Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of silver nanoparticles synthesized using aqueous extract of Moringa stenopetala leaves

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is non-toxic and eco-friendly than commonly used physicochemical methods. The study focuses on synthesis, characterization, antibacterial and antioxidant activity of AgNPs synthesized using aqueous extract of Moringa stenopetala (M. stenopetala) leaves. Optimum heating time required for the preparation of aqueous extract of M. stenopetala leaves was 15 min. It was found that 90 ml of 1 mM of silver nitrate solution and 15 ml of aqueous extract of M. stenopetala leaves were more favorable for maximum production of AgNPs with a yield of 97.14%. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrum of synthesized AgNPs shows a peak at 412 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectral analysis indicated involvement of -C=O, -O-H, and -N-H in the formation of AgNPs. X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern showed the face centered cubic (FCC) structure of AgNPs with average particle size of 11.44 nm. Synthesized AgNPs showed stronger antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli than Staphylococcus aureus and has better antioxidant activity than standard ascorbic acid.