Natural Nanoparticles: Implications for Environment and Human Health

Abstract

In the last decade, extensive studies have been conducted to understand the chemical and biological processes of nanoparticles and their effects on ecological functions and human health. This review focuses on the nature and properties of natural nanoparticles (NNPs) and their influence on the physical, chemical, and biological processes in plant–soil–water systems. The NNPs are involved directly or indirectly in numerous soil processes such as aggregate formation, nutrient retention, microbial activities, and water purification and pollution mitigation and thus affect soil/environment quality and human health. This paper is intended to provide a brief review of recent progress in related fields.

KEY WORDS:

• biogeochemical processes
• nanocolloids
• natural nanoparticles
• plant production system
• soil
• water