Green-synthesized silver nanoparticles from Boesenbergia rotunda incorporated into gauze for controlled release and inhibition of drug-resistant wound pathogens

Antibiotic resistance significantly limits treatment options for wound infections caused by Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are emerging as effective antimicrobial agents. AgNPs were synthesized via a green method using Boesenbergia rotunda extract as a bio-reductant. Characterization was performed using UV–Vis spectroscopy, particle size analysis, zeta potential, FESEM-EDX, XRD, and FTIR. Antibacterial activity was assessed by microdilution, and AgNPs were applied to gauze by immersion for 1–5 days. Silver release kinetics and antibacterial performance were evaluated by the Higuchi model, disc diffusion, and shaker methods. The synthesized AgNPs exhibited a plasmon peak at 440 nm. The particles had an average size of 116.6 nm, a polydispersity index of 0.54, and a zeta potential of –38.7 mV. Antibacterial evaluation using broth microdilution exhibited that AgNPs possesses the activity with MIC value of 250 µg/mL against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Optimal silver–gauze interaction occurred after 3 days of immersion, and silver release followed Higuchi kinetics. Coated gauze demonstrated enhanced antibacterial activity, particularly against MRSA. B. rotunda -derived AgNPs effectively inhibit resistant pathogens and can be applied as antibacterial wound dressings, offering a promising strategy for preventing drug-resistant wound infections.