A Green Approach to Silver Nanoparticle Synthesis Using Glycyrrhiza glabra to Investigations Antimicrobial Applications

Abstract

This study focuses on the green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) using Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract as a natural reducing agent. The antimicrobial potential of these nanoparticles was evaluated against a range of pathogens, including both bacteria and fungi. The synthesis process was initiated by adding Glycyrrhiza glabra root extract to a silver nitrate solution, resulting in a distinct color change from colorless to dark yellow, and eventually to black, signaling the formation of Ag-NPs. The formation and properties of the nanoparticles were further confirmed through UV–visible spectroscopy, which revealed a strong surface plasmon resonance peak at 421 nm, characteristic of Ag-NPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that the nanoparticles possessed a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure, confirmed by the observation of well-defined Bragg reflections. Additionally, Energy Dispersive x-Ray Spectroscopy (EDX) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses were performed to assess the elemental composition and morphology of the synthesized nanoparticles. EDX results confirmed the presence of silver, while SEM images revealed the presence of nanoparticle aggregates, though no distinct morphology was observed. The antimicrobial activity of the synthesized Ag-NPs was tested against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with results indicating a significantly stronger antimicrobial effect against Gram-negative bacteria. These findings highlight the promising potential of green-synthesized Ag-NPs as effective antimicrobial agents, providing a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to nanoparticle synthesis with significant implications for various biomedical applications.