A research on developing Handmade Custard Apple Soap with a

mixture of Madagascar Periwinkle Essence

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

In everyday life we use soap to wash dishes, clean clothes, or keep our bodies presentable to
nose and eye. Soap therefore has numerous applications in our daily life. One of its great values
is keeping our household a far better place to live and work. There could be hundred different
ways of explaining what really a soap is and what can be regarded as a soap; we can regard it as
any cleaning agent, manufactured in bars, granules, flakes, or liquid form, made from a mixture
of mostly sodium or potassium salts of various fatty acids of natural oils and fats In addition to
basic raw materials, other substances of medicinal importance are added as ingredient to produce
medicated soaps; there are other types of soap which are soaps of metals other than sodium and
potassium called metallic insoluble soaps that are not used as cleaning agents, but are used for
other purposes. Examples are, calcium and magnesium soap used as lubricants and driers,
aluminum and chromium soaps for sizing paper, lithium stearate (a lithium soap) for thicken oils
into grease etc. [1].

Natural and sustainable alternatives are becoming more and more popular as people become
more conscious of the negative impacts that synthetic chemicals have on their health and the
environment. Making soap from plant extracts became more popular in these circumstances [2].
Using oil extracts from fruits with proven benefits to human health to make a “Natural”
handmade soap would further widen the use of fruits’ benefits to human health further increasing
the use of fruit-based soap. However, natural soaps offer a skin and environmentally-friendly
substitute. In small to medium-sized handmade soap businesses, there is a growing demand for
natural ingredients in cosmetic and personal skin care products [3].

Custard apple, a tropical fruit known for its rich nutritional profile, has been traditionally used
for its medicinal properties. Its high antioxidant content and potential anti-inflammatory effects
suggest its suitability for skincare applications [4]. Plant-based antimicrobials have substantial
prophylactic properties and are considered to be efficient, safe, and cost-effective alternatives for
synthetic antimicrobials that possess more notable side effects. Despite being a commercial fruit
plant because of its creamy succulent flesh, Annona squamosa is reported to have enormous
pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial activity, owing to the presence of different
secondary metabolites, such as glycosides, phytosterols, alkaloids, oils, saponins, phenols, and
flavonoids [5].

The genus Catharanthus comprises eight species, seven of which are endemic to Madagascar,
while C. pusillus is endemic to India. Among these, Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as
Madagascar periwinkle (hereafter referred to as MP), is a significant floral species in horticulture
and boasts a long-standing history of pharmacological use. Its usage can be traced back to
Mesopotamian folklore as early as 2600 BCE. Today, this plant continues to play a substantial
role in herbal and traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. Its therapeutic
properties were attributed to several alkaloid compounds discovered around the mid-1950s. [6].

Periwinkle Liquid Extract is sourced from the herbaceous plant Catharanthus roseus, which
is native to Madagascar. Esteemed for its wide-ranging applications in traditional medicine
across various cultures, periwinkle has been cherished since the Middle Ages. Rich in
antioxidant alkaloids, this extract offers both soothing and astringent properties, effectively
balancing and cleansing the skin with a gentle touch. Commonly found in skin brightening
products, it enhances a radiant complexion and serves as an excellent ingredient in eye care
formulations, contributing to the maintenance of firm, supple skin in this delicate area [7].
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric
uses of periwinkle
which are time-tested and confirmed
with peoples’ belief. The
paste prepared from the leaves is an
excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It
can stop bleeding,
thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that
periwinkle is useful in bringing relief
from depression,
headaches and fatigue
There are many traditional and folkloric uses of periwinkle which are time-tested and
confirmed with peoples’ belief. The paste prepared from the leaves is an excellent wound healer
and also relieve the wasp sting pain. It can stop bleeding, thereby quickening the healing process.
Many also say that periwinkle is useful in bringing relief from depression, headaches and fatigue.
Periwinkle (Vinca) Extract, with its high concentration of antioxidant alkaloids, provides
soothing and astringent characteristics to balance and cleanse the skin while pampering it with a
soft and delicate touch. This extract is commonly used in skin lightening treatments to boost
energy. It is also a fantastic complement to eye care products to help maintain tight, smooth skin
in this sensitive area. It has various advantages and capabilities, including better emollience,
increased viscosity, non-irritating qualities, remarkable sensory features, clarity, and anti-
bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Its calming action soothes the skin, giving it a relaxed
appearance; it is antimicrobial, and anticoagulant, and enhances skin oxygenation. [8][9].

