Green Synthesis of Silver, Copper and Gold Nanoparticles Using Terminalia arjuna Bark and their Effect on Seed Germination

Background: Terminalia arjuna has many biological applications including synthesis of metal nanoparticles, which have no hazardous effect on the environment. We have demonstrated that metal nanoparticles synthesized using Terminalia arjuna bark can be used to enhance the germination of seeds. Methods: To evaluate the effect on germination, we treated Vigna unguiculata (black-eyed peas) seeds with copper, silver and gold nanoparticles synthesized by Terminalia arjuna bark. The synthesized metal nanoparticles were characterized by UV-spectroscopy and their size was confirmed by diffraction light scattering technique. Results: After incubation of 48 hours, the effects were observed. It was observed that Vigna unguiculata (black-eyed peas) seed showed 30% germination in silver nanoparticles solution and 70% in copper nanoparticles, whereas 0% germination was observed in gold nanoparticles. Conclusion: The results obtained in the study show that nanobiotechnology can be applied in agriculture to boost the production of crops.