In the post-pandemic era, society has become increasingly aware of the importance of natural health products. However, many herbal products on the market have not undergone proper scientific safety testing. Addressing this issue, a research team from the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM) has proven that a combination of cinnamon, peppermint, lemon, and menthol oils does not cause skin irritation. This finding paves the way for the development of safe, natural, herbal-based health products.
The study, led by Drg. Anne Handrini Dewi, M.Kes., was part of the FKG UGM Community Grant Research Program. She explained, “This research was designed to support the development of products such as canker sore patches, health wipes, and even hand sanitizers.”
Cinnamon essential oil contains cinnamaldehyde , known for its antibacterial properties, while peppermint, lemon, and menthol provide refreshing aromatherapy effects. All of these ingredients are derived from plants that thrive in Indonesia, making them promising local resources to support the domestic health industry. “In addition to being natural, this formulation could serve as a safer alternative to commercial chemical products,” she added.
The research was conducted in vivo using 30 Wistar rats. Each rat was applied with the test solution on its back, then observed after 1, 24, 48, and 72 hours to monitor signs of erythema (skin redness due to inflammation) and edema(swelling caused by fluid buildup). After observations, skin samples were examined microscopically using special staining techniques to assess immune cell responses.
The results showed that the Primary Irritation Index (PII) was 0, indicating that the herbal oil mixture caused neither irritation nor allergic reactions. Further tissue analysis also confirmed that immune cells such as macrophages, neutrophils, and mast cells did not show signs of inflammation, leading to the conclusion that the formulation is safe for use.
Alongside the lecturers, five undergraduate dental students actively contributed to the research: Nur Hidayatun, Nabila Amalia Putri, Orchidthania Hamissayunda Putri, Aulia Pradnya Maharani, and Cenny Karmila. “Involving students in research like this is crucial to enhance their practical skills,” said Drg. Anne.
Moving forward, the research team hopes to develop these results into ready-to-use product prototypes. Drg. Anne expressed optimism for industry collaboration: “We hope industry partners can bring this finding into mass production. Society needs local products that are not only effective but also safe and natural,” she concluded.
Author: Fajar Budi Harsakti
Photo: Freepik
