Copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) attracted many researchers due to their potential biomedical and pharmacological activities that depend on the shape and size of the nanoparticles. Objective: To extract and characterize nanoparticles from the aqueous extract of the Artemisia maritima plant. Methods: UV-V spectroscopy indicates the presence of Cu NPs with unique optical characteristics. FTIR analysis identified functional groups and chemical bonds in the Cu NPs. XRD analysis revealed a hexagonal crystal structure for the Cu NPs. Antibacterial activity of the synthesized Cu NPs was evaluated against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphylococcus aureus. Results: The Cu NPs exhibited varying zones of inhibition (ZOI) against different bacterial strains, with the largest ZOI observed against Staphylococcus aureus (20 mm), followed by Bacillus subtilis (19 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (16 mm), and Escherichia coli (11 mm). These results highlight the potential of Artemisia maritima-synthesized Cu NPs as antimicrobial agents, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. Conclusions: Artemisia maritima-mediated Cu NPs offer a promising, green alternative for antimicrobial development, warranting further research for clinical and environmental applications.

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Despite recent advances, current chemotherapeutic options often have undesirable side effects, and the development of resistance limits their long-term effectiveness. The botanical kingdom contains a vast repository of phytochemicals with varying biological activities. This review examines the anticancer potential of various classes of plant bioactive compounds. Specific alkaloids like berberine demonstrate remarkable apoptosis induction through mitochondrial stress and caspase activation in numerous cancer cell lines. Curcumin modulates multiple oncogenic pathways, including PI3K/Akt, Wnt/β-catenin, and MAPK signaling. Resveratrol elicits favorable anti-tumor responses through intrinsic apoptosis, autophagy stimulation, and antiangiogenic effects. Promising preclinical studies have elucidated the underlying molecular mechanisms by which bioactive components such as quercetin, genistein, and epigallocatechin gallate exert chemopreventive effects. While intensive research is still required, progress in standardizing extracts, isolating marker compounds, and clinical testing validates nature's treasure as a source for novel anticancer options. Future studies should focus on overcoming translational barriers to move these promising compounds from bench to bedside.