Malunggay Leaves (Moringa oleifera) as an Antibacterial Soap

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Many soaps that can be purchased commercially vary in ingredients and formulations. Most of them contain unwanted chemicals that cause skin irritations. Since Malunggay also called as Moringa oleifera is known for its abundancy in vitamins and minerals, the researchers thought that it would be a good component in a soap. Based on the research, the malunggay contains a component called pterygospermin that makes it antibacterial. It also contains fats and alkali that are needed in conducting saponification.

METHODS

In the preparation of malunggay soap the following were used caustic soda lye, coconut oil and hot water, stirring rod, mortar and pestle, beaker, platform balance, container (soap mold) and graduated cylinder. Ordinary processes like heating stirring, grinding and the used of coconut oil were used. The following properties like pH level odor texture and effectiveness were tested. Respondents were used and devised rating scale to describe the properties and their preference. A pH meter was used in determining the pH level of the product. In testing the effectiveness, the cultured bacteria were used to determine how much of it was killed.

RESULTS

After the testing of its properties, the results were obtained and analyzed. The soap's pH level was concluded to be almost neutral which the same with the commercial products is. Its odor is unpleasant but tolerable but aromatic agents can be added to improve the product's odor. For the texture, the product had a neutral result, which is acceptable for a soap. The effectiveness of the soap was indicated by the 84% elimination of bacteria from a cultured setup. The cost is comparable to the commercial soaps.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the gathered data, the product's odor does not smell good, but tolerable. This is significantly different from the commercial product. The texture was acceptable for a soap compared to the commercial one. The pH level of the soap is just the same as the commercial products. Lastly, the product killed 84% of the bacteria, which means that the product is effective for a soap.