Paper Details

PJB-2025-60

Plant-based synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles from Kalanchoe pinnata leaves: a sustainable approach to antimicrobial nanomedicine

Sadia Sheraz, Waliullah Khan, Khushbakht Asad, Manal Hadi Ghaffoori Kanaan, Muhammad Salman Khan, Dilawar Farhan Shams, Abdur Rahim, Ikram Ullah, Farooq Ahmad and Farhad Badshah
Abstract

---

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) were successfully synthesized using Kalanchoe pinnata, member of the family Crassulaceae, leaf extract and zinc acetate as a precursor. This green synthesis method addresses the need for eco-friendly nanoparticle production and explores the potential of K. pinnata. UV–Vis analysis showed a surface plasmon resonance peak at 347 nm. FTIR confirmed the presence of biomolecules on the nanoparticle surface. SEM and particle size analysis revealed ZnONPs in the range of 50–120 nm, While EDX and XRD confirmed their elemental composition and crystalline structure, respectively. The synthesized ZnONPs exhibited strong antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activities. Notably, they showed higher efficacy than plant extract alone, with the strongest antifungal effect against Aspergillus niger and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli. These results suggest that K. pinnata mediated ZnONPs have significant biomedical potential. Future research should clarify the molecular mechanisms of K. pinnata mediated ZnONP synthesis, undertake comprehensive in vitro and in vivo toxicity studies, and optimize scalable production with stability assessments. Additionally, investigating controlled‑release formulations and synergistic effects with standard therapeutics will enhance their potential for practical biomedical applications

To Cite this article: Sheraz, S., W. Khan, K. Asad, M. Hadi G. Kanaan, M.S. Khan, D.F. Shams, A. Rahim, I. Ullah, F. Ahmad and F. Badshah. 2026. Plant-based synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles from Kalanchoe pinnata leaves: a sustainable approach to antimicrobial nanomedicine. Pak. J. Bot., 58(2): DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.30848/PJB2026-2(15)  
Download PDF