The present invention to a material that is coated with or soaked in a suspension of a botanical extract such that particles of said natural botanical extract are in contact with, embedded on, or embedded within the material. The present invention can be used to preserve perishable substances such as edible substances or foods by extending their freshness, shelf life or suitability for consumption by living organisms. Botanical extracts suitable for the present invention include botanical extracts that have anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral or other preventative or curative properties. The botanical extract coated material described in the present invention is suitable for applications such as the packaging and preservation of perishable substances such as fruits and vegetables, meat products, dairy products, edible substances, non-edible substances and other perishable substances. Specifically, the material is impregnated with an extract of Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum).

Fenugreek impregnated material for the preservation of perishable substances

The synthesis of a silver-PMMA nanocomposite film includes mixing an aqueous extract of Trigonella foenum-graecum (also known as Helba and fenugreek) seeds with an aqueous solution of silver nitrate, thereby reducing the silver ions to silver metal nanoparticles. A solution of the silver nanoparticles is added to a solution of PMMA [poly (methyl methacrylate)] in N'N-dimethylformamide (DMF) with stirring at 90.degree. C. A light brown solution of silver colloids develops, which is cast in a glass plate and the DMF is evaporated at room temperature, leaving a silver-PMMA nanocomposite film. Testing on water shows the silver-PMMA nanocomposite film prevents or inhibits growth of microbes, suggesting use as an antimicrobial or antibacterial agent, e.g., in water purification.

trigonella lunata/אנטי בקטריאלי

Fenugreek impregnated material for the preservation of perishable substances

Synthesis of silver-PMMA nanocomposite film

המאגר השלם ביותר של צמחי מרפא המגובה על ידי המדע