Journal of Health Management and Pharmacy Exploration

Analysis of knowledge and attitudes toward the practice of using whitening creams among female adolescents at SMA negeri 1 binongko

2026-03-08T12:06:51+00:00

The use of facial whitening creams among adolescent girls is often carried out without adequate understanding of the active ingredients contained in the products, including the risks of hazardous substances such as mercury and hydroquinone. Lack of attention to cosmetic product legality has contributed to the widespread use of products without official distribution permits. This research was conducted to examine the levels of knowledge and attitudes related to the practice of using whitening cream among female students at SMA Negeri 1 Binongko. This research employed a quantitative observational method with a descriptive analytic approach and a cross-sectional design. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling based on predetermined inclusion criteria. The sample consisted of 56 students calculated using the Slovin formula. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire that had been tested for validity using Pearson correlation and reliability using Cronbach’s Alpha. Data were processed using chi-square analysis with SPSS version 27 software. The results showed that most respondents had a low level of knowledge (76.8%), but demonstrated high positive attitudes (87.5%) and good practices in using whitening cream (76.8%). The chi-square test indicated no significant relationship between knowledge and practice (p = 0.989), while a significant relationship was found between attitude and practice (p = 0.001). This study suggests the need for continuous educational programs in schools to enhance adolescents’ awareness of the importance of choosing safe and legally registered cosmetic products. Further research is recommended to explore additional factors such as social media influence, family roles, and psychological aspects in decision-making related to cosmetic use.

Effectiveness of extract and fraction of robusta coffee beans (Coffea canephora) against streptozotosin-nicotinamide induced blood glucose levels of male white mice

2025-12-30T14:50:22+00:00

Robusta coffee bean have compounds flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins and tannins. This compound has the benefit of being an antihyperglycemic which plays a role in inhibiting absorption glucose, preventing the formation of AGEs chains, and increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. This research aims to determine the effectiveness of the robusta coffee bean fraction which is effective in reducing blood glucose levels in STZ-NA induced mice. Research conducted is experimental research. Using 30 mice aged 2-3 months with a body weight of 18-25 g and grouped into 6 groups, that is group I negative streptozotocin 5.6 mg/kg weight and nicotinamide 15.4 mg/kg weight, group II positive control was given glibenclamide 0.65 mg/kg weight, Group III was given robusta coffee bean extract 400 mg/kg weight Group IV was given the n-hexane fraction of 42 mg/kg weight, group V was given the ethyl acetate fraction of 38 mg/kg weight, group VI was given the water fraction of 216 mg/kg weight. The data has been analyzed and after 21 days of observation it was found that the ethyl acetate fraction and robusta coffee bean extract decreased blood glucose levels the same as the decrease in blood glucose levels in the positive group test.

Standardization of ethanol extracts from pomegranate fruit peels (Punica Granatum L.) using the reflux method

2026-02-04T11:47:11+00:00

Pomegranate peel (Punica granatum L.) is known to contain various active secondary metabolite compounds that have potential in the field of pharmacy. To ensure the quality, safety, and consistency of extracts as raw materials for traditional medicines, a standardization process is required that includes specific and nonspecific parameters. This study aims to standardize pomegranate peel extract and identify the active compounds it contains. Extraction was performed using the reflux method with 96% ethanol solvent. The specific parameters tested included organoleptic properties, water-soluble and ethanol-soluble extract levels, and identification of active compounds through phytochemical testing. The results showed that pomegranate peel extract met the quality standards for extracts with good specific and non-specific characteristics. The extract yield was 12.76%. The results of testing the non-specific parameters of water content, drying loss, ash content, and acid-insoluble ash content were 3.12%, 1.24%, 0.33%, and 0.19%, respectively. Specific standardization includes water-soluble extract content of 3.2% and ethanol-soluble extract content of 4.4%. Phytochemical testing of the extract showed the presence of active compounds such as alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, quinones, and steroids.