Published in Scientific Bulletin. Series F. Biotechnologies, Vol. XXIX, Issue 2
Written by Lavinia-Diana-Nicoleta BURUGĂ-BARBU, Oana-Alina BOIU-SICUIA, Diana GROPOȘILĂ-CONSTANTINESCU, Narcisa Elena BĂBEANU
The paper aimed to present the innovative formulation of a natural soap enriched with plant extracts from green sorrel (Rumex acetosa) and red sorrel (Rumex sanguineus). The extracts were obtained using ethanol, methanol, and water as solvents, targeting a broad spectrum of bioactive compounds with known antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The soap formulation process involved the cold saponification method, followed by the incorporation of these extracts. The resulting soap samples were evaluated for key physicochemical parameters, including pH value, moisture content, total fat content, and free alkali levels (NaOH, KOH). Additional analyses included foaming capacity and antimicrobial activity testing. The antimicrobial effect was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 43300, Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 1544, Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium ATCC 14028, and Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 51625, using standard disc diffusion and broth dilution methods. The results revealed a skin-compatible pH, low residual alkali content, and promising antimicrobial efficiency, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria. These findings highlight the potential of Rumex-derived extracts as multifunctional ingredients in sustainable, bioactive soap formulations.
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