A Chemical and Industrial Study on Utilizing Saponins Extracted from Ziziphus lotus and Artemisia herba-alba Plants in Solid Soap Manufacturing
Abstract
The production of solid soap relies on the saponification process of oils, and the quality of manufactured soap requires the addition of surfactants that reduce surface tension and enhance foaming efficiency. therefore, the search for sustainable and natural alternatives to synthetic surfactant materials has become a scientific challenge and research opportunity. The objective of this study to evaluate the use of saponins extracted from Sidr (Ziziphus lotus) and Wormwood (Artemisia herba-alba) plants as natural agents for reducing surface tension and enhancing foam formation in solid soap manufacturing, thus improving soap quality and making it more attractive to consumers. The experiments done in the laboratories of the Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources - Misurata University during 2025. Qualitative chemical screening was performed, and the quantity of crude saponin isolated from the study plants was estimated through cold precipitation methods. Qualitative screening results emphasized that the studied plants contain saponins, and it was found that the saponin concentration was highest in aqueous extracts. The concentration of saponins extracted from Sidr was enhanced compared to Wormwood at 3%. Solid soap was manufactured using the cold saponification method. Saponin was added at a concentration of 3% by weight of the vegetable oils.
Results demonstrated improvement in the consistency of manufactured soap. Soap enriched with Sidr saponins was distinguished by more stable foam compared to soap enriched with Wormwood saponins. Finally, manufactured soap with added Sidr or Wormwood plant extracts showed quality characteristics in terms of consistency and foam formation that were better than to those enhanced with
synthetic surfactants. furthermore, these results offer promising new prospects for developing high quality solid soap products and serve as an effective substitute for synthetic surfactant materials.
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