Phytogenic Silver Nanoparticles Synthesized from Acalypha indica: Antimicrobial Efficacy on Veterin

Abstract

Background: The given research paper presents the case of green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs)
out of the leaf, stem, and root extracts of Acalypha indica L. and their relative antimicrobial activity against
multidrug-resistant microorganisms of veterinary origin. Materials and Methods: The crude extracts were used
to reduce and stabilize AgNPs with the aid of phytochemical constituents, as was shown by Fourier transform
infrared analysis, which indicated that O-H, C=O, and C-O functional groups were involved in the formation of
an antimicrobial activity of the crude extracts, as well as biosynthesized AgNPs were tested in the standard disc
diffusion technique. Results: Crude extracts were found to have an intermediate antibacterial activity, with the
highest inhibitory action of the leaf extracts on Salmonella typhi (20 mm). When nanoparticles were synthesized,
an increased activity of antimicrobials was noted in all parts of the plant. The inhibition zone of AgNPs made
using leaves was 14–18 mm, stem made 10–20 mm, and root 10–12 mm, with the greatest inhibition being
exhibited against Clostridium spp. (20 mm) and S. typhi (18 mm). The enhanced activity is explained by the
synergistic effect between nanosilver and phytochemicals, resulting in the increased disruption of the membranes
and the formation of the reactive oxygen species. Conclusion: These results can be used to point to the potential
of A. indica AgNPs as environmentally friendly antimicrobial agents in veterinary practice, especially in the
treatment of infectious diseases, and achieve UN sustainable development goal (SDG) 3: Good Health and Well-
Being and SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production through the development of safe, sustainable and
biologically driven alternatives to traditional antibiotics to improve the health of humans.