GREEN SYNTHESIS OF METAL NANOPARTICLES USING INDIGENOUS INDIAN MEDICINAL PLANTS: SUSTAINABLE STRATEGIES FOR ANTIMICROBIAL THERAPY AND ENVIRONMENTAL REMEDIATION
Conventional methods for metal nanoparticle synthesis involve hazardous chemicals and high energy consumption, necessitating sustainable alternatives. However, a comprehensive review focusing on indigenous Indian medicinal plants for green nanoparticle synthesis remains limited. This review summarises plant-mediated synthesismechanisms, characterisation techniques, and the pharmaceutical and environmental applications of metal nanoparticles. Phytochemical-rich plant extracts act as natural reducing and stabilising agents, producingbiocompatible nanoparticles with significant antimicrobial activity and potential for wastewater treatment andpollutant remediation. The integration of traditional Indian medicinal knowledge with green nanotechnology offersan eco-friendly and cost-effective approach for sustainable development. Future research should emphasisestandardised synthesis protocols, large-scale production, and toxicological evaluation to facilitate clinical andindustrial applications. This review supports SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).