Pharmacognosy of adaptogens: Herbs for stress and immunomodulation

Abstract

The increasing interest in sustainable practices has spurred the development of environmentally friendly methods for nanoparticle synthesis, among which green synthesis using medicinal plants stands out as a promising approach. This mini-review explores the utilization of medicinal plants in the synthesis of nanoparticles, highlighting the benefits of biocompatibility, effectiveness, and environmental safety. Medicinal plants, rich in phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, serve as effective reducing and stabilizing agents, facilitating the reduction of metal salts into nanoparticles. This method not only minimizes the use of toxic chemicals and solvents but also aligns with the principles of green chemistry, promoting environmental sustainability. The biocompatibility of these green-synthesized nanoparticles renders them suitable for pharmaceutical applications, including drug delivery systems, antimicrobial agents, and antioxidant therapies. The therapeutic properties of plant-derived nanoparticles, such as enhanced drug solubility, stability, and bioavailability, make them particularly useful for targeted cancer therapies and alternative antimicrobial treatments. However, challenges such as large-scale production, characterization, and standardization of synthesis techniques remain, necessitating further research. In vivo studies are essential to fully understand the pharmacokinetics and long-term effects of these nanoparticles. Despite these hurdles, green synthesis of nanoparticles represents an exciting advancement in pharmacology, offering a safer, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable approach for developing new pharmaceutical treatments.