Generally biological synthesis of nanoparticles has a large number of biomedical applications because it is safe and eco-friendly in nature. Beta vulgaris (Beetroot) is a fruit, rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. This study demonstrated the phytochemical analysis, synthesis of selenium nanoparticles and the antimicrobial activity of aqueous fruit extract of B. vulgaris. Phytochemical studies were carried out using standard procedures. Biosynthesized SeNPs by B. vulgaris fruit extract were confirmed by visual detection, UV–Visible spectrophotometer and characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Energy dispersive spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infra-red spectroscopy and X-ray diffractor was used to confirm the formation, nature, morphology, size and shape of the nanoparticles. Agar well diffusion method was used for the antimicrobial activity. Phytochemical
analyses of B. vulgaris fruit extract revealed the presence of saponins, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, and phenol which act as both reducing and potential stabilizing agents in the synthesis of SeNPs. UV-visible spectrophotometer revealed the surface plasmon resonance peak at 350 nm within a broad band range of 300 – 400 nm. The SeNPs are crystallographic, spherical and having size range from 20–100 nm. Esters, amino acids, hydroxyl, aldehyde, and carboxylic acid were present and responsible for the synthesis of SeNPs. The biosynthesized SeNPs
showed activity against the test pathogens and the zone of inhibition ranged between 9 - 25 mm. In conclusion, B. vulgaris fruit extract can be used for the synthesis of SeNPs with potent antimicrobial activity on fungal and bacteria.