ANTIMICROBIAL EFFECT OF THE LOCALLY MADE LIQUID SOAP ON SOME SELECTED MICROORGANISM

ANTIMICROBIAL EFFECT OF THE LOCALLY MADE LIQUID SOAP ON SOME SELECTED MICROORGANISM

ABSTRACT

This study investigates the antimicrobial effects of locally made liquid soaps on selected microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi. A total of 40 samples were collected and subjected to isolation and identification of these microorganisms. Bacterial isolates were identified based on colony morphology, gram reaction, and biochemical tests. Fungal species were identified based on colony morphology and microscopic examination. Different concentrations (100mg/ml, 50mg/ml, and 25mg/ml) of three local antiseptic soaps (A, B, and C) were tested for their antimicrobial activity using agar disc diffusion methods. The results were analyzed to assess the effectiveness of these soaps against the isolated microorganisms. The study found that the efficacy of the antiseptic soaps varied depending on the microorganism tested. Generally, antiseptic soaps were more effective against fungi than bacterial isolates. Results revealed varying levels of effectiveness among the locally made liquid soaps against the isolated microorganisms. Sample A locally made liquid soap showed inhibition of bacterial growth, particularly against Staphylococcus, while Sample B was effective against fungal isolates, including Malassezia furfur and Tricophyton spp. Sample C exhibited inhibition against Streptococcus, but its effectiveness varied. This study underscores the importance of considering the specific antimicrobial needs when selecting soap products. It emphasizes the significance of proper hand hygiene and the role of effective antibacterial and antifungal soaps in infection prevention. The research also suggests that further evaluation of locally produced soap products is warranted, particularly in regions where they are commonly used. In conclusion, Sample A locally made liquid soap demonstrated effectiveness as an antibacterial agent, while Sample B was effective as an antifungal agent. The study recommends continued research and development of soap formulations to enhance antimicrobial properties and promote better hand hygiene practices in healthcare and everyday settings.

Keywords: Antimicrobial, locally made liquid soap, microorganisms, bacteria, fungi, hand hygiene, soap efficacy.

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

In the realm of hygiene and public health, the effectiveness of various antimicrobial agents in combating microorganisms has long been a subject of significant interest and research. One such agent is liquid soap, a common household product widely used for handwashing and personal cleanliness. The antimicrobial properties of liquid soap, particularly when produced locally, hold substantial implications for its potential as an affordable and accessible means of controlling the spread of harmful microorganisms (Friedman and Wolf, 2020).

The use of liquid soap is more attractive to the public than solid soap because it is more practical, economical, not contaminated, easy to carry, and easy to store2. There have been many antibacterial soaps circulated in the market under various brand names. Most of the antibacterial soap in the market still contains synthetic ingredients such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and triclosan, which have adverse effects on human skin. These side effects include sensitivity to the skin and turning off the protective layer on the skin to be more susceptible to exposure to harmful bacteria on the skin (Larry, 2019).

Today, antisepsis/sanitization, decontamination, disinfection, and sterilization just to name a few, are expressions that describe methods of cleaning by either using detergents/soap or other cleaning agents (Hunt, 2019). Several cleaning agents are obtainable in the market, which are presented in different forms with clear formulations. P-chloro-m-xylenol (PCMX/chloroxylenol), triclosan, and trichlorocarbamide which are the widely used antibacterial agent present in medicated soaps. These are commonly considered as preservatives unless the product is distinctly recognised as antiseptic, germicidal or antibacterial (Larson, 2018).

An exploration into the antibacterial properties of locally produced soap, specifically African Black Soap, was undertaken to assess its impact on Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Various concentrations of the soap (0.05g/ml, 0.01g/ml, 0.15g/ml, and 0.20g/ml) were tested for their inhibitory effects using the ditch plate method, as detailed by Varsha in 2016. The most significant inhibition zone, measuring 16mm, was observed at a concentration of 0.02g/ml against E. coli, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus. This outcome highlights the antibacterial efficacy of African Black Soap against these three bacteria. Notably, the 0.15g/ml concentration exhibited the highest effectiveness against S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa. As a result, local manufacturers have the opportunity to improve their product quality to match that of traditional antiseptic soaps, as suggested by Varsha’s research in 2016.

