The Essential Oil Context of Lemongrass and Its Potential for Innovative ESD-Informed Learning

Abstract

Lemongrass essential oil contains various active compounds that function as antibacterial (citral and geraniol), deodorizer, insecticide, biocide, anti-fungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer potential, and disinfectant, potentially resulting in innovative processes and products. The process and essential oil products from lemongrass are an interesting context for introducing ESD. This research aims to analyze the potential context of essential oil from lemongrass and aspects of the SDGs to develop innovative learning with ESD content. This preliminary research was carried out by describing the results of searches from various literature regarding the process of extracting essential oils using various techniques and using the products for health. The instruments used in this research were an analysis format of reading sources to produce appropriate themes and sub-themes and an open-ended questionnaire via Google Forms for prospective chemistry teacher participants. The results of the research show that the essential oil process involves extraction, microwave extraction, and steam distillation processes, where student teachers do not fully understand the process and potential product context of essential oil from lemongrass which contains ESD. In addition, 92% of prospective teacher students are interested in creating innovative product solutions that are environmentally friendly and good for health. The opinions of prospective teacher students regarding innovative learning with ESD content can stimulate creative thinking, critical thinking, collaboration, and deep understanding of concepts. The topic of essential oil from citronella has the SDGs aspect of a healthy and prosperous life because it produces potential products for health such as telon oil, massage oil, aromatherapy candles, diffusers, soap, anti-mosquito, floor cleaner, disinfectant, hand sanitizer, and herbal medicine. Based on the results of this research, it shows that the context of essential oils from lemongrass can be applied to innovative learning with ESD content.

Keywords

• Essential oil
• Lemongrass
• Product

References

1. Lestari, N.A. Liliasari, L., Musthapa, I., Hernani, H., & Fadhilah, A. (2024). The essential oil context of lemongrass and its potential for innovative ESD-informed learning. The Eurasia Proceedings of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (EPSTEM), 28, 157-166.