Influence of Adding Lerak Extract (Sapindus rarak DC) in the Production of Liquid Soap with Kalamansi Essential Oil Fragrance (Citrus microcarpa)

Abstract

Due to its saponin content, the Lerak fruit is one of the natural ingredients that can be used as an alternative raw material for soap making. Soap is a cleansing agent made through the saponification process between potassium or sodium base and fatty acids from oils or fats. The most practical form of soap nowadays is a liquid soap, thus this research utilizes Lerak Ekstract and Kalamansi Orange fragrance to produce liquid soap. The experimental design used was a Completely Randomize Design (CRD) with 5 treatment levels and 3 replications. The treatment levels included Control, the addition of Lerak extract at 3%, 6%, 9%, and 12%. The results of the study indicate that the addition of Lerak extract significantly affects the stability of the foam. The higher the concentration of Lerak extract, the darker the color of the soap. Measurement results include pH (9.87-10.67), and free alkali content (0.059-0.117). and viscosity (53.8-9.8). the addition of Lerak extract concentration significantly affects the texture, color, aroma, and overall quality of liquid soap. The best liquid soal produced is with the addition of 6% Lerak extract.