In conclusion Given the History and Background of Custard apple and the Madagascar
Periwinkle and their healing and rejuvenating factors when it comes to skin disorder. Due to its
natural properties as an anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties the development of the said
product is a must.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

This study aims to develop a soap which helps to heal some skin irritations and to prevent the
spreading of the bacteria for our skin and to address this gap by developing a handmade Custard
apple soap enrich with madagascar periwinkle essence focusing on it’s effectiveness, safety, and
consumer appeal. This kind of product was chosen mainly because Custard apple and
madagascar periwinkle is easy to find in this island specifically, This study seeks to answer the
following:

1. What is the process involved in the preparation of making custard apple and madagascar
periwinkle essence?

2. Is the herbal antibacterial soap out of madagascar periwinkle extract effective to kill bacteria?

3. What is the level of acceptability of the developed custard apple and madagascar periwinkle
handmade soap in terms of a (a. antibacterial activity b.) effectiveness c.) skin texture
1.2 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

This research aims to investigate the creation of a distinctive handmade custard apple soap
infused with essence from the Madagascar periwinkle. By harnessing the natural benefits of
these ingredients, we intend to produce a product that not only cleanses but also nourishes the
skin. The following objectives will guide this study:

1. Formulation Development: To create a stable and effective formulation for handmade

custard apple soap that incorporates Madagascar periwinkle essence, optimizing for
texture, lathering ability, and moisturizing properties.
2. Market Viability Study: To analyze the market potential and consumer acceptance of
the handmade custard apple soap with Madagascar periwinkle essence by conducting
surveys and focus groups to understand consumer preferences, perceived benefits, and
willingness to purchase.
3. Efficacy Testing: To evaluate the antimicrobial and skin-conditioning properties of the
handmade custard apple soap, comparing it to traditional soap formulations and assessing
its potential benefits for skin health

1.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This research aims to contribute to the growing knowledge base surrounding natural and
organic skincare products. By investigating the potential of custard apple and Madagascar
periwinkle in soap development, this study seeks to provide valuable insights for creating
innovative and effective natural beauty products.

1.4 SCOPE AND DELIMITATIONS

This research aims to develop handmade custard apple soap infused with Madagascar periwinkle
essence, concentrating on product formulation, ingredient analysis, consumer preferences, and
efficacy testing. However, this study is constrained by geographical limitations to a specific area,
the use of locally sourced ingredients, a focus on a single soap formulation, and a short-term
evaluation of consumer feedback and product performance.

CHAPTER II

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

This chapter presents the review of related literature and studies relevant to the development and
acceptability of custard apple and madagascar periwinkle extract as handmade soap.

2.1 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

The fruit of Annona squamosa. has been shown to have anti-microbial properties due to a
variety of compounds including Ent-kauranes, Acetogenins, essential oils, and
Benzylisoquinolines alkaloids. The crude methanol extract of sugar apple and an isolated
diterpene are being tested for anti-bacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and
Streptococcus pneumonia. Custard apple is not only a tasty fruit, but it is also beneficial to the
skin. It contains nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B, and antioxidants, all of which
are necessary for skin rejuvenation. Custard apple paste is used to treat ulcers, abscesses, and
boils. Custard Apple contains vitamin C, which aids in wound healing and the formation of
cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Consuming custard apple juice on a regular basis promotes the
growth of new cells in the skin’s layers. It also helps with the healing of abrasions and cuts.
When applied to the skin, the latex of the custard apple tree treats skin diseases such as
inflammation, eczema, and psoriasis [10]. (Neha et al ., 2022).

Another study states that Annona squamosa (Custard Apple) seeds have been employed in the
traditional medical system since time immemorial for skin exfoliation and elimination of
headlice. The seeds of the custard apple include biologically active substances such as
polyphenols, alkaloids, acetogenins and cyclohexapeptides. The pharmacological properties of
certain acetogenins, including wound healing capabilities, anti-lice, mosquitocidal
characteristics, anticancer, antifungal and antioxidant properties have been investigated in the
past few years [11]. (Kumari et al., 2022)

A study conducted by Mahawar et. al states that Annona squamosa is a medium-sized tree
which belongs to the family. Annonaceae. It is well-known with many local names such as
sugar apple, custard apple, and sweetsop in English, Sirafal in Hindi, and Matomoko in
Kenya. Custard apple is not only a delicious fruit but also is excellent for the skin as well. It
contains nutrients such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin B, and antioxidants, which are required
for rejuvenating the skin’s health.

