Banana Pseudostem Extract as an Alternative Source of Vitamin B6 for

Alleviating Skin Dryness

De Chavez, Kailyn H.

Delos Reyes, Carlos Antonio E.

Ero, Kashly Nhecole D.

Laugo, Ma. Hannah Beatrice M.

Malantic, Ingrid Fay N.

Nisperos, Sophia Isabella C.

Paguio, Loryne C.
INTRODUCTION

Bananas are one of the most well-known and useful plants in the world.

Almost all the parts of this plant, that are, fruit, leaves, flower bud, trunk, and

pseudo-stem, can be utilized. These parts of Musa sapientum Linn. (Musaceae)

are used across cultures for traditional medicine as drugs, food supplements and

cosmetics. The banana pseudostem is a part of banana plant that looks like a

trunk that consists of a central core and tightly wrapped up to twenty-five (25)

leaf sheets. These leaf sheaths unwrap from the stem and transform into

recognizable banana leaves when they mature (Subagyo and Chafidz, 2018).

According to Kato (2012), banana stem is rich in Vitamin B6 which is believed to

be essential for skin development and maintenance.

Developing skin dryness treatments is still proceeding to enhance the

quality of medication for such conditions. Therefore, the medical and cosmetic

field continue to pave the way for innovation focusing on developing eco-friendly

products using locally and naturally sourced ingredients. Fruits are one of the

most used resources for treatment because they contain certain vitamins that

are good for the skin. Banana is one of them because it contains good vitamins

and extracts that are beneficial for the skin (Sampath Kumar, K.P. et al., 2012).

Exploring the other parts, specifically the pseudostem, may lead to more

knowledge about the enhancing of the skin dryness treatment.

Dry skin can have a negative impact on patients' quality of life (Proksch,

2019). According to a study conducted by Susel et. al (2014), the severity of

depressive symptoms is significantly associated with the intensity of dry skin

conditions. In fact, 64.5% individuals in the said research showed impaired skin-

related quality of life. In addition to this, the demand of the current generation for

skin care products such as face masks, anti-aging lotions, and other creams to

improve skin radiance continues to increase at a substantial rate. The skin care

products market for creams and lotions dominates the Philippine personal care

and cosmetics industry and is expected to retain its dominance throughout the

forecast period (Chouhan et. al, 2020). These definitively prove how skin

conditions significantly influence our society today.

As defined by Moore (2019), skin dryness is an uncomfortable condition

characterized by scaling, itching, and cracking. Scientifically termed as xerosis,

this occurs because of the drying of protective natural oils produced by the skin

where the skin begins to lose moisture and its topmost surface dies and begins

to peel away usually with small, thin silvers called flakes. Flaky and dry skin

causes splits or crack and create an area of easy entry for bacteria into the skin.

Xerosis is a common condition experienced by millions of people either

chronically or acutely in response to changes in the environment, skin care

regimen, age, or illness (Weber et. al, 2012). Hands, arms, and legs are the

body parts that are most prone to this condition.

As a result of xerosis, heel fissures predominantly occur. Heel fissures,

commonly known as cracked heels, refers to a condition caused by the

occurrence of lesions in abnormally hard and dry skin over the heels of the feet.

In severe cases, the cracks can become painful, particularly if the cracks

penetrate the deeper layers of the skin. This may cause infection and lead to
infections such as cellulitis. In this condition, the skin around the heels is

unusually thick and dry and is known as the callus. A survey conducted by the

Institute of Preventive Foot Health found that 20% of adults in the United States

experience cracked skin on their feet.

This research focuses on alleviating dry skin conditions, particularly

cracked heels by utilizing banana pseudostem extract. This study is of great

significance in the field of medicine because innovative treatments will be

pioneered while also taking into consideration the natural integrity of the

resources and methods. It will particularly help dermatologists in refining the

development for skin treatment. In addition, this will help the cosmetic industry

because new product developments will be introduced to further promote the

purpose of cosmetics in an eco-friendlier manner. For the community, the

findings and product of this research can be an alternative to the commercially

available ones which are more costly and inefficient. Moreover, this will benefit

individuals and groups in learning more about the importance of exploring the

banana pseudostem and its other potential uses for future use. Lastly, this paper

can serve as a related literature for future researchers who plan to explore the

same topic.

