Journal of Health Management and Pharmacy Exploration

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.

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.

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.

Antibacterial nardus grass kombucha (cymbopogon nardus (l.) rendle) against staphylococcus epidermidis and propionibacterium acnes

2026-04-07T12:06:27+00:00

The bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (PA) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (SE) cause acne vulgaris, an infection marked by inflammation in the sebaceous glands, as well as obstruction and accumulation of keratinous components. Kombucha contains antimicrobial chemicals, among other components. The active components' antibacterial properties should be strengthened by the addition of Nardus grass. Finding the most ideal concentration and the efficiency of Nardus grass kombucha in suppressing PA and SE bacteria were the goals of this investigation. The Kirby-Bauer antibacterial testing method was used to test Nardus grass kombucha against PA and SE bacteria after it had fermented for 14 days at concentrations of 70%, 80%, and 90%. ANOVA and SPSS software were used to analyze the data. According to the test results, the development of clean zones demonstrated that Nardus grass kombucha at all concentrations may stop bacterial growth. At 70%, 80%, and 90% concentrations, the inhibition zones' average diameters against PA bacteria were 16.60 mm, 18.53 mm, and 20.96 mm, respectively. At the same doses, the inhibition zones for SE bacteria were 15.40 mm, 16.30 mm, and 17.53 mm. The results of the study showed that nardus grass kombucha can inhibit PA and SE bacteria, with 90% being the ideal concentration.

Formulation and antifungal activity test of ethanol extract of cashew leaves (anacardium occidentale l.) gel for thrush against candida albicans fungus

2026-04-19T14:05:33+00:00

Cashew leaves (Anacardium occidentale L.) contain bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, saponins, and tannins, which exhibit potential antifungal activity against Candida albicans. This study aimed to formulate a canker sore gel containing ethanol extract of cashew leaves and to evaluate its antifungal activity against Candida albicans. The extract was obtained by maceration using 96% ethanol. Gel formulations were prepared at concentrations of 5%, 7.5%, and 10%. Physical evaluations included organoleptic properties, homogeneity, viscosity, pH, spreadability, and adhesiveness. Antifungal activity was assessed using the agar well diffusion method, with 2.2% nystatin as the positive control and the gel base as the negative control. All formulations met the requirements for a good gel preparation, exhibiting a semi-solid consistency, brownish-green color, characteristic odor, and homogeneous texture. The viscosity ranged from 120–250 dPas, and the pH was 6, indicating suitability for oral mucosal application. Inhibition zones against Candida albicans were 10.3 mm, 11.6 mm, and 12.3 mm for the 5%, 7.5%, and 10% formulations, respectively. The 7.5% and 10% formulations demonstrated strong antifungal activity. Statistical analysis revealed that concentration variation significantly affected antifungal activity (p < 0.05). Significant differences were observed between the 5% formulation and the 7.5% and 10% formulations, whereas no significant difference was found between the 7.5% and 10% formulations. Cashew leaf ethanol extract can be formulated into an effective canker sore gel, with the optimal antifungal activity observed at concentrations of 7.5%–10%.