Surakarta, Central Java(12-08-2024) – Students of the Diponegoro University Real Work Study (KKN) Chemistry Department are again innovating. This time, we invited the women from the TP PKK administrators, Kestalan Village, Banjarsari District, to make aromatherapy candles made from lemongrass. The workshop, which was held in Kestalan Village, aims to increase the creativity and skills of mothers and open up new business opportunities. As a strategic area and economic center, many Kestalan residents work as traders. “We see great potential in Kestalan Village to develop unique and value-added MSME products,” said Debby Anitya Nasution, Undip Chemistry student. Aromatherapy candles made from lemongrass were chosen because they have many benefits, such as providing a fresh, calming aroma, and can be used as a mosquito repellent. Apart from that, the main raw material, namely lemongrass, is easily available around us.
“Lemongrass contains essential oils which are beneficial for health and relaxation. By making aromatherapy candles from lemongrass, we not only get a useful product, but can also provide added value to lemongrass which until now may only have been considered a kitchen spice,” added Debby. be a presenter in a workshop.
During the workshop, participants were taught directly how to make aromatherapy candles. The materials used are very simple, namely paraffin wax, pieces of lemongrass, candle wicks, and candle containers. The manufacturing process is relatively easy. The paraffin wax is heated until it melts, then the lemongrass pieces are added and stirred well. After that, the mixture is poured into a candle container with a wick. “I am very happy to take part in this workshop. It turns out that making aromatherapy candles is very easy. Apart from being able to use it myself, I can also sell this product to increase my family’s income,” said one PKK woman in Kestalan Village.
The enthusiasm of the workshop participants was very high. They seemed to really enjoy the process of making aromatherapy candles. Don’t forget that each mother brought an aromatherapy candle product resulting from the practice carried out. It is hoped that with this activity, mothers can develop small-medium enterprises (MSMEs) based on natural products and improve family welfare. Diponegoro University is committed to continuing to contribute to community empowerment through various community service activities. By providing skills and knowledge, it is hoped that the community will be more independent and prosperous. Diponegoro University hopes that activities like this can inspire other communities to be more creative and innovative in developing local potential.
Author: Debby Anitya Nasution (S1 Chemistry Student, Faculty of Science and Mathematics, Diponegoro University)
Lecturer: dr. Dea Amarilisa Adespin, M. Kes, FISPH, FISCM
Location of KKN: Kestalan Village, Banjarsari District, Surakarta City