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

This study was conducted to explore the potential use of banana

pseudostem extract for alleviating skin dryness. Specifically, this research

investigated the significant changes in dry skin conditions, particularly cracked

heels in terms of flaking, roughness, tightness, and cracks and developed a

concentrated banana pseudostem extract moisturizer to relieve dry skin.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Skin dryness has been one of the common skin problems people tend to

have. Many factors are affecting the skin’s condition that might worsen the

problem. Remedies and other treatments are sorted out for us to treat specific

skin problems. Natural remedies like using the banana plant have been put into

practice for a long time since bananas are known for good skin treatment.

Another component of the plant is the pseudostem, which possesses potential

nutrients that could combat skin dryness. In relation to nutrients, Vitamin B6 can

also be seen in bananas. It is well-known for moisturizing the skin and helps with

other health complications. Learning more about the details of each variable

might lead this research into identifying the possibility of the effectiveness of

Vitamin B6 from the banana pseudostem in alleviating skin dryness.

Skin Dryness

Dry skin is a common skin condition characterized by a lack of

appropriate hydration in the most superficial layer of the skin, the epidermis

(Cole, 2019). The medical term for dry skin is xerosis. Xerosis is likely to cause

roughness, scaling or flaking, tightness, and cracks that may bleed. In some

cases, itching may also occur.

Factors related to the environment and certain diseases are related to the

occurrence of skin dryness, especially cracked heels. Cole (2019) classifies

these factors into two namely: external and internal. External factors include dry

weather conditions where temperatures are high and humidity levels are low.

The lack of moisture and hydration causes dry skin. Another external factor is

the use of harsh soaps and detergents as emphasized by Skin Sight (2021).

These substances are formulated to remove moisture from the skin as they are

industrially made to remove oil. Furthermore, internal factors that cause skin

dryness are more on the physical condition of the patient. Atopic dermatitis or

eczema sustains and worsens the condition of dry skin.

While dry skin tends to affect males and females equally, xerosis is highly

prevalent in the elderly. (Shiel Jr., 2019). The skin in elderly individuals tends to

have diminished amounts of natural skin oils and lubricants. Maumus-Robert et

al. (2011) found that the prevalence of xerosis was 55.6% among subjects of

older age. A history of atopy, especially atopic dermatitis, is associated with an

increased risk of xerosis in the elderly. Additionally, one study referenced by

Tucker (2010) found that 29% of women claimed to have experienced cracked

heels.

A study conducted by Susel et al. (2014) showed that pruritus or itchy

skin caused by skin dryness influences the patients’ well-being. Depression

level significantly correlated with quality of life and severity of depressive

symptoms was associated with pruritus intensity. Mahto (2020), a consultant

dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, further strengthens

this postulate by stating that skin conditions can both physically and emotionally

debilitate the patient. It was found that persistent skin conditions cause problems
with self-esteem and low confidence. Patients with visible skin conditions tend to

socially isolate themselves in terms of interactions and clothing preferences

because of their appearance.

According to a study conducted by Proksch et. al, (2019), practical

approaches continue to be fortified to analyze the pathophysiology of dry skin at

the molecular level. The research emphasizes the ideal emollient for dry skin

supported by insights of five specialists who deliberated on the structure of the

superficial skin and natural moisturizing factors. With this, the findings confirmed

the efficacy of the incorporation of carefully selected ingredients into a topical

moisturizer for dry skin. A study by Weber (2012) experimented on the treatment

of xerosis on women 50 and 80 years of age, all with severe skin dryness. Using

formulations of oil and water emulsion, two sets of formulations were applied to

assess skin hydration and skin barrier function over two weeks. Results showed

long-term moisturization effects, symptom improvement, and skin tolerability.