Another study conducted in India states that Four different solvent extracts of leaves of
Custard apple (Annona squamosa L.) were studied for its antibacterial activity. Agar diffusion
Vohora method was selected to check antibacterial activity. Two Gram positive (Staphylococcus
aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and two Gram negative (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas
aeruginosa) bacteria were selected for screening. Then phytochemical studies showed that
Linalool, Borneol, Eugenol, Farnesol, and Geraniol present in extracts which provide
antibacterial activity. A. squamosa contains flavonoids which exposes strong antibacterial
activity.
 Study carried out on Annona squamosa have reviled that the plant posses anti-hyperglycemic
effect. The study was done using Male albino Wistar rats. The diabetes was induced using
streptozotocin. The study resulted that Oral administration of A. squamosa aqueous extract to
diabetic rats for 30 days significantly reduced blood glucose, urea, uric acid and creatinine, but
increased the activities of insulin, C peptide, albumin, albumin/globulin ratio and restored all
marker enzymes to near control levels [12].

According to the article of Drugs.com, Periwinkle alkaloids have been utilized in the treatment
of specific cancers; however, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before using the plant
for this purpose. Additionally, periwinkle has been investigated for its potential antimicrobial and
antiprotozoal properties, as well as its applications in diabetes management and wound healing.

C. roseus is classified as a high-value, low-volume medicinal herb gaining global recognition as

a sole source of antineoplastic vinblastine and vincristine and antihypertensive drugs ajmalicine
and serpentine. Along with these molecules, C. roseus also synthesizes several other biologically
active compounds with demonstrated pharmacological attributes. The majority of the research
undertaken on C. roseus aimed to elucidate the enzymatic pathway machinery and its spatio-
temporal regulation [13].

According to another study, Plant cell culture techniques have proven effective in addressing
significant challenges in the manufacturing of cosmetic products. This approach enables a higher
yield of active concentrations by utilizing stimulating factors such as UV radiation, jasmonic
acid, or even toxic substances. The technology encompasses a variety of complex methods that
promote the growth of plant cells, tissues, or organs in a microbe-free nutrient environment. It
facilitates the synthesis of biologically active compounds found in plants that may be scarce in
nature or difficult to produce through chemical synthesis. Extracts derived from plant stem cells
are currently utilized in the production of both everyday consumer and professional cosmetics,
including whitening agents like arbutin from Catharanthus roseus (rose periwinkle) and pigments
such as safflower and saflorin derived from C. tinctorius.
Another study shows that Periwinkle (Vinca) Extract, renowned for its high concentration of
antioxidant alkaloids, offers soothing and astringent properties that help to balance and cleanse
the skin while providing a soft, delicate touch. Commonly utilized in skin lightening treatments,
this extract also enhances energy levels. It is an excellent addition to eye care products,
contributing to the maintenance of tight, smooth skin in this sensitive area. Its numerous benefits
include improved emollience, increased viscosity, non-irritating characteristics, remarkable
sensory attributes, clarity, and notable anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. With its calming
effects, it soothes the skin for a relaxed appearance, while also exhibiting antimicrobial and
anticoagulant properties that enhance skin oxygenation.

According to Chouksey et al. (2013) were aimed at evaluating the effect of

gamma irradiation in combination with the antioxidant benzyl adenine to
eradicate contamination on “custard apples”, ensure microbial safety, and

extend their shelf life. The proposed Handmade soap demonstrates the effectiveness as a
cosmetology product with the natural proteins of Atis or Annona squamosa Linn mixed with
Madagascar Perwinkle essence where it can be used as an anti-microbial and anti-fungal
handmade natural soap.

2.2 DEFINITION OF TERMS

Texture- This study will help to determine the softness and roughness of the product.
Oxygenation- Is a process that delivers oxygen directly into the skin.

Catharantus roseus – A herbal plant that is commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle or pink
periwinkle. This plant have wound healing properties.

Anonna squamosa- This plant commonly known as sugar apple or custard apple and it has also
been shown to have various medical benefits.

Lithium soap-It is the most common soap used to stabilize and thicken
lubricating greases.

REFERENCES
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