Sunlight based irradiation strategy for rapid green synthesis of highly stable silver nanoparticles using aqueous garlic (Allium sativum) extract and their antibacterial potential

► We report green synthetic route for the production crystalline silver nanoparticles using garlic as both reducing and stabilizing agent. ► Synthesis has been achieved by exposing the solution mixture of [Ag(NH3)2]+ and aqueous garlic extract under sunlight. ► Role of light in the synthesis process has been investigated and is discussed in detail. ► The antibacterial effect of the synthesized silver nanoparticles has been assessed against both Gram classes of bacteria. ► Synthesized silver colloidal solutions were found to be stable for a very long period and retained their bactericidal potential.