Formulation and Acceptability of Moringa - Jamaican Berry Bar Foot Scrub

Abstract: In the pursuit of innovative and natural treatments, this research explores the synergy between Moringa- Jamaican berry extracts in a solid scrub format. Seeking to balance exfoliation, moisture and smoothness with nourishment. This study aimed to evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of a moringa seed and Jamaican berry bar foot scrub, focusing on sensory qualities and functional performance. The experimental-developmental research design with a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) was employed, using three treatments that varied in the proportion of the primary ingredients: Treatment A (25g moringa seeds: 75g Jamaican berry), Treatment B (50g:50g), and Treatment C (75g moringa seeds: 25g Jamaican berry), while moringa extract, glycerin, and scent were kept constant. A total of 25 evaluators, including cosmetology teachers, beauticians, students, and consumers, assessed the products using a five- point Likert scale on sensory qualities in terms of appearance, scent, texture and functional performance in terms of exfoliating, moisturizing, and smoothing effects. The findings revealed that Treatment C was consistently rated superior across all sensory and functional attributes. In terms of appearance, it was described as “very attractive”; its scent was “very pleasant,” and its texture was “very rough,” providing a noticeably effective exfoliating feel. Treatment C also demonstrated the highest level of effectiveness, being “very effective” in exfoliating, moisturizing, and smoothing the feet, while Treatments A and B were rated as “effective.” Statistical analyses confirmed significant differences among the treatments in sensory qualities using the Kruskal–Wallis test and in exfoliating and moisturizing effects through one- way ANOVA. Post hoc evaluation indicated that the higher moringa seed content in Treatment C contributed to enhanced abrasive action, superior hydration, and overall user satisfaction. Smoothing effect and general acceptability, although descriptively higher in Treatment C, did not show statistically significant differences. Overall, the study concluded that Treatment C (moringa-dominant formulation) emerged as the best-performing bar foot scrub, offering a synergistic combination of sensory appeal and functional efficacy. The results highlight the importance of optimizing ingredient proportions in plant-based foot care products to maximize exfoliating and moisturizing benefits without compromising user satisfaction. These findings provide practical insights for cosmetic formulation, product development, and commercialization of natural foot care solutions.

Keywords: Moringa seed, foot scrub, bar soap, cosmetic formulation,