Makabuhay Leaf Extract as Pediculide Agent

Abstract

The study to determine the potential of makabuhay leaf extract as alternative pediculide agent. Specifically, it determined the effectiveness of makabuhay extract in killing lice in terms of extract concentration and time of application and to determine its efficacy as pediculicide agent as compared to the standard medicine Kwell shampoo. The study made use of makabuhay leaves and K well shampoo as its independent variables. Four extract concentrations were used: 100%, 75%, 50% and 25%. Each treatment was replicated thrice. The female lice were selected using a compound microscope to determine their gender. Five lice were placed on each petri dish. Each concentration was dropped into petri dish. The subjects were monitored and were observed for ten minutes. Results showed significant differences among the treatments. The best pediculicide agent was the K well shampoo. The pure extract was more effective than the other extract concentration. To maximize the use of makabuhay leaf extract as pediculicide agent, it is recommended to use the pure extract (100%).