Abstract

One of the significant goals in nanotechnology is producing nanoparticles with the ability to control and reduce costs and environmental pollutions. Recently, production of nanoparticles using living biological systems has resulted in creation of a new branch of nanotechnology. Silver nanoparticles are among the most widely used nanoparticles. This study aimed to produce silver nanoparticles using Matricaria chamomilla and to evaluate its antibacterial and antifungal effects. First Matric aria chamomilla extract was prepared by boiling. Then, reaction occurred in the dark and in room temperature by placing the extract in the vicinity of 20mM silver nitrate. Physicochemical properties of the produced nanoparticles were explored using a spectrophotometer device and an electron microscope. Eventually, the antibacterial and antifungal properties of these nanoparticles were evaluated. After the study of the spectrum of UV-Vis and electron microscope it was found out that Matricaria chamomilla is capable of producing silver nanoparticles in extracellular form with range of 60 to 65 nm and with different morphologies. It was also found out that these nanoparticles have good antibacterial and antifungal properties against the bacteria and yeast that were used in this study. Matricaria chamomilla is a reducing agent that is suitable and compatible with environment for producing nanoparticles. © 2015, Scientific Publishers of India. All rights reserved.