Chapter 3 : Physicochemical properties of herbal soap formulated using Alpinia Galanga and Kaempferia Galanga

Abstract

The personal care and cosmetics market in Asia seem to be one of the quickest growing markets. Recent trend in the personal care and cosmetics industry shows growing demand for organic and natural products. Plethora of innovative personal care and cosmetic products, including soaps are available to fulfill consumers’ needs and demands. Soap is the salt of fatty acids produced from the reaction of an alkali solution with triglycerides at proper ratio through a processed referred as saponification. Physicochemical of the soap can be measured based on a few parameters such as hardness, aroma, colour, lather, and moisturizing abilities (Prieto Vidal et al., 2018). The incorporation of the soap and plant extracts and essential oils can enhance the soap in terms of quality and sensory appeal. Galanga is included in Zingiberaceae family (rhizome class) that is often used as food seasoning or spices for its aromatic smell and spicy flavour. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat gastrointestinal disorders, eliminate bloating and infection because of its antioxidant properties (Chan et al., 2011). Galanga rhizome has been reported to have antifungal, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities (Vuddhakul et al., 2007). Alpinia galangal (A. galangal) is a perennial herb that has stalk rootstocks and tall foliaged stems.