Researchers optimized a plant-based hand sanitizer using celery leaf (Apium graveolens L.) extract, leveraging its antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus. Leaves were dried, powdered, and extracted via methanol under Response Surface Methodology (RSM), varying solvent ratio, concentration, temperature, and time across 30 trials. A second-order polynomial model identified optimal conditions (50:1 ratio, 80% methanol, 80°C, 1 hour), yielding 62.70 mg GAE/g total phenolics. Proximate analysis confirmed high moisture (78.96%) and low fat (1.60%), supporting efficient extraction. This approach advances sustainable hygiene by utilizing GRAS-status agricultural by-products, minimizing skin irritation from alcohol while combating resistance.
References: