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The use of different parts of plants for the synthesis of nanoparticles is considered as a green technology as it does not involve any harmful chemicals. Herein, we report on rapid biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (SNPs) from aqueous stem bark extract of Cochlospermum religiosum a medicinal plant. The reduced silver nanoparticles were characterized by using UV-Visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray analysis, atomic force microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR). The UV-Visible spectrum of the aqueous medium containing silver nanoparticles showed an absorption peak at around 445 nm, XRD showed that the particles are crystalline in nature, with a face-centered cubic structure and the SEM images showed that the spherical-shaped silver nanoparticles were observed and the size range was found to be 20-35 nm. FT-IR spectroscopy analysis revealed that carbohydrate, polyphenols, and protein molecules were involved in the synthesis and capping of silver nanoparticles. These phytosynthesized SNPs were tested for their antimicrobial activity and it analyzed by measuring the inhibitory zone. Cochlospermum religiosum aqueous stem bark extract of SNPs showed highest toxicity to Staphylococcus followed by Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli and Bacillus and lowest toxicity towards Proteus. Whereas in fungal species highest inhibition zone against Aspergillus flavus followed by Rhizopus, Fusarium, and Curvularia, and minimum inhibition zone was observed against Aspergillus niger species. The outcome of this study could be useful for the development of value added products from indigenous medicinal plants of India for nanotechnology-based biomedical applications.

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Anthra, an organization of women veterinary scientists working in the field of livestock production and development, has been involved since 1996 in a research project to document and validate local ethnoveterinary and animal management practices carried out by livestock-rearing communities in different parts of the states of Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra in India. Communal knowledge and innovation are an integral part of the day-to-day healing and management practices of farmers in all areas and over 80% of farmers continue to use these because they are easily and quickly available, especially in remote villages. However, this knowledge is today rapidly being lost. Farmers, both men and women, have expressed a keen desire to increase their own knowledge of these systems. This paper outlines the validation framework evolved by Anthra, wherein farmers using these medicines are actively participating in an evaluation process. Major findings are that local practices are effective, participating farmers use them confidently and other farmers are keen to use and increase their knowledge of them.

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