Background: Nanotechnology, particularly the use of nanoparticles (NPs), is rapidly evolving and has the potential to transform various scientific and technological sectors. Aim: Prepration of the green synthesis and characterization of silver nanoparticles using an extract of the plant Codonopsis pilosula, and the evaluation of its antimicrobial agents. Methodology: This paper used a green synthesis approach to synthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using an aqueous extract of Codonopsis pilosula roots. It was done by taking the plant extract and mixing it with 2 mM AgNO3 solution and letting the mixture stay at 30 o C for four hours. A change of color proved the formation of AgNPs and was characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and UV-Vis spectroscopy. The FTIR analysis of the plant extract identified important functional groups used in the plant. Results: Successful preparation of spherical sized AgNPs with SEM indicating size ranges of 33.74-81.63 nm. XRD patterns were used to confirm the presence of crystalline silver compounds and a characteristic absorbance peak of 340 nm was exhibited by the UV-Vis spectroscopy. More importantly, these biosynthesized AgNPs demonstrated high levels of antibacterial activity against different pathogenic bacteria such as Acinetobacter baumanii, Escherichia coli, and most importantly, Staphylococcus aureus, by disrupting cell membranes and reactive oxygen species generation. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a greener, more affordable and biocompatible method of making metallic nanoparticles, providing a greener alternative to traditional chemical techniques of making more complex biomedical and pharmaceutical applications.

Background: Iron deficiency (ID) remains the most prevalent nutritional deficiency globally, disproportionately affecting women of reproductive age (WRA) across socioeconomic strata. Despite its high prevalence, iron deficiency with or without overt anemia is frequently underdiagnosed and suboptimally managed in primary care settings, largely because it is perceived as an episodic rather than a chronic condition. Objective: This narrative literature review aims to synthesize current evidence on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approach, and management of iron deficiency in WRA aged 16–55 years, with a focus on reconceptualizing ID as a chronic, relapsing condition. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and EMBASE using terms including "iron deficiency," "iron deficiency anemia," "women of reproductive age," "ferritin," "menstrual blood loss," and "iron supplementation." Studies published between 2017 and 2025 in English were included. Key Findings: Iron deficiency affects an estimated 30–40% of WRA globally, with menstrual blood loss identified as the most common contributing factor. Serum ferritin below 30 ng/mL remains the most sensitive diagnostic marker. Oral iron is first-line therapy; however, adherence is limited by gastrointestinal side effects. Intravenous iron formulations demonstrate superior efficacy in selected populations. Long-term monitoring and preventive strategies remain inconsistently implemented. Conclusion: Reframing iron deficiency as a chronic condition requiring longitudinal management, rather than single-episode treatment, may substantially reduce the burden of disease in this population. Structured follow-up pathways and individualized management are essential.