Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Sambucus ebulus leaves extract: Characterization, quantitative analysis of bioactive molecules, antioxidant and antibacterial activities

Sambucus ebulus is a well-known medicinal plant used as a traditional medicine due to its bioactive compound contents. The importance of nanotechnology has increased recently since it has effective and widespread usage areas. In this study, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs@Se) were synthesized using S. ebulus leaf extract and their structures were clarified by spectroscopic analyses including FTIR, UV–Vis, and XRD. The morphology and particle size of AgNPs@Se were determined by SEM analysis. Quantitative analysis of bioactive compounds of S. ebulus leaf extract was defined by HPLC analysis. Antioxidant activity of extract and AgNPs@Se was executed by DPPH•, ABTS•+, and FRAP assays. The antibacterial activity of AgNPs was carried out using agar well diffusion and microdilution broth methods. Quantitative analysis of bioactive compounds in S. ebulus leaf extract was established by HPLC. The average particle size of nanoparticles was calculated as 18.6 nm. Isoquercitrin was found as a major product. AgNPs@Se displayed excellent antioxidant activity, but they revealed a moderate antibacterial effect. The structure of nanoparticles was assigned as a face center cubic unit cell. Hence, nanoparticles could be a favorable agent for the pharmaceutical and food industry