The products significantly decreased visible dryness and tactile roughness and

reduced symptoms of itching, burning, tightness, tingling, and feeling of dryness.

Such were considered as frequent persistent symptoms of dry skin.

To sum up everything that has been stated on skin dryness, the factors

associated with this skin condition are prominent in the setting of this research. A

persistent finding across studies that investigated the occurrence of dry skin was

this condition is prevalent among the elderly. Moreover, several research also

concluded the social, emotional, and mental impact of dry skin on patients.

However, the current undertakings on the treatment of dry skin to reduce its
impact on these aspects are insufficient. In fact, according to a survey by

Thompson (2019), nine in ten dermatologists do not think enough importance is

placed on the psychological effects of skin conditions. Additionally, existing

bodies of research emphasized the need to treat dry skin conditions since there

is a known lack of investigation on the natural treatment of the said condition.

Some studies that explored the same topic can be used as a framework in terms

of methodology since there was a found alignment of objectives and variables.

Banana Pseudostem

The banana plant is considered one of the most useful plants in the world.

All parts of this plant can be used such as pseudostems in various food and non-

food applications. (Subagyo & Chafidz, 2018). The stem of a banana commonly

known as banana pseudo-stem is the stem of a banana plant that produces a

single bunch of bananas before dying and then being replaced with new pseudo

strains (Anhwange et al., 2009). In addition, Vezina (2020) defines it as an

apparent stem formed by overlapping leaf sheaths, sometimes enclosing a true

stem. They are a plant by-product and have the potential to provide profitable

products such as food sources for human consumption. Sharma et al. (2017)

explained that banana pseudostem has been comprised of concentric layers of

leaf sheaths and its biomass has been reported to be rich in nutrients. Ma (2015)

further enumerates and analyzes these nutritional compositions such as

carbohydrates, fat, moisture, proteins, ash, sugars, starch, fibers, and B-complex

vitamins. With respect to these B-vitamins, these are further specified into
Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B9 (Folate), Vitamin B1 (Thiamin), Vitamin B6

(Pyridoxine), and Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin). All these considered, the pseudostem

of bananas is high in dietary fibers and has numerous health benefits. (Ho et al.,

2015). Among all these phytochemical constituents, Vitamin B6 is the most

dominant in terms of abundance in the banana pseudostem. According to R.L.

Thorat and H.P. Bobade (2018), banana stem is rich in potassium and Vitamin

B6, which is further supported by Tyler (2014) as he stated that banana extract

is rich in Vitamin B6 which can help moisturize, rehydrate and soothe irritations

such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis and rosacea.

Even though they are crop residues that cause economic losses and

environmental problems after harvest, banana pseudostem has been known as

a potential cellulose source (Khan et al., 2013). They are normally discarded

although they could be used in the pulp and paper industry due to their cellulose

content. It is also consumed as a fresh juice in other countries as it helps to

control obesity and helps detoxify the body due to its rich source of fiber

(Ambrose et al., 2016). It has also been identified that the juice of banana

pseudostem is a natural coagulant for the pre-treatment of wastewater (Sharma

et al., 2017). It is also said that the banana pseudostem extract is used as a

fertilizer and plant nutrient spray. The ICAR had established the use of the

banana pseudostem extract as a mordant for dyeing cotton fabrics with natural

dye (Sharma et al., 2017).

In terms of consumption and its health benefits, the extract of banana

pseudostem has been found highly effective in exerting anti-diabetic effects.

People used to drink the juice of banana pseudostem to prevent urinary

disorders and stone formation in the body (Sharma et al., 2017). The

pseudostem of a banana also has a low glycemic index and antioxidant which is

good for diabetes (Bhaskar et al., 2011). It also contains vitamin B6 that helps in

the production of hemoglobin and insulin that helps improve the ability of the

body to fight infection (Ambrose et al., 2016).

To utilize the banana pseudostem, it must be processed to be

incorporated into food products is able to add value including nutritional and

sensory properties (Jun et al., 2016). All parts of the banana plant such as the

pseudostem can be useful in various food and non-food applications, for

example as a thickener, organic fertilizers, and source of bioactive compounds.

