The Effectiveness of Clove Leaf Extract (Syzygium Aromaticum L.) as an Active Ingredient in Hand Sanitizer Against Escherichia coli Bacteria.

Abstract

NISAK AZKIA. The Effectiveness of Clove Leaf Extract (Syzygium Aromaticum L.) as an Active Ingredient in Hand Sanitizer Against Escherichia coli Bacteria. Supervised by SRIE WAHYUNI and REZA KURNIA.Escherichia coli infection is a leading cause of diarrhea, while repeated use of chemical-based hand sanitizers may cause irritation to the skin. Consequently, a safe, environmentally friendly, natural alternative is needed. This study aims to examine the effectiveness of clove leaf extract (Syzygium aromaticum L.) as an active ingredient in hand sanitizer against Escherichia coli. The research employed an experimental post-test only group design. The extract was obtained from maceration and formulated into hand sanitizers with the concentrations of 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80%. Antibacterial activity was assessed using the well diffusion method, with a positive control (commercial hand sanitizer) and a negative control (sterile distilled water). The results indicate that the clove leaf extract (Syzygium aromaticum L.) inhibits Escherichia coli growth, with the largest inhibition zone at 80% concentration (17.97 mm), exceeding the positive control (9.95 mm). ANOVA testing revealed significant differences between concentrations (p = 0.002). In conclusion, the clove leaf extract is an effective natural hand sanitizer ingredient, with 80% concentration proving most potent. This finding supports its potential as a safe, affordable alternative sanitation product.Keywords: clove leaves (Syzygium aromaticum L.), hand sanitizer, Escherichia coli, antibacterial, inhibition zone.