Green synthesis of Magnesium oxide nanoparticles from peel of Carica papaya and analysis for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial potential

Abstract

Carica papaya is sometimes known as paw paw which is a fast growing herbaceous plant, it belongs to the Caricaceae family and it contains the proteolytic enzymes papain and chymopapain which are active compounds in breaking down or digesting protein. The extract was mixed with distilled water, treated with magnesium nitrate, centrifuged, and dried at 50°C overnight. UV analysis showed a peak at 302.5 nm, while SEM revealed spherical, flower-like MgO NPs. IR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of OH groups, carbon, and water. The nanoparticles exhibited low anti-inflammatory activity (40% inhibition) and mild antimicrobial effects, demonstrating the potential of papaya peel in green synthesis of MgO NPs with moderate biological properties. The extract concentration influenced the size and morphology of the nanoparticles. The synthesis method was simple, cost-effective, and eco-friendly. Bioactive compounds in the extract likely facilitated nanoparticle formation by acting as reducing and stabilizing agents. Additionally, the process avoided the use of toxic chemicals, making it suitable for sustainable nanomaterial production. Despite modest biological activity, the approach shows promise for further development in biomedical or environmental applications.