Synthesis and Biological Assessment of Silver Nanoparticles Using Adiantum incisum Extracts

In this study, we synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using methanolic and ethanolic extracts of Adiantum incisum and evaluated different biological activities. The transition from bright green to dark brown confirmed the synthesis of AgNPs, which was confirmed by UV-vis spectroscopy absorbance peaks between 400–500 nm. Furthermore, optimized biosynthesis by adjusting different parameters such as temperature, pH, and various salt concentrations. Similarly, the characterization of AgNPs was performed using FTIR, XRD, EDX, and SEM. FTIR revealed the presence of functional groups involved in capping and reduction. XRD confirmed the face-centered cubic crystalline structure, SEM revealed monodispersed spherical particles and EDX confirmed the presence of elemental silver. Similarly, the biological activities of plant extracts and synthesized AgNPs were evaluated. Insecticidal assays against Tribolium castaneum demonstrate that AgNPs inhibit more than plant extracts. Phytotoxicity tests against Lemna minor indicated that AgNPs possess greater phytotoxic potential and antioxidant activity assessed using the DPPH assay revealed dose-dependent radical scavenging capabilities with AgNPs showing superiority to plant extracts. The analgesic potential was evaluated using the acetic acid-induced writhing test, where AgNPs achieved a higher inhibition rate than extracts. The carrageen-induced paw edema test evaluated anti-inflammatory activity with AgNPs showing greater efficacy. Antibacterial assays against Shigella dysenteriae and Pseudomonas aureginosa to the antibacterial activity indicated that AgNPs have antibacterial potential. Antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger also showed a notable inhibition zone. These findings demonstrate that the biosynthesis of AgNPs from A. incisum extracts exhibits significant biological activities, highlighting their potential applications in pharmaceutical and agricultural fields.