LITERATUR REVIEW : VARIATIONS IN CONCENTRATION OF CITRONELLA OIL AND QUALITY TEST IN MANUFACTURING HAND AND BODY LOTION

Abstract

Lemongrass (Cymbopogen nardus L.) has become a leading essential oil-porducing plantation commodity in Indonesia, with the largest lemongrass plantation area located in the Aceh Province. Despite Indonesia being the world’s second largest producer of lemongrass oil or commonly known as citronella oil, a majority of the oil is exported in crude form, while a small portion is utilized domestically or imported as pure oil at a higher price. Enhancing the value of citronella oil can be achieved through the isolation of its active compounds, such as citronellal, geraniol, and citronellol, which possess bioactive properties as mosquito repellents and are capable of inhibiting specific bacterial activities. Direct application of lemongrass essential oil on the skin is less effective due to its volatile nature, hence it can be formulated into hand and body lotions as a skin moisturizer and to enhance its disinctive aroma. This research aims to determine the effect of citronella oil in hand and body lotion production, focusing on concentration variations in the formulation. The study utilizes a systematic literature revie method to evaluate the concentration variations of citronella oil in hand and body lotions. Various studies present differing outcomes regarding the optimal concentration if citronella oil in hand and body lotions. Research findings indicated that varying concentrations of citronella oil affect the lotion’s quality, including pH levels, viscosity, and their impact on the skin. Although different concentrations yield varying characteristics, most studies suggest that the highest concentration, rangin from 6% to 15%, tends to produce desired results such as high spreadability, normal pH, and the distinctive aroma of lemongrass. Based on these research findings, it is concluded that the concentration of lemongrass oil in hand and body lotion formulations significantly impacts product quality. Recommendations from this study advocate for the application of the highest concentration of citronella oil in lotion formulations to achieve the desired characteristics.