Green Synthesis of Selenium Nanoparticles Using Aporosa Cardiosperma Leaf Extract: Antimicrobial Potential, Dye Degradation, and In Vivo Toxicity Assessment

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) were synthesized using the medicinal plant Aporosa cardiosperma. UV-visible spectroscopy revealed the λ_max for the surface plasmon resonance peak at 240 and 410 nm with a bandgap of 2.3 eV. Dynamic light scattering showed SeNPs had an average size of 160.4 nm. The zeta potential was −39.2 mV, indicating excellent stability. Images obtained with the FE-SEM and HR-TEM microscopes revealed that SeNPs were spherical and rod-shaped. SeNPs showed strong in vitro antibacterial activity, notably higher zone of inhibition (22.67 ± 0.33 mm) against Klebsiella pneumoniae at a concentration of 100 µg/mL. Under UV and sunlight irradiation, the SeNPs showed efficient photocatalytic degradation of anionic and cationic dyes. SeNPs reduced plant growth in a dose and time-dependent manner. At 1000 mg/L, growth decreased. At 100 mg/L, no significant change was observed in Vigna radiata. Using the animal model of Artemia salina for toxicity evaluation, SeNPs demonstrated LC₅₀ values of 1174.9 mg/L and morphological and cellular damage at higher concentrations. Consequently, SeNPs beneficial multifunctional properties could be employed to fight infectious diseases. The results highlight the remarkable range and effectiveness of SeNPs for environmental applications. SeNPs toxicity assessment ensures that nanoparticles are safe for the environment and human health.