Tamarind (Tamarindus indica linn.) and Sweet Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.Moench): their Potential Utilization in Phytotherapy

Abstract

The use of botanical extracts and essential oil in skin care has been increasing due to greater demand on the part of consumers to use natural ingredients. Tamarind and Sweet Sorghum really have big potentials for reaching the public and showcasing its benefits , thus this study could encourage growers to raise more Tamarind and Sweet Sorghum in their areas not only as food but as a raw material in the production of natural products which are for health and wellness. Both Tamarind and Sweet Sorghum possess skin healing effect which may be attributed to their biologically active components. Tamarind possess to have bioflavonoids and alkaloids which occur in its leaves, pulp and bark. The bark contains tannin which are recommended for treatments of inflammation, ulceration and skin disease. Tamarind has Tartaric acid that makes it possible for tamarind to works wonders on oily skin with pimples and on sun-damaged. Sweet Sorghum on the other hand contains emulsion, a substance that can give a moisturizing effect on the skin. the majestic phytochemistry of Tamarind and Sweet Sorghum encouraged the researcher to produce and test the acceptability, efficacy and safety of different skin care products that are commonly needed by the community. The Tamarind Leaves soap was proven to be highly acceptable in terms of its color, odor, texture, hardness and overall appearance. Both the Tamarind soap and the Sweet Sorghum soap were safe and free from insoluble soap and fatty acid soap. The percent reduction of acne in using Tamarind soap, Sweet Sorghum and Commercial soap have similar effect on the tenth and twelve days of use. The initial means of the treatments ranges from 10.00 pustule to 2.00 pustule. After 12 days of treatment the mean decrease is zero or equivalent to 100% decrease in the number of acne. The result of this study maybe explained with the result on antibacterial property test ( against Staphylococcus A.) of Tamarind soap and Sweet Sorghum Soap. Tamarind soap with 8% extract was found to be most effective in reduction of pimples. The Tamarind shower gel and Sweet Sorghum shower gels were effective against Staphylococcus Aurous. Tamarind Bark Ointment was an effective anti – inflammatory agent particularly on swelling and redness as well as for wound healing. Tamarind scrub salt, shower gel and liniment were also highly acceptable and found to be safe and effective. Result on the acceptability of Sweet Sorghum natural products are comparable to the acceptability of Tamarind natural products. The development of technology for the Production of Natural Products from Tamarind and Sweet Sorghum is timely, considering the growing consciousness of consumers on safe, organic and healthy natural products. Likewise, this product diversification scheme can promote multi-uses and competitive of the Tamarind and Sweet Sorghum.