Investigating Garlic (Allium Sativum) and Lemongrass (Cymbopogon) Extract as Eco-

Friendly Mold removers: Efficacy and Practical Appilication

A Research Proposal Presented to Evangeline Nudalo

Research Teacher in the Senior High School Department
SOGOD NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL

In Partial Fulfilment
of the Requirement for Inquiries, Investigation and Immersion for Science, Technology,
Engineering, and Mathematics

Aguylo
Atuel
Aupe
Camillo
Dizon
Garcia
Langaman
Lapore
Lora
Puntod
Tenio

2nd Semester, SY 2023-2024

 Abstract

This study investigated the efficacy of natural anti-fungal alternatives for mold

removal. Pure garlic and lemongrass extracts exhibited promising fungicidal activity against

common house mold on inoculated plywood samples. Interestingly, mixtures and diluted

solutions were less effective, suggesting potential interaction or dilution effects. Notably, pure

garlic extract emerged as the most potent solution. However, its practical application might be

limited by strong odor and staining. This research highlights the potential of natural extracts,

particularly pure garlic, for mold control, but emphasizes the need for further exploration of

alternative natural anti-fungals with similar efficacy and reduced drawbacks. This paves the way

for the development of environmentally friendly and user-friendly mold removal methods

leveraging the power of natural plant extracts.

1
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Title page
Abstract 1
Table of contents 2
CHAPTER
I. INTRODUCTION
Background of the study 3
Framework of the study 4
Statement of the problem 5
Statement of the hypothesis 5
Significance of the study 5
Scope and delimitations 6
Definition of terms 7
II. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE 8

III. METHODOLOGY
Research Design 17
Research Locale 17
Research Subject 17
Research Instrument 18
Research Procedure 18
Statistical Treatment of Data 19
IV. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 20 - 22

V. FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS 23 - 25

2
 Chapter 1
Background of the Study

According to Khun & Ghannoum (2003), damp buildings frequently smell musty or have

apparent mold growth, which poses health hazards owing to certain molds. Concerns about

mold-infested interior areas have prompted research on moisture- and mold-damaged structures.

There have been reports of serious diseases linked to Stachybotrys chartarum exposure, although

the research on indoor mold and health is complicated. While some studies link mold exposure to

human sickness, shortcomings in study techniques render results ambiguous. As a result, there is

no evidence to suggest that modern Stachybotrys exposure causes major disease. Addressing

indoor mold-related health risks need immediate study using objective markers, applicable

models, and comprehensive epidemiological methodologies. And research overcomes this issue

by employing standard mold removers, which involve harsh, heavy chemicals that might cause

environmental difficulties.

Previous research has focused on the antibacterial properties of various substances,

including garlic. However, the effectiveness of these natural antimicrobials against mold is not

well documented. Furthermore, concerns exist regarding the lack of consistency in the

preparation and application of these natural extracts. This inconsistency makes it difficult to

compare the results of different studies and determine the optimal concentration or application

method for practical use. Additionally, a limited understanding exists regarding the mechanisms

by which these extracts combat mold growth.

Conventional mold removal methods often rely on harsh chemicals, raising

environmental and health concerns. Garlic and lemongrass extracts offer a potentially safer and

3
more eco-friendly solution. Proponents of these natural extracts suggest that they can improve

indoor air quality and human health by suppressing mold growth and its associated respiratory

problems. However, there is a lack of data to fully support these claims.

This study aims to address these knowledge gaps by thoroughly evaluating the

effectiveness and safety of garlic and lemongrass extracts against mold. It will investigate the

ability of these extracts to suppress mold growth at various concentrations. The study will also

explore the environmental impact of using these extracts in mold remediation. By filling these

gaps, the study hopes to provide a solid foundation for the future use of these natural alternatives

in mold treatment. This will allow for a more informed decision-making process regarding the

selection of safe and effective methods for mold removal.

