101: Green synthesis of nanoparticles using Afzelia africana and Bombax glabra plant leaves for sustainable healthcare applications

Abstract: Nigeria accounts for nearly one-third of global malaria deaths, with children under five being the most vulnerable. Every year, about 55 million malaria cases and almost 90,000 deaths are recorded, yet 70% of Nigeria’s medicines are imported. This pharmaceutical dependence, coupled with fragile distribution systems and high costs, limits access to life-saving treatments. Green chemistry offers a pathway to address this challenge. Africa has over 45,000 plant species, yet fewer than 5% have been scientifically investigated, despite evidence that most are non-toxic. In this study, novel silver and copper nanoparticles were synthesized using aqueous extracts of Afzelia africana and Bombax glabra leaves as reducing agents. The extracts were reacted with AgNO3 and CuSO4.5H2O under controlled conditions at 70 °C, and nanoparticle formation was monitored at varying time intervals, concentrations, pH values, and extract-to-metal salt ratios. Characterization was performed using UV���Vis spectrophotometry, FTIR, XRD, and SEM, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated using pour and surface plate methods. Results showed that nanoparticle formation increased with time, concentration, and pH, but decreased with higher extract ratios. FTIR confirmed phytochemical involvement in reduction, XRD revealed crystalline Silver (Ag) and Copper (Cu) nanoparticles at 2θ values of 38.18° and 45.05°, and SEM indicated amorphous morphologies. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated strong activity, with bimetallic nanoparticles being most effective. These findings demonstrate the potential of Afzelia africana and Bombax glabra as eco-friendly reducing agents for nanoparticle synthesis with significant therapeutic applications. Harnessing such plants through community-based formulation hubs could reduce medicine costs, improve access, and strengthen healthcare systems in Africa.