The banana pseudo-stem has also been considered for use as a pulp and paper

raw material, fiber for textiles, and filler or structural reinforcement in composite

materials. (Subagyo & Chafidz, 2018).

In the past, some researchers have shown that banana pseudostem are

used for the small-scale extraction of fibers. In a country like India, these fibers

are used to make handicrafts, ropes, etc., which otherwise can be used to make

high-quality fabrics, papers, and furniture (Ambrose et al., 2016).

Since bananas are tropical fruits liked by a lot of people, aside from the

banana pseudostem, other parts of the banana plant also have their own uses

and benefits. But few know that banana leaves have many health benefits as

well, banana leaves (dried and fresh) can also be used as herbs. They are also

traditionally used to treat various skin conditions such as skin itching, rashes,
and urticaria (hives) (Shukla,2020). When eating a banana, most people discard

the peel. However, a 2018 review showed that banana peels are high in

phenols, which have powerful antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, and are

linked to many health benefits (Frothingham,2019).

To sum up everything, every part of the banana plant has its own use and

benefits to people such as in food making, useful resources, and health benefits.

A part of the banana plant which is the banana pseudostem is high in dietary

fiber and numerous health benefits wherein it controls a person’s weight and

helps detoxify one’s body. The banana pseudostem has been known as a

potential cellulose source and has a low glycemic index. This pseudostem also

contains Vitamin B6 that helps in the production of hemoglobin, and it also

contains potassium. To utilize the banana pseudostems, they must be

processed to be incorporated into food products that can add value in nutritional

properties.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, called pyridoxine, is one of the components of the Vitamin B

complex that has several benefits for the human body. It can contribute to the

development of the central nervous system, metabolism, hormonal imbalance,

and immune system function. One of its roles is to help in the creation of

neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine (Brazier, 2020). Creating

these neurotransmitters could lead to mood regulation, another advantage of the

vitamin. Other than serotonin as the “happy hormone” and melatonin as the

sleep hormone, Vitamin B6 also regulates and creates norepinephrine which is a

stress hormone (Byzak, 2018). Furthermore, a form of Vitamin B6 called

pyridoxine oversees controlling the levels of the blood’s amino acid

homocysteine. This homocysteine level helps in lowering the chance of getting

heart diseases and stroke (Bradford, 2015). Though the body absorbs vitamins,

it cannot produce vitamin B6. People need to get Vitamin B6 through food

consumption and supplements (Streit, 2018). According to Bradford (2015),

there are foods rich in Vitamin B6 such as beans, poultry, fish, fortified cereals,

dark leafy greens, papayas, oranges, and cantaloupe. Consuming fruits and

vegetables prevent the body from malnutrition because of the vitamin intake,

especially Vitamin B6 and other types of Vitamin B complex (Streit, 2018). In all

other fruits, banana is a useful source of this vitamin. The research is aiming to

use the banana plant, specifically the pseudostem, to evaluate its effectiveness

in treating skin dryness.

Vitamin B as a multipurpose nutrient contributes to keeping the skin

healthy. Vitamin B6 also plays a vital role in improving skin health and treating

skin problems. Vitamin B6 can eliminate and lessen the effects of hormonal

imbalance that causes acne breakouts (Thompson, 2020). However, an

insufficient amount of B vitamins will lead to Vitamin B deficiency. Byzak (2018)

stated that B deficiency can create great damages to the skin, including the

formation of dry and flaky skin and wrinkles. The skin will be more sensitive to

external aggressors such as sunlight and other skin products, resulting in

redness and irritation. In addition, specifically having B6 deficiency could lead to

more serious complications. The rash formation due to B6 deficiency creates

skin conditions. An example is dermatitis, making the hands and feet numb and

prickle (Johnson, 2020). Another skin condition is Cheilosis, which is

characterized by sore, red, and swollen lips with cracked mouth corners, which

came from B6 deficiency (Streit, 2018). People with B6 deficiency might

experience other effects such as swollen tongue, cracked corners of the mouth,

weakened immune system, and more (Berry, 2020). Preventing B6 deficiency is

important because B6 synthesizes collagen-a protein responsible for healthy

joints and skin elasticity, or stretchiness (Streit, 2018).