Framework of the study

PROCESS

 Cultivation of molds,
collecting of lemongrass
OUTPUT
and garlic and other
materials needed. -Effectiveness
Lemongrass
of garlic and
Garlic  Blending of lemongrass lemon grass
and garlic. extract as
Water
 Treatment-test 1
 Treatment- test 2
 Treatment-test 3

4
Statement of the problem

This study investigates the potential of garlic and lemongrass extracts as cost-effective

and accessible mold removers, particularly in resource-constrained areas. The research will

assess their efficacy against common household molds compared to commercial removers,

focusing on different concentrations of the extracts, alone or combined. Durability of the

antifungal properties will also be examined to determine reapplication needs in comparison to

commercial products. Finally, the study will explore practical applications and safety

considerations for using these extracts in real-world settings, providing valuable insights into

their potential as a viable alternative for mold removal.

Statement of hypothesis

We expect that extracts of garlic and lemongrass will have antifungal effects by

suppressing or eliminating mold development on a surface as compared to a control group. This

project seeks to determine the efficacy of these natural extracts as possible mold removers.

Significance of the study

This study is significant to manufacturers to produce an alternative molds removal, to

consumers, to department of health , health workers for them to stop the molds to multiply

specially in our community and to reduce the health concerns in the community and prevent the

5
damage of the property due to its dirty appearance it creates. This study is also significant to

future researchers of the study as this study will provide them their needed information and will

be the basis for further research that regards in this topic. The beneficiary of the study are as of

as follows.

Homeowners - this study will benefit the homeowners for them to stop the molds to multiply in

their homes.

Consumers- This study will benefit the consumers because they can have alternative source of

organic molds removal.

Department of Health - to reduce the health concerns in a community and to prevent the damages

of properties that created by the molds .

Community - this study helps the community to prevent harmful diseases to human health.

Environment - it helps to stop the molds to multiply .

Scope and limitations

This study looks at the efficiency of garlic and lemongrass extracts as mold removers on

plywood surfaces contaminated with ordinary home mold. The study will compare the

effectiveness of specified amounts of each extract administered in a specific way to create mold

colonies. The effectiveness will be determined by the reduction of mold in the affected area. The

scope of this study is confined to the aforementioned criteria; it does not include examinations

into the mechanism of action, long-term preventive benefits, commercial product development,

comparisons with commercial removers, or the extracts' environmental impact. This targeted

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approach will allow for a full investigation of the plant extracts' potential as mold removers on

plywood surfaces.

Definition of terms

Garlic (Allium sativum) and other Alllium species have antibacterial and antifungal

properties. In laboratory studies with the fungus Aspergillus niger, researchers found that

Alllium extract can inhibit the growth of the mold.

Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus) has antifungal properties. Fungi are organisms like

yeasr and mold. According to a 1996 study by a reliable source, lemongrass oil was an effective

control agent against four types of fungi.

Mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) Mold is a special form of fungal reproduction with many

structural variations.

Wall mold grows in places with moisture, such as around the roof , window or pipes or

after flood. Mold forms on many materials such as paper, cardboard, tiles and wood. Mold can

form in things like dust, paint, wallpaper, insulation, drywall, carpet, fabrics, and upholstery

7
 Chapter 2

Review Related Literature

Importance of Eco-Friendly Mold Removal:

Smith (2021) emphasizes the significance of eco-friendly mold removal techniques in

maintaining indoor air quality. She discusses how traditional mold removal methods often

involve harsh chemicals that can harm both human health and the environment. By adopting eco-

friendly alternatives, such as natural cleaners and non-toxic mold remediation products,

individuals can effectively eliminate mold while reducing their ecological footprint.The

importance of eco-friendly mold removal practices highlights the adverse effects of traditional

chemical-based methods on both human health and the environment, advocating for the adoption

of sustainable alternatives. Smith's discussion underscores the crucial role of eco-friendly

solutions in promoting indoor air quality and overall environmental well-being.

