ECO-FRIENDLY SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLES DERIVED FROM ZANTHOXYLUM ARMATUM SEEDS WITH BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS

The present study focuses on the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Zanthoxylum armatum seed extract, emphasizing an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach. The phytochemicals present in the seed extract act as natural reducing and stabilizing agents, facilitating the formation of ZnO nanoparticles without the need for toxic chemicals. The successful synthesis of ZnO NPs was confirmed and characterized using a range of analytical techniques. Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) analysis indicated the average particle size and distribution, while X-ray Diffraction (XRD) confirmed the crystalline nature and phase purity of the nanoparticles. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis identified functional groups responsible for the reduction and capping of the nanoparticles. UV-Visible spectroscopy revealed a characteristic absorption peak, validating the formation of ZnO NPs. The antioxidant potential of the synthesized nanoparticles was evaluated using standard free radical scavenging assays, indicating significant antioxidant activity, likely attributed to the bioactive compounds from the plant extract adhered to the nanoparticle surface. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of the ZnO NPs was assessed against selected gram-positive and gram-negative bacterial strains, showing promising results with effective inhibition zones. These findings suggest that ZnO nanoparticles synthesized using Zanthoxylum armatum seed extract possess strong antioxidant and antibacterial properties, making them suitable for potential biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. This study highlights the synergistic role of plant-based synthesis in nanotechnology, offering a sustainable alternative for nanoparticle fabrication with enhanced biological functionalities.