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| Nia Yuniar Fitriana Putri won 2nd place in the essay competition in the 2022 Farmakesta Competition. (Photo: Istimewah) |
Acne is one of society's most common skin problems, especially among teenagers. The appearance of acne on the face can also reduce self-confidence. So, through an essay, University of Muhammadiyah Malang (UMM) student Nia Yuniar Fitriana Putri made an innovation in the form of an anti-acne gel made from herbal ingredients. This essay won 2nd place in the 2022 Farmakesta Competition event in mid-June.
The big theme raised in the essay competition is Drug Innovation or Herbal Medicine and Cosmetics. From the results of research in the form of journals that have been read, Nia took an idea with the title of her essay, Anti-Acne Gel Combination of Noni Leaf Extract (Morinda citrifoli L.) and Basil Leaves (Ocimum sanctum L.). Nia, a pharmacy student, explained that noni leaves and basil leaves have antibacterial activity, so they have potential as acne medications.
"Usually, acne is treated with antibiotics. However, long-term use of antibiotics can cause resistance, skin damage, and immune hypersensitivity. Therefore, I want to make a safer alternative for anti-acne drugs from herbal ingredients," explained Nia.
Nia also added that before finally determining the title, she had researched beforehand what diseases were common in society and what health problems are currently often experienced by people.
"After the problem is clear, I decide what products are interesting and needed. Usually, I look for title inspiration through journals and then determine what ideas are interesting and have never been discussed by researchers before," added Nia.
Nia reveals that she is actively participating in essay competitions. His participation was not in vain. Nia's efforts and passion led to victory. This essay competition is the second time Nia to win in the essay category at the national level. In addition to essays, Nia is actively participating in Scientific Writing (KTI) with her team and previously won 3rd place at the national level.
"Alhamdulillah, I am very grateful and touched because I can feel this victory again after I experienced several defeats in the competition," said this student from Jombang.
Nia hopes that the essay she has made can be an inspiration and that further research can be done. In addition, it can also be developed into the latest animal-based acne drug products.
"Hopefully, I will still be enthusiastic about expressing creative and innovative ideas in other essay writing so that they can make a useful contribution. Likewise with other student friends who must continue to innovate to become students who provide solutions during problems that occur". (cdr/zak/wil)
