Review on green nano-biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles and their biological activities: with an emphasis on medicinal plants

Since two decades ago, the concept of green chemistry has been spreading and researchers are developing greener and more sustainable methods for nanoparticles (NPs) production. The main goals are fabrication of NPs with cost-effective and straightforward methods while eliminating the use of hazardous chemicals, which are commonly used as reducing or capping agents. In this regard, many bio-sources such as fungi, yeasts, algae, bacteria, and plants have been exploited to fabricate NPs in different shape and size. In this review, authors have focused on the most recent studies for fabricating silver NPs using bio-sources with an emphasis on the role of medicinal plants. The possible applications of biosynthesized silver NPs as well as their antibacterial, cytotoxic, and antioxidant activities are also addressed and discussed. Finally, future aspects and current limitations for bio-synthesized AgNPs are mentioned.