Green (2020) delves into the environmental ramifications of mold removal practices, shedding

light on the necessity of adopting eco-friendly approaches. He discusses how conventional mold

remediation techniques often contribute to pollution and resource depletion. In contrast, eco-

friendly methods prioritize sustainability by utilizing biodegradable products and minimizing

waste generation, thereby mitigating the environmental impact of mold removal

effort.Environmental consequences associated with mold removal activities. By elucidating the

adverse effects of conventional approaches on ecosystems and natural resources, Green

underscores the urgency of transitioning to eco-friendly alternatives. His insights emphasize the

8
intrinsic link between environmental sustainability and mold remediation practices, advocating

for a more conscious approach to indoor air quality management.

Jones (2022) advocates for eco-friendly mold remediation as a means of safeguarding both

human health and environmental integrity. She discusses the potential health risks associated

with exposure to toxic mold and highlights the role of sustainable practices in minimizing these

hazards. By prioritizing eco-friendly solutions, such as natural ventilation and organic mold

inhibitors, individuals can effectively address mold infestations while promoting the well-being

of occupants and the planet.Emily Jones underscores the dual benefits of eco-friendly mold

remediation in preserving human health and environmental sustainability. By elucidating the

adverse health effects linked to mold exposure, Jones underscores the critical importance of

adopting sustainable remediation techniques. Her advocacy for eco-friendly solutions reflects a

holistic approach to indoor air quality management, emphasizing the interconnectedness of

human well-being and ecological preservation.

Greenfield (2023) provides a comprehensive guide to eco-conscious mold abatement,

emphasizing the long-term benefits of sustainable practices. The article explores how

environmentally friendly approaches not only safeguard indoor air quality but also contribute to

a more resilient and ecologically balanced living environment. By prioritizing sustainability in

mold removal, individuals can actively participate in creating healthier homes and

communities.Sustainable mold abatement, highlighting the far-reaching advantages of eco-

9
conscious practices. The article delves into the positive impacts on indoor air quality and the

broader ecological landscape, showcasing how adopting sustainable mold removal methods

aligns with the goal of creating healthier living environments. Greenfield's insights provide

actionable steps for individuals to integrate eco-friendly practices into their home maintenance

routines.

The DryRestorations (n. d.) emphasized that, opting for eco-friendly mold remediation methods

brings several advantages over traditional ones, such as efficient mold removal, safety for

occupants and workers, minimal environmental impact, cost savings, better indoor air quality,

and backing sustainable practices and businesses. By selecting these methods, you can

effectively tackle mold problems while prioritizing health and environmental concerns. In other

terms, one such benefit of using eco-friendly substances as mold removers is the lowered risks of

harm it does to the environment and to personnel when used, while effectively removing molds.

An et al. (2017) mentioned that eco-friendly lignin/polycaprolactone nanofiber membranes

efficiently prevent mold colonization and invasion in pine sapwood, potentially improving public

hygiene.Eco-friendly lignin/polycaprolactone nanofiber membranes act as a barrier against mold

colonization and invasion in pine sapwood by creating a protective layer, thereby reducing the

risk of microbial growth and decay. This improvement in public hygiene stems from the

prevention of mold proliferation, which can cause health hazards and structural damage.

10
Properties and used of lemongrass:

Ilyas et al.(2021) states that cymbopogan citratus, the scientific name for lemongrass, is a

member of the Poaceae family, which is well-known for having a high lignin, hemicellulose, and

cellulose content. Because of this plant's remarkable antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, and

anti-inflammatory qualities, it is frequently used in pharmaceutical activities.Lemongrass, with

its rich content of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, is extensively employed in

pharmacological applications due to its potent antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-

inflammatory properties.

Economakis and Tzortzakis (2007) cited that in storage and packing, lemongrass essential oil

provides an alternative to synthetic fungicides and food preservatives due to its antifungal action

against important postharvest infections.Lemongrass essential oil serves as a natural substitute

for synthetic fungicides and food preservatives during storage and packaging, offering effective

protection against significant postharvest infections with its potent antifungal properties.

