Plant-Mediated Green Synthesis of Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications

Abstract

Plant-mediated green synthesis of nanoparticles has emerged as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional physical and chemical synthesis methods. Plant-derived phytochemicals, including flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, terpenoids, and proteins, act as natural reducing, capping, and stabilizing agents, enabling the synthesis of biocompatible metallic and metal oxide nanoparticles under mild conditions. These green-synthesized nanoparticles exhibit remarkable physicochemical properties and have demonstrated significant biomedical potential, including antimicrobial, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, drug delivery, and tissue engineering applications. In addition, their environmentally benign synthesis minimizes hazardous chemical use and energy consumption. Despite these advantages, challenges related to standardization, reproducibility, large-scale production, comprehensive toxicity assessment, and regulatory approval remain barriers to clinical translation. This review summarizes recent advances in plant-mediated nanoparticle synthesis, characterization techniques, biomedical applications, safety considerations, and future perspectives, highlighting their potential to advance sustainable nanomedicine and support the development of safe, effective, and environmentally responsible therapeutic technologies