In conclusion, Vitamin B6 helps in improving one’s state of health,

especially central nervous system, metabolism, hormonal imbalance, and

immune system function. Through food consumption and drinking supplements,

people can get a source of Vitamin B6 and other B vitamins. B6 is also

exceptionally known for treating skin conditions like skin dryness. Without the

presence of B6, people will suffer from the damaging effects of B6 deficiency

such as cracked skin and a weak immune system.

Despite the relevant information sourced from several studies, few to no

research explored the treatment of skin dryness, particularly cracked heels using

natural alternatives which are more eco-friendly and less costly. Such treatments

potentially increase sustainable development thus the need for natural

components as treatment arises. As a Vitamin B6 source, a banana has so

many skin benefits, but no research proves that the banana pseudostem could

help in curing skin-related diseases. Few studies also state that banana

pseudostem has benefits on the skin. This research would like to strengthen and
explore the possibilities of treating skin dryness through using the pseudostem

extract.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Research Design

The researchers used quantitative and experimental data in this research.

According to Fleetwood (2020), quantitative research is a systematic

investigation of phenomena by gathering quantifiable data and performing

statistical, mathematical, or computational techniques. It focuses on verifiable

observation as opposed to theory or logic. Experimental research is called true

experimentation. It uses the scientific method to establish the cause-effect

relationship among the variables that make up the study, specifically the banana

pseudostem extract and skin dryness. This type of research method is reliant on

a theory and this theory has not been proven in the past and is merely a

supposition.

Subject of the Study

The researchers used a banana pseudostem that was obtained from the

members’ available and proximal Musa acuminata × Musa balbisiana or Saba

banana trees. The banana pseudostem extraction was done through a

homemade process of scrapping its fibers or draining the pseudostem using a

cloth to filter out the pseudostem sap. Its extract, containing Vitamin B6, was

experimented with to test its effectiveness in alleviating skin dryness.

Procedure
 The researchers first conceptualized ideas for the research undertaking.

Consequently, the researchers gathered contextual information about the

chosen topic to be reviewed by their research adviser. After approval, the

researchers collected relevant information as related literature. The researchers

continued with experimental research.

The banana pseudostem was cut to expose the core which was utilized

as the source of the extract containing Vitamin B6 as the major component in

investigating its moisturizing and skin development properties. The pseudostem

was further divided into smaller pieces for easier manageability. Using a piece of

cloth, the pieces were drained to squeeze the extract out of the stem. The

researchers then performed the pasteurization/boiling method under 90°C for

approximately 5 minutes (Sharma et al., 2017). This was done to increase the

concentration of the extract and extend its shelf life.

The procedure of experimentation was aligned with the methods of Weber

et al. (2012) with a small number of modifications particularly reducing the

complexity of laboratory procedures. For the first stage of experimentation, an

assessment of subjects was done. The provided criteria for cracked heels was

used to evaluate the severity and status of the affected area. Once potential

subjects were selected, the researchers performed exclusion of subjects who

experience general illness and/or use any topical treatments that could hinder or

endanger the subjects or the performance of the study. After which, the carefully

selected subjects took part in a one-week preconditioning phase in which the

affected area was washed with standard mild soap twice daily. In this phase, the
researchers used the same type of bar soap that adheres to the selection criteria

of Weber et al. (2012) stating that the product to be selected should be neutral

as it does not contain any moisturizers. Contact with other skincare products and

with household cleaning products was forbidden during this period. The

treatment was applied two times a day over two weeks. Specifically, the product

was topically administered 10 to 20 hours after the last application.

