A review on plant extract mediated green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles and their biomedical applications

Abstract

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) exhibit distinctive characteristics, making them highly sought-after in many sectors. Nevertheless, conventional techniques for producing ZnO-NPs are linked to environmental and health hazards due to toxic substances. In this review, we study zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized from plant extracts and their subsequent biomedical uses in detail. Research shows that several different plant extracts are employed in manufacturing ZnO nanoparticles. Leaves, fruits, seeds, roots, and complete plants are all included in these extracts. Phytochemicals such as phenolic compounds, alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids are all a part of these biological matrices. compounds show bioreduction mechanism, act as stabilizing and reducing agent. The attributes of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs), including their size, shape, and crystallinity, may be altered by adjusting the plant extract variety, concentration, and synthesis conditions. Consequently, the formed nanoparticles display notable diversity in their physical and chemical characteristics, subsequently impacting their biological functionality. The biomedical uses of ZnO nanoparticles manufactured using green methods are extensive, including beneficial effects such as antibacterial activity against various pathogens, anti-inflammatory characteristics, and possible anticancer activities. Nanoparticles have been integrated into wound dressings, used as carriers for medication delivery, and utilized in biosensing and imaging applications. The enhanced biocompatibility and reduced toxicity of green-processed zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) techniques, in comparison to those made using conventional approaches, make them very appealing for use in biomedical contexts. Moreover, the paper examines the synthesis mechanisms, explicitly focusing on the involvement of phytochemicals in the processes of reduction and stabilization. Additionally, this study emphasizes the difficulties and potential future directions in optimizing synthesis processes, increasing manufacturing capacity, and facilitating the therapeutic use of these nanoparticles.