Production of Antimicrobial Soap from A Blend of Moringa Oleifera Oil and Castor Oil (Published)
Moringa oleifera oil and castor oil were both extracted from their seeds using the mechanical press method. The Moringa oleifera oil and castor oil were then blended in various proportions and used in preparing soaps which were subsequently characterized. The physical properties of the prepared soap including hardness and pH were analyzed. The antimicrobial activity of the soap produced was examined against some clinical isolates of pathogenic organisms (Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans). The soaps produced from all the blends of oils exhibited antimicrobial activity against E.coli. However, soap of 100 % of Moringa oleifera oil gave the highest zone of inhibition (19 mm) at a concentration of 400 mg/ml. Soap prepared using 100 % castor oil alone gave the highest zone of inhibition against S. aureus (28 mm) and C. albicans (25 mm). Therefore, the therapeutic efficacy of these oils cannot be overlooked hence exploring them becomes essential.
Keywords: Antimicrobial activity, Moringa oleifera, castor oil, pathogenic organisms, soap