Virtual Booth

  Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) is an underutilized industrial crop increasingly recognized for its rich reservoir of bioactive phytochemicals with potential dermatological applications. This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical composition of kenaf leaf and stem extracts and evaluate their dermatological bioactivities relevant to skin health. The oil was extracted using the Soxhlet method, followed by chemical profiling using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify its major bioactive compounds. The study is important for understanding the chemical characteristics, purity, and possible contamination of plant-derived lipid samples through advanced analytical techniques. The results showed that both samples contained key fatty acids such as linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid, which are known for their moisturizing and skin-protective properties. However, significant differences were observed between the two samples which are MRSM-1 and MRSM-2.

  MRSM-1 exhibited a simpler composition with fewer compounds, indicating a more refined or purified oil. In contrast, MRSM-2 showed a more complex chemical profile, including the presence of fatty acid esters, sterols, and minor compounds such as carbaril, suggesting possible environmental exposure or lower refinement. The presence of bioactive compounds such as phytosterols and tocopherols supports the potential use of kenaf seed oil in skincare formulations, particularly for hydration, antioxidant protection, and anti-inflammatory effects. Overall, this study demonstrates that kenaf seed oil has promising potential as a natural ingredient in cosmetic applications, although further purification and safety evaluation are recommended to ensure product quality and safety. Thus, this study highlights the significance of GC-MS as a reliable analytical tool for the characterization of complex organic compounds in plant-derived materials. 

Keywords : Soxhlet method, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectometry, Fatty acids, bioactive compound and safety evaluation.