Sustainable Fabrication and Characterization of Zinc Nanoparticles Utilizing the Medicinal Herb Stachytarpheta indica

Abstract

This study explores the green synthesis and characterization of zinc nanoparticles (ZnNPs) prepared using an aqueous leaf extract of Stachytarpheta indica. UV–Vis spectrophotometry showed a distinct absorption peak at 380 nm, confirming the formation of ZnNPs within the typical surface plasmon resonance (SPR) range. FTIR analysis revealed the presence of hydroxyl, amine, carbonyl, and polysaccharide functional groups, indicating that phenolics, flavonoids, and proteins likely played key roles in reducing and stabilizing the nanoparticles. SEM imaging showed polydisperse ZnNPs with irregular shapes and porous surface structures, reflecting a broad micro- to nanoscale size distribution and potential functional versatility. The physicochemical characteristics of the synthesized ZnNPs align well with those reported for other plant-based nanoparticle fabrication methods. Overall, the findings demonstrate that S. indica leaf extract is an effective and sustainable agent for producing stable ZnNPs with potential applications in antimicrobial and environmental fields.