Green Nanotechnology: Role of Medicinal Plants in the Eco-Friendly Synthesis of Functional Nanoparticles

Abstract

Green-synthesized nanoparticles (GSNPs) are green, sustainable, and biocompatible nanomaterials that combine the concepts of nanotechnology and green chemistry. Plant-based bioactive compounds are used to produce nanoparticles because they reduce toxic reagents and enhance environmental safety. The review is a broad discussion of the biological synthesis-based processes with emphasis on the role of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolics, in the reduction, stabilization, and capping of nanoparticles. In addition, it talks about the criteria used to select medicinal plants, focusing on the diversity of bioactive compounds, availability, sustainability, and the traditional therapeutic worth of the medicinal plants. Another aspect that is highlighted in the paper is the structure-function relationships of phytochemicals and how they affect nanoparticle size, morphology, and stability. The current developments in comprehending the biomedical, antimicrobial, and therapeutic uses of GSNPs are discussed, and their possible limitations and future opportunities are examined. Overall, the above review highlights the potential of green-synthesized nanoparticles as environmentally-friendly, cost-efficient and all-purpose nanoparticles, which can be utilized across medicine, agriculture, and environmental remediation.