Impact Oriented Research Dissemination: Community Training on Herbal Soap Production Using Local Medicinal Plants in Karya Mukti Village, Bandung Regency

Abstract. Community empowerment through the utilization of local medicinal plants provides a strategic approach to improving public health while enhancing rural economic resilience. This community service initiative aimed to transfer appropriate and sustainable technology for the production of herbal soap formulated with natural ingredients lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus), cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum), and red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. rubrum) each recognized for its antibacterial and skin-protective properties. The program was implemented in Karya Mukti Village, Cililin District, Bandung Regency, involving active participation from local farmer groups and women’s associations. The activities included community outreach, educational workshops, hands-on training in herbal soap formulation, and product quality evaluation.  Program evaluation revealed a 65% improvement in participants’ knowledge and practical skills in producing three herbal soap variants with favorable physical characteristics, a pleasant natural aroma, and a skin-compatible pH of 5–6. Participants also demonstrated high enthusiasm and motivation to sustain production as a potential home-based enterprise.