Formulation and Development of Antibacterial Incense Sticks using Lemongrass oil

Lemongrass oil, known for its aromatic and therapeutic properties, is extracted from Cymbopogoncitratus using various techniques.Extraction of oil was performed using maceration and Soxhlet methods, with maceration yielding higher bioactivity. Qualitative phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed the presence of flavonoids, saponins, cardiac glycosides, terpenoids, quinones, coumarins, glycosides, and volatile oils. Anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oil was assessed through proteinase inhibitory assay showed that the maceration extract achieved higher inhibition, whereas Soxhlet extracts demonstrated lower inhibition. In vitro antibacterial assays using the broth dilution method indicated significant bacterial growth inhibition by maceration extracts against Bacillus subtilis. The obtained essential oil was then utilized in the development of incense sticks, integrating it with a base mixture of wood powder, charcoal, and a binding agent. The resulting incense sticks were evaluated for fragrance retention, burning time, and consumer acceptability. Lemongrass-based incense sticks were successfully formulated, exhibiting a 99% inhibition rate in fumigation studies, confirming strong antimicrobial activity. This research highlights the potential of lemongrass oil as a natural ingredient in incense production, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fragrances while leveraging its antimicrobial and mood-enhancing properties.