Evaluation of Reciprocal Pharmaceutical Effects and Antibacterial Activity of Silver Nanoparticles and Methanolic Extract of Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) on Some Bacterial Strains

Silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) are the most prominent nanoparticles which are recognized for their high antimicrobial efficacy.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the reciprocal pharmaceutical effects and antibacterial activity of Ag-NPs and methanolic extract of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) on some bacterial strains.
For evaluation of antibacterial activity of Ag-NPs and methanolic extract of C. sativus L. (saffron) on some bacteria, agar well diffusion method was used. Minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined for saffron extract, Ag-NPs, and their combination on methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and S. pyogenes and S. epidermidis.
The combination of medium concentrations of Ag-NPs (500 μg/mL) and saffron extract (50 mg/mL) was in the optimum mode to eliminate S. epidermidis and S. pyogenes. The results showed that saffron extract, Ag-NPs, and their combined form had antibacterial effects on these bacteria.
It is suggested to evaluate the synergistic effects of active components of the extract and antimicrobial preservatives used in food, health, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.