Characteristic and quality microbiology solid soap citronella oil with the addition of Lactobacillus brevis

Abstract

Abstract Lactic acid bacteria have the potential as probiotic candidates, where probiotics provide many benefits for humans and animals. The use of probiotics in the formulation of fragrant Citronella oil (Citronella oil) soap is expected to kill the pathogen E. coli and S. aureus commonly found on the skin’s surface. This study aimed to determine the addition of lactic acid bacteria in the formulation of fragrant lemongrass soap. Besides, cow’s milk in the formulation aims as a prebiotic for probiotic bacteria during the saponification of solid soap. The method used was a randomized block design with five treatments (A = 0ml, B = 2ml, C = 4ml, D = 6ml and E = 5ml) with each of the four treatments. The addition of Lactobacillus brevis NRC0138 in the formulation of fragrant Citronella oil soap affects the soap’s pH value, moisture content, foam power, and antimicrobial activity. L. brevis can survive in an alkaline atmosphere with an initial pH of 14 and the saponification process for 14 days because strain-dependent to survive and adapt to environmental conditions.