Efficacy of Different Herbal Sources for Silver Nanoparticle Biosynthesis and its Advantages in Oral Care: A Comprehensive Narrative Review

Abstract

Oral diseases affect 3.5 billion people globally, with antimicrobial resistance and adverse effects of conventional treatments necessitating novel therapeutic approaches. Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using medicinal plants represents a promising strategy combining nanotechnology with traditional herbal medicine for oral healthcare applications. Comparative analysis of major herbal sources reveals substantial variations in AgNP synthesis parameters and therapeutic efficacy. Green tea (Camellia sinensis) demonstrates rapid synthesis (10-20 minutes), the smallest particle size (10-40 nm), and exceptional antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans (MIC 2-8 μg/mL). Neem (Azadirachta indica) exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial efficacy with superior anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) shows outstanding anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic activities. Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) demonstrates exceptional antifungal activity against Candida albicans (MIC 4-10 μg/mL). Comparative evaluation reveals synergistic integration of AgNP antimicrobial effects with inherent phytochemical therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticariogenic, and wound healing activities. These biosynthesized AgNPs demonstrate applications across preventive dentistry, periodontal therapy, endodontics, restorative dentistry, and oral medicine. Herbal-mediated AgNP synthesis offers sustainable, cost-effective production of biocompatible nanoparticles with multifaceted therapeutic advantages for oral care. Selection of optimal herbal sources depends on specific clinical applications, with standardization protocols and comprehensive clinical validation required for successful translation into commercial products.