Characteristics of Sargassum plagyophillum Extract as An Active Compound on Non-Alcoholic Hand Sanitizer

Abstract

Excessive use of non-alcoholic hand sanitizers irritate to the skin, moreover a burning effect, that alternative natural active compound is required, namely Sargassum plagyophillum extract. S. plagyophillum extract contains secondary metabolites that can act as antibacterial and can moisturize the skin. This research aimed to determine the microbiological and physical characteristics of S. plagyophillum of the non-alcoholic hand sanitizer. The sample used in this research was 2% S. plagyophillum extract obtained by maceration using methanol. The production of non-alcoholic hand sanitizers was conducted using other ingredients such as carbopol, triethanolamine, methyl paraben, propilen glycol, and distilled water. The test parameters were testing for gram-positive and gram-negative antibacterial activity, pH, and viscosity. The results showed that non-alcoholic hand sanitizer containing 2% S. plagyophillum extract had characteristics in the form of a gel with gram positive antibacterial activity (Listeria monocytogenes) with an inhibition zone of 2.50 mm, while gram negative antibacterial activity (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) with an inhibition zone of 4.33 mm. Subsequently, the pH value produced from the hand sanitizer containing S. plagyophillum was in accordance with recommended skin pH of 7.33. Meanwhile, based on the value of the viscosity, the hand sanitizer containing S. plagyophillum had a viscosity value according to the viscosity standard, namely 2600 cPs.