Data Analysis

The data was analyzed through observational analysis. This type of

analysis is a systematic data collection approach. Researchers used all their

senses to examine the subjects undergoing the experimentation. For the

assessment of baseline and end status of skin dryness and the evaluation of the

efficacy of the banana pseudostem extract, the researchers adapted a simple

clinical grading scale developed by expert dermatologist Serup (1995) called

EEMCO guidance. This five-point scale practical research tool is both for

characterization of dry skin conditions and for efficacy substantiation of products.

After scoring the baseline and results of the experimentation, the researchers

compared three sets of data namely: Baseline, Week 1, and Result using

Wilcoxon's signed-rank test for collective evaluation. During the post-treatment

period, the average dryness score was computed along with the alleviated dry

skin symptoms and the current condition of the treated skin.

 Table A
Clinical grading scores for visible dryness and tactile roughness evaluations

SCORE VISIBLE DRYNESS TACTILE ROUGHNESS

0 – Absent None Perfectly smooth and
pliable
1 – Slight Slight scaling, slight Slightly irregular and
roughness, and dull rough on tangential
appearance tactile evaluation

2 – Moderate Small scales in Definitely irregular and

combination with a few rough and possibly
larger scales, slight slightly stiffened on
roughness, whitish vertical tactile evaluation
appearance

3 – Severe Small and larger scales Advanced irregularly

uniformly distributed, and rough feeling
definite roughness, associated with some
possibly somewhat red, stiffening
and possibly a few
superficial cracks

4 - Extreme Dominated by large Gross irregularly and

scales, advanced severe disturbance of
roughness, redness, skin markings and
eczematous changes, definite stiffening
and cracks

Source : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3424590/

Ethical Considerations
Since the research investigation involves humans as subjects, full

consent was obtained from the participants prior to the start of the study. A

consent letter approved by the Research Adviser, STEM Strand Coordinator,

and the Senior High School Principal was provided for all subjects who
participated in the experimentation. In the said letter, the researchers

guaranteed sufficient information and reassurance to the participants in able for

them to fully understand the ramifications of their participation and make an

educated, deliberate, and freely made decision about their participation in the

study without any pressure or coercion. Overall safety, protection, and

maximization of benefits while preventing the risk of harm to the participants are

all factors considered in the study. There were no personal biases or data

manipulations, and the experiment’s methodology was thoroughly documented.

The variables for the said research were only be utilized for study purposes, and

no one or thing was harmed or damaged as a result of it.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 1
Progress of Skin Conditions

Skin
Baseline Week 1 Result
Condition

1
 2

Table 1 presents the skin conditions from baseline, Week 1, and Result

as per the topical administration of the banana pseudostem extract. Baseline

pertains to pretreatment conditions, Week 1 is the mid-treatment condition, and

Results are the posttreatment skin conditions.

 The baseline skin conditions vary in severity in terms of visible dryness

but remains significantly similar as per tactile roughness. During the Week 1

Treatment Period which was recorded on the seventh day of the experiment

over the 14-day period, dry skin conditions were moderately alleviated. As per

tactile roughness, all skin conditions were clinically graded with moderate tactile

roughness. Roughness of all skin conditions were lessened compared to their

baseline conditions, but remain to be present to a sensory extent. However, Skin

Condition 3 still noted a “feeling of thickness” on the affected area.

Collectively, skin conditions in the final periodical assessment

demonstrated significantly higher magnitudes of skin pliability, skin maintenance,

smoothness, and visible moisture compared to their pretreatment statuses. The

abundance of Vitamin B6 in the applied banana pseudostem extract plays a vital

role in the efficacy of the extract in alleviating dry skin. Kato (2012) and Northstar

Dermatology (2021) supports this assumption by stating that Vitamin B6 is

essential for proper skin health, development, and maintenance. The

effectiveness of the banana pseudostem extract is supported by the findings of

Shukla (2020), despite the difference of the part utilized where it was stated that

banana leaves are an effective ingredient for skin creams and lotions to treat

various skin conditions.

 Table 2
Clinical Grading Score of Skin Conditions

Skin
Baseline Week 1 Result
Condition
Visual Tactile Visual Tactile Visual Tactile
Dryness Roughness Dryness Roughness Dryness Roughness

3 2 1 2 0 1
Average Dryness Score Average Dryness Score Average Dryness Score
1
2.5 - Definitely irregular 1.5 - Definitely irregular
and and rough and possibly 0.5 – No scaling and
rough and possibly slightly stiffened and roughness and slightly
slightly stiffened on slight scaling and slight irregular and rough tactile
vertical tactile evaluation roughness
Visual Tactile Visual Tactile Visual Tactile
Dryness Roughness Dryness Roughness Dryness Roughness

4 3 2 2 2 2
Average Dryness Score Average Dryness Score Average Dryness Score
2
3.5 - Dominated by
large scales, advanced 2 - Small scales, slight 2 - Small scales, slight
roughness with roughness and definitely roughness and definitely
Advanced irregularly and irregular and rough irregular and rough
rough feeling
Visual Tactile Visual Tactile Visual Tactile
Dryness Roughness Dryness Roughness Dryness Roughness
3 3 2 2 1 1
Average Dryness Score Average Dryness Score Average Dryness Score
3
3 - Small scales 2 - Small scales with 1 - Slight scaling and
uniformly distributed, roughness and slightly
slight roughness and
possibly somewhat red irregular and rough on
whitish appearance, and
and advanced irregular tangential tactile
definitely rough
and rough feeling evaluation
Visual Tactile Visual Tactile Visual Tactile
Dryness Roughness Dryness Roughness Dryness Roughness
4 3 2 2 0 0
Average Dryness Score Average Dryness Score Average Dryness Score
2 - Small scales in
combination with a few
4 3.5 - Dominated by larger scales, slight
large scales, advanced roughness, whitish
0 – No visible dryness
roughness and cracks, and perfectly smooth and
appearance, and
and advanced irregularly pliable
and rough feeling definitely irregular and
rough and possibly
stiffened
 Table 2 shows the assessment of skin conditions from Baseline, Week 1,

and Result as per the topical administration of the banana pseudostem extract.

Using the clinical grading scale or the EEMCO Guidance, all skin conditions

were clinically graded based on visual dryness and tactile roughness. After

which, the average dryness score was obtained by computing the mean of the

two previous scores along with their corresponding persistent symptoms.

The baseline skin conditions were clinically graded between severe and

extreme dryness as they demonstrate major persistent visible and tactile

symptoms of skin dryness, particularly cracked heels. On average, the severity

of all pretreatment skin conditions has a dryness score of 3.125 with a few

symptoms of extreme dryness based on the EEMCO guidance used as a clinical

grading scale. Such gravity of skin conditions is indicative of severe skin dryness

that are conducive for treatment using the banana pseudostem extract.

The results during the Week 1 period indicate that the banana

pseudostem extract marginally improved superficial skin hydration after one

week of regular twice-daily topical application. These results are relative since

dry skin symptoms are still evident and are not qualified to be graded 0 to 1 that

indicates healthy skin based on the five-point clinical grading scale.

Skin conditions on the posttreatment period showed dramatic

improvement both in terms of visible dryness and tactile roughness. Over the

two-week daily application of the banana pseudostem extract, majority of skin

conditions reduced severity based on the clinical grading scale with notable

developmental differences considering the initial status of the affected area.

 All in all, results are aligned with the characterization of Purnamawati et

al. (2017) on the effectiveness of humectants in treating dry skin wherein healthy

skin appearance is evident, as well as the reduction of fine lines, smoothening,

and hydration of skin. Furthermore, the average conditional score of the affected

area in the result condition is 0.875, all persistent and alleviated symptoms

aforementioned. Inclusively associating the efficacy of the extract, the average

dryness score at baseline was 3.125 significantly reduced this score to 1.875 at

Week 1 and 0.875 at Result. This comparison indicates that the banana

pseudostem extract drastically reduces the frequency of dry skin symptoms after

two weeks of topical administration and treatment. It is also notable that specific

dry skin conditions were treated during the Week 1 period. This actively

illustrates that the severity of the initial condition and skin tolerability affects the

time that it will take to be exposed to the discovered effects. Moreover, the

radical drop from the initial average score of all skin conditions implies that the

banana pseudostem extract alleviates skin dryness conditions in terms of visible

dryness – flaking and cracks – and tactile roughness through tactile evaluation.
PROJECT DESIGN

Title: Banana Pseudostem Extract Moisturizer

Objectives:

1. To create a cost-effective and eco-friendly moisturizer as an alternative to

commercial ones.

