standout findings is the antioxidant activity of the synthesized AgNPs, particularly in scavenging DPPH radicals, where they demonstrated an impressive IC50 value of 37.71 ± 0.07 μg/ml. This suggests that these nanoparticles could be harnessed in health and wellness products aimed at combating oxidative stress, a contributor to various chronic diseases.
Moreover, the antibacterial effects of the AgNPs were notable, as they effectively inhibited the growth of pathogenic bacteria such as Shigella dysenteriae, Shigella boydii, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. Remarkably, the study showed that biofilm formation by E. coli was completely suppressed at concentrations of 40 and 80 g/ml of AgNPs over a 96-hour period. This property could have significant implications in medical settings, particularly in developing coatings for medical devices or surfaces that prevent bacterial colonization and infection.
Ashfia remarked on the findings, stating, “The overall findings confirmed that the AgNPs prepared from Hibiscus Sabdariffa petal extract can be used as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibiofilm preparations.” This opens up avenues for industries focused on food safety, healthcare, and even cosmetics, where natural and effective antimicrobial agents are in high demand.
As the world increasingly seeks greener alternatives to traditional chemical methods, the synthesis of nanoparticles from plant extracts offers a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution. The commercial potential for these AgNPs could lead to innovations in product formulations across multiple sectors, from pharmaceuticals to agricultural biopesticides, paving the way for sustainable practices that benefit both consumers and the environment.
This research not only contributes to the growing body of knowledge regarding the use of plant biomass in nanotechnology but also emphasizes the importance of exploring natural resources for developing advanced materials. The study’s findings are a testament to the potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa as a valuable resource in the burgeoning field of green nanotechnology, as highlighted in the publication Open Agriculture.
