EXTRACTION OF OIL FROM Luffa cylindrica L. SEEDS AND APPLICATION IN SKIN CREAM

Tóm tắt

In this study, oil was extracted from the seeds of Luffa cylindrica L. using maceration with n-hexane at various material-to-solvent ratios. The 1:5 ratio resulted in the highest oil content, yielding 53.48%. The extracted oil had a density of 0.86 g/cm³, an acid value of 41.978 mg/g, and a saponification value of 232 mg KOH/g. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed significant levels of oleic acid (27.66%) and palmitic acid (12.3%). The oil demonstrated antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, with a 7 mm inhibition zone. It was incorporated into a skin cream formulation at a concentration of 5%. The final product exhibited a non-greasy texture, good spreadability, rapid absorption, nonirritating to the skin, and microbiological safety, receiving positive feedback from consumers. These findings suggest that Luffa seed oil is a promising bio-based emollient for skincare applications.