The essential oil extracted from lemongrass leaves contained flavonoids, tannins, saponins,

steroids, terpenoids, and coumarins, among other phytochemicals. Using the agar well diffusion

method, the antibacterial activity of essential oil extracted from lemongrass leaves was evaluated

against six possible pathogens, (Gopikrishna et al.,2021). The diverse array of phytochemicals

present in lemongrass essential oil, including flavonoids, tannins, saponins, steroids, terpenoids,

and coumarins, was systematically investigated for its antibacterial efficacy against six potential

pathogens using the agar well diffusion method.

Bahmani and Schmidt (2018) emphasizes that among all the oils tested, thyme and lemon grass

proved to be the most efficient against fungus.Lemongrass oil and thyme oil exhibited

11
remarkable effectiveness against all tested fungi, indicating their potent antifungal properties and

suggesting their potential as natural alternatives for controlling fungal infections.

Benefits of Garlic:

Garlic, an annual herb from the Alliaceae family, is known for its flavor and medicinal

properties. It contains vitamins, minerals, and essential oil, and has antimicrobial,

antiinflammatory, anticancer, cardiovascular, and immunomodulatory properties due to its

chemical components. (Saif et al., 2020).Garlic is scientifically known as Allium sativum L., is a

perennial herb from the Alliaceae family, renowned for its distinctive flavor and extensive

medicinal properties. With a rich history of use in culinary, medicinal, and spiritual practices,

fresh garlic is packed with vitamins, minerals, and trace elements beneficial for human health. Its

essential oil and diverse chemical components contribute to its pharmacological activities,

including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardiovascular, and immunomodulatory

effects.

Tan et al. (2017) cited that Garlic is a powerful plant with immune-boosting properties, anti-

tumor, antioxidant properties, and potential use in cardiovascular diseases. Its active principle,

allicin, has antimicrobial activities against various bacteria, yeast, parasites, and viruses. Its main

antimicrobial effect is due to its chemical reaction with enzymes, affecting cysteine proteinase

activity. Garlic extract is also fungicidal against soil-borne fungal organisms, with concentrations

varying depending on root substrate.Garlic's remarkable properties, including its ability to

enhance the immune system, combat tumors, and act as an antioxidant. Additionally, garlic is

known for its effectiveness in managing cardiovascular diseases by regulating blood pressure and

influencing glycaemia and cholesterol levels. Allicin, a key compound in garlic, exhibits various

antimicrobial activities, such as antibacterial effects against both Gram-negative and Gram-

12
positive bacteria, antifungal activity against Candida albicans, and antiparasitic activity against

parasites like Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia. Allicin's mechanism involves chemical

reactions with thiol groups in enzymes crucial for microbial metabolism, ultimately impacting

their virulence. Moreover, garlic extract demonstrates fungicidal properties against a wide range

of soil-borne fungal organisms. The concentration required for this effect varies depending on

the root substrate, as noted in the study.

Garlic, a medicinal and culinary plant, has been used by ancient medical figures like

Hippocrates, Pliny, and Aristotle for its sulfur-containing compounds, high mineral content, and

antioxidant properties (De Gruyter, 2008).Garlic (Allium sativum) holds a revered status

globally for its medicinal and culinary significance, with historical mentions by early medical

figures like Hippocrates, Pliny, and Aristotle. As the second most utilized supplement, garlic's

sulfur-containing compounds, trace minerals, and enzymes contribute to its diverse health

benefits. These include its demonstrated abilities as an anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and

antioxidant agent, as highlighted in the narrative review by Bongiorno et al. (2008) published in

the Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine by De Gruyter.

