R.C. Obi’s scientific contributions

Coconut oil obtained from the nuts of Cocos nucifera was formulated into creams in order to standardize its use and present it in an elegant form. Using the fusion method, oil in water (o/w) creams were formulated in concentrations of 5 to 40% w/w of oil. The release of active ingredients from creams was investigated using cream challenge and skin inoculation tests, whereby creams were exposed to various spots on skin inoculated with Ps. aeruginosa ATCC 7853, E. coli ATCC 9637, P. vulgaris (clinical isolate), B. subtilis ATCC 607 and C. albicans ATCC 10231. In addition A. niger (clinical isolate) and S. aureus ATCC 13709 were used for antimicrobial screening. The stability of creams was also evaluated using a standard method. The results showed that active ingredients of the coconut oil were released from the creams; this was shown from the good antimicrobial activity of the cream confirming that all formulation ingredients were compatible and did not interfere with activity of the oil. The creams were also found to be stable, as a result of their ability to withstand shock and maintain their physical characteristics.