Saba et al., 2009 have reported on liquid soaps, and their activity against pathogenic bacteria. The study sought to verify the antibacterial activity of different branded soaps against the bacteria that are regularly present within the environment. Detection of bacterial strains was done by the techniques of standard microbiology, which include biochemical testing, gram staining, and advanced identification by analytical profile index (Saba et al., 2019). Determination of the least inhibitory concentration and lowest bactericidal activity of strains was carried out by tube and micro titration method. Antibacterial soaps displayed better MIC in contrast with beauty soaps. The most resistant bacteria to all the soaps are Klebsiella pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa. It is clear and apparent that antibacterial soaps have the antibacterial means that can either inhibit or eliminate the bacterial cells. Even at high concentrations of soaps, it might be possible that some bacterial strains become resistant which leads to their survival (Saba et al., 2019).

This study investigate the antimicrobial potential of locally produced liquid soap against a carefully selected range of microorganisms. Understanding the efficacy of such soap formulations in inhibiting the growth of specific microbes is crucial for both public health and local product development. In this introduction, we will provide an overview of the significance of this research, the rationale behind the selection of microorganisms, and the objectives of the study. Additionally, we will briefly discuss the relevance of locally produced liquid soap in the context of global health and hygiene practices.

1.1 Statement of the problem

Bacterial infections and the emergence of antibacterial resistance have become a global health problem, for they cause high mortality rates in human populations (Al-Saif et al 2014), thus hygiene and effective control of microbial infections are fundamental aspects of public health. In this context, the use of liquid soap as a means of personal hygiene and microbial control is well-established. However, there exists a knowledge gap regarding the specific antimicrobial properties and effectiveness of locally produced liquid soap formulations, which are often more accessible and affordable in many regions.

The problem addressed by this study can be summarized as follows:

Limited Research: There is a scarcity of comprehensive scientific research and data on the antimicrobial efficacy of locally produced liquid soaps, despite their widespread use in various communities.

Microbial Variability: Different microorganisms pose unique challenges to public health, and it is essential to assess how locally produced liquid soap formulations perform against specific, commonly encountered microorganisms.

Affordability and Accessibility: Given the economic disparities and limited access to commercial antimicrobial products in certain regions, there is a pressing need to explore the potential of locally produced liquid soap as a cost-effective and accessible solution for microbial control.

Public Health Implications: Understanding the effectiveness of locally produced liquid soap against selected microorganisms is crucial for promoting good hygiene practices, preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and improving overall public health.

In light of these considerations, this study seeks to address the aforementioned problem by conducting a systematic investigation into the antimicrobial properties of locally produced liquid soap against specific microorganisms, thereby contributing to the body of knowledge on affordable and accessible means of microbial control.

1.2 Justification

Proper hygiene and effective microbial control are critical for preventing the spread of infectious diseases and maintaining public health. Understanding the antimicrobial properties of locally produced liquid soap can have a direct impact on reducing the incidence of diseases transmitted through contaminated surfaces and hands.

Conducting this study is justified by its potential to enhance public health, promote affordability and accessibility of effective hygiene products, support local economies, and contribute to scientific knowledge. It aligns with the broader goals of improving hygiene practices and reducing the impact of infectious diseases, particularly in resource-constrained settingsTop of ForBottom of Form

1.3 aim and objectives of the study

1.3.1 Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the antimicrobial effect of the locally made liquid soap on some selected microorganism

1.3.2 Objectives

i. Determine the antimicrobial activity of locally produced liquid soap against selected microorganisms

ii. Identify the minimum inhibitory concentration of the locally produced liquid soap required to effectively inhibit the growth of the target microorganisms.

iii. Examine any potential development of microbial resistance to the locally produced liquid soap over successive exposures.

1.4 Scope of the study

The primary focus of the research is to assess the antimicrobial properties of the locally produced liquid soap against the chosen microorganisms. This includes determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and evaluating microbial resistance.