2. To maximize the use of banana trees and its parts with essential vitamins

to treat dry skin conditions.

3. To produce an organic moisturizer using banana pseudostem extract to

alleviate skin dryness, particularly cracked heels.

Description

Lotions and creams are used to moisturize skin. But not all skin products

are affordable because of high prices and effectivity is uncertain since people

have different types of skin. This banana pseudostem extract is rich in Vitamin

B6 that is associated in improving dry skin conditions. This organic product is

cost-effective and can easily be made especially that banana trees are endemic

in the Philippines and the extraction materials are accessible.

Materials:

• 1 banana pseudostem trunk

• Bolo or axe and kitchen knife

• Carpentry and latex gloves

• Cutting board
 • Thin cloth or mortar and pestle (for extraction)

• Containers

• Sieve

• Cooking pot

Illustration

Unwrapping the leaf Exposing the The pseudostem core

sheaths from the trunk pseudostem core

Straining the extracted

juice
Squeezing the
Pseudostem core cut
pseudostem pieces
into pieces
using cloth to extract
juices
 Topical application to
Obtained extract
Pasteurization of extract cracked heels

BEFORE AFTER 14 DAYS

CONCLUSION

1. Skin conditions drastically improved in terms of visible dryness and tactile

roughness after twice-daily topical application of the banana pseudostem

extract after two weeks.

2. Banana pseudostem extract for alleviating dry skin conditions particularly

cracked heels was developed.

RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Further study about other phytochemical constituents and uses of banana

pseudostem extract in for treating skin disorders.

2. Explore more ways of extracting the banana pseudostem extract using

laboratory equipment for increased concentration and conduct further

laboratory tests to isolate target vitamins and phytochemical constituents

present in the said extract.

3. For the medical experts, dermatologists, and the cosmetic industry, to

conduct a further study of the efficacy of banana pseudostem extract in

alleviating skin dryness.

4. For future researchers, to conduct a further study and support this

research in using the banana pseudostem extract as an alternative way in

treating dry skin.

5. For the community, for them to have a cost-effective and easily made

product to alleviate skin dryness.

6. For St. Bridget College, to provide support in the patent grant and

development of the banana pseudostem extract moisturizer.

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hindi/banana-leaf#banana-leaves-benefits-for-skin

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453-462.pdf.

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 APPENDICES

APPENDIX A

Letter to Participants

February 11, 2022

Name:
Position:
Address:

Dear Mr./Ms.:

Greetings of peace!

We, the Grade 12 students of Saint Bridget College, Senior High School Level, are
currently conducting a research titled: “Banana Pseudostem Extract as an
Alternative Source of Vitamin B6 for Alleviating Skin Dryness” as a partial
fulfillment of the requirements in our subject, Research 3.

In connection with this, we ask you to be one of our participants in the study that
we are conducting. Given the signs and symptoms that you have, it has the same
signs and symptoms in the skin dryness that we want to alleviate. In this
experiment that we will conduct, we will give you a banana pseudostem extract
cream that you will apply in the area where the dryness is and you will apply it for
2 weeks, twice a day. The banana pseudostem extract cream will be topically
applied 10 to 20 hours after the previous application and contact with other skin
care products is prohibited. During this time, you will be monitored in able for us to
evaluate if your dry skin condition has changed or improved.

Rest assured that all data gathered will be treated with utmost confidentiality and
will be used for academic purposes only. We will also send back to you a copy of
the responses for validation.

We are very hopeful for your favorable response regarding this

matter. Thank you and God bless.