Since 3,000 BC, people have produced garlic (Allium sativum L.) as a spice and medicinal

vegetable all across the world. Garlic's primary ingredient, allicin, is responsible for the majority

of its biological properties, including bactericidal, antifungal, and antiviral effects. On the other

hand, garlic contains other chemicals that have hypocholesterolemic, vasodilator,

immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and preventive properties against many cancers. ( Burian et al.,

2017)

Fungal infections can cause severe illness and even death, especially in persons with weakened

immune systems. Garlic components have the following effects: they lower cholesterol levels

13
(hypocholesterolemic), enlarge blood vessels (vasodilator), regulate the immune system

(immunomodulatory), defend against cell damage (antioxidant), and may reduce the chance of

acquiring certain types of cancer.

Allium sativum (garlic) has been recognized not only as a spice but also as a substance which

exerts a control on microorganisms. Recent publications indicate that garlic extract has broad-

spectrum antimicrobial activity against many genera of bacteria and fungi. The active component

(allicin) has been isolated and characterized. ( Adetumbi et al., 1983) Since large number of

medically significant bacteria are vulnerable to garlic extract, because garlic has a promising

future as a broad-spectrum therapeutic agent. Garlic plants are also crucial to the ecological

regulation of harmful microbes in the natural world.

Many plant extracts, their volatile components, and their essential oils have all been shown to

exhibit potent antifungal action in recent years. Plant extracts, essential oils, and their constituent

parts are becoming more and more popular in the agriculture industry because to their wide

consumer acceptance, volatility, and generally safe status. They are also environmentally and

biodegradable. Certain'medicinal' plant extracts and essential oils have been shown to be

efficacious against bacterial and fungal infections.

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) has been used for centuries for culinary purposes and its medicinal

properties in traditional and conventional medicine are well documented.The wide range of

antifungal and antibacterial activities of garlic has been largely attributed to the presence of high

concentrations of sulphur-containing compounds. ( Chanel et al., 2015)

14
Measurement of mold growth:

Ebrahimi et al. (2015) cited that The common method for manually measuring the area of

a colony involves measuring its diameters in two perpendicular directions and approximating the

area, or using tracing paper to outline the colony's shape, then transferring the outline to graph

paper and counting the squares. In other words, on common practice of measuring mold growth

is by direct observation along with tracing the mold Using paper and graphing paper.

The k-means clustering method was employed to partition multi-spectral images of mold

colonies on petri dishes into distinct segments, allowing for the quantification of various parts of

the mold colonies (Ebrahimi et. al 2015). In simple terms, by grouping each mold by clusters one

can measure the amount of mold in a certain area.

The MoldMaking Technology (n.d.) stated that, traditional methods for measuring molds usually

involve manual processes using tools like vernier calipers or micrometers. While certain

attributes like width, height, and depth can be accurately measured, determining the curvature of

surfaces and concave areas is difficult. These methods are complex, time-consuming, and can

pose challenges in ensuring the accuracy and quality of large mold measurements. As described,

there existed a traditional way of measuring mold. The only draw back it had was it was time

consuming and must be very precise.

15
Molds and bacteria were present in some numbers in new furniture stuffing, and in considerably

greater numbers in some used materials ,(Swaebly & Christensen ,1952)Mold and bacteria can

be present in new furniture stuffing due to environmental factors during production or storage. In

used materials, higher numbers may result from prolonged exposure to varying conditions,

providing a conducive environment for microbial growth. Both scenarios highlight the

importance of proper storage and handling to minimize the potential for mold and bacteria

development.

16
 Chapter 3

Research Methodology

Research Design

This section includes the details of how the study was conducted that is, the plans for

different stages. Experiment, tools and specific procedure or techniques. Experimental design is

used in our study on garlic and lemongrass extract. According to Roger E Kirk

(2009),Experiments are characterized by the manipulation of independent variables, use of

controls such as randomly assigning participants or experimental units to independent variables,

and careful observation or measurement of dependent variables.

Research Locale

The purpose of this study is to look into the efficacy of garlic extract as a mold

eradication agent in a residential property in Barangay San Pedro, Sogod, Southern Leyte,

Philippines. The airflow in the room will be evaluated in order to prevent mold spore

dissemination. If possible, a comparable space with no mold development will be used as a

control for the experiment. A preliminary test on an inconspicuous part of the mold will be

carried out to validate the extract's efficacy. This research requires the homeowner's permission.

Research Subject

The study will comprise plywood samples exhibiting observable mold growth, sourced

from various environments and conditions to ensure a representative range of scenarios. These

plywood specimens will be systematically treated with varying concentrations of garlic and

17
lemongrass, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the efficacy of these natural substances

in mitigating and removing molds from plywood surfaces under diverse circumstances.

Research Instrument

The experiment will utilize four separate pieces of plywood, each placed at a distance

from the others. Molds will be laid out across each plywood piece, and they will be properly

labeled according to the concentration of the administered solution. All in a controlled condition.

To check if there were any significant changes regarding the measurement of the amount

of mold after administering the solution, we will use Visual Inspection to look for changes in the

appearance of the mold-infested area before and after using the remover. Looking for any

reduction in mold growth, discoloration, or presence of mold spores. Every occurring reaction to

the mold removers will be rated in a scale of 1 - 5 regarding it's effectiveness, namely: 1 -

Minimal Effectiveness 2 - Low Effectiveness 3 - Moderate Effectiveness 4 - High Effectiveness

5 - Exceptional Effectiveness.

Research Procedure

According to Yongpeng (2015), the optimal ratio for a mold remover varies depending on

the application. Mold removers come in a range of formulas tailored to certain needs. In

accordance with Meng (2015), a mold-removing cleaning solution comprises certain

concentrations of EDTA, sodium sulfate, potassium sorbate, sodium carbonate, and a defoaming

agent. As a result, the appropriate ratio for a mold remover depends on its intended use and the

exact components required for effective mold removal. The researchers decided to try multiple

treatments with varied ratios.

18
In making the product, the first thing that the researchers will going to do is to prepare the

materials or things that will be used especially the Garlic and Lemongrass. After preparing, the

next thing to do is wash and rinsed the garlic and lemongrass to eliminate any dirt or other items

that had been attached. Second, blend the garlic using a electrical blender. Third, prepare the

lemongrass and boil it. Fourth, perform treatment - test using this following ratio:

 50% water 25% garlic 25% lemon 1:2:2

 50% water 50% garlic 1:1

 50% water 50% lemon 1:1

 50% garlic 50% lemon 1:1

 100% lemon 1:0

 100% garlic 1:0

Statistical Treatment of Data

In our research investigating the efficacy of garlic and lemongrass extracts as eco-

friendly mold removers, we conducted a visual inspection-based analysis to observe the

effectiveness of different treatments. Treatments were applied to mold-infested surfaces, and the

extent of mold removal was visually assessed and scored on a scale from 1 (minimal

effectiveness) to 5 (exceptional effectiveness) by multiple observers. The mean scores and

standard deviations were calculated for each treatment group, providing insights into the average

effectiveness and variability of the treatmentsThis approach allowed for a qualitative assessment

of the effectiveness of garlic and lemongrass extracts as mold removers, offering valuable

insights for their practical application in eco-friendly mold remediation strategies.

19
 Chapter 4

Results and Discussion

Introduction

The information that will support the study’s are provided in this chapter, Additionally the

researchers will offer an analysis and interpretation to the gathered data. This chapter will

provide an overview of the tests that were carried out as part of this research project’s

experimental program.

Table 1
Scale of Effectiveness
Treatment Ratio Efficacy

1. Water 25ml, Garlic 25ml 1:1 4

2. Water 25ml, Garlic 12.5ml, Lemongrass 12.5ml 1:2:2 3

3. Lemongrass 25ml, Water 25ml 1:1 2

4. Garlic 25ml, Lemongrass 25ml 1:1 4

5. Lemongrass 50ml 1:0 3

6. Garlic 50ml 1:0 5

Legend: 1 = Minimal effectiveness, 2 = Low effectiveness,
3 = Moderate, 4 = High Effectiveness, 5 = Exceptional Effectiveness

The tabulated data clearly shows that garlic is more effective than lemongrass. This is

true even when they are mixed in equal proportions, with pure garlic being the most effective.

20
Among the six treatments studied, garlic consistently emerges as the most efficacious option.

Interestingly, adding water to the treatment seems to decrease its effectiveness. Similarly,

combining lemongrass and garlic results in lower efficacy compared to using them individually.

Figure 1.

Effectiveness of the Solution

6

0
Treatment 1 Treatment 2 Treatment 3 Treatment 4 Treatment 5 Treatment 6

The graph indicates that treatments 1 and 4 have the same rate of efficacy, which is

(4). We may infer that 25 ml of garlic and water is equally effective as 25 ml of garlic and

lemongrass. Treatment 3, which consists of 25 ml of lemongrass and water, had the

lowest efficacy which is rated as (2). We may conclude that 25 ml of water and 12.5 ml of garlic

and 12.5 ml lemongrass have the same rate of efficacy, 3. Finally, in treatment 6, 50 ml of garlic

21
has the maximum level of remarkable efficacy. We may infer that treatment 1 and 4 is high

effectiveness; treatment 2 and 5 is moderate effectiveness; treatment 3 is poor effectiveness; and

treatment 6 exceptional effectiveness

Our findings show a considerable variation in effectiveness. Pure garlic extract had a

stronger fungicidal impact than lemongrass extract. When garlic and lemongrass were combined

at a concentration of 12.5 mL, their ability to remove mold reduced to a moderate level. The

combination of both extracts resulted in reduced fungicidal activity, indicating a possible

antagonistic interaction between the two. This implies that combination usage at lower dosages

may not give sufficient potency. Using 25 mL of garlic proved to be quite efficient in mold

elimination. Furthermore, the use of 25 mL of lemongrass exhibited minimal efficiency in mold

elimination. However, when the concentration of lemongrass was raised to 50 mL, its impact

remained moderate, demonstrating potency limits when compared to garlic.

22
 Chapter 5

Summary of Findings

Building on previous research, our findings support the use of garlic as natural

antifungal agents for household mold management. Douglas L. Holt and Nurys Gomez-Almonte

(1995) discovered that garlic extracts inhibited the formation of molds often seen in vegetables.

While their efficacy may vary depending on the mold species, Similarly. Gopikrishna et al.

(2021) found that lemongrass leaves contain a wide range of antifungal chemicals, including

flavonoids and terpenoids. This is consistent with the findings of Bahmani and Schmidt (2018),

who discovered that lemongrass oil has strong antifungal activity against a variety of fungi, these

studies, together with our own, clearly imply that garlic and lemongrass hold potential as safe

and environmentally friendly methods for limiting domestic mold development. This study

demonstrates the antifungal properties of both garlic and lemongrass extracts is effective against

common household molds. However, our findings reveal a significant difference in their

efficacy. Pure garlic extract exhibited a superior fungicidal effect compared to lemongrass

extract. When both garlic and lemongrass were combine, their effectiveness in mold removal

decreased to a moderate level. the combination of these extracts resulted in a diminished

fungicidal activity, suggesting a potential antagonistic interaction between the two. This suggests

that combined use at lower concentrations may not provide sufficient potency.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study found garlic to be a good natural option for mold elimination,

exceeding lemongrass in efficacy. Pure garlic extract at higher doses (50 ml) showed great

efficacy in inhibiting mold development. Interestingly, diluting garlic with water or mixing it

23
with lemongrass at lower quantities (12.5 ml each) reduced its antifungal activity, indicating a

minimal threshold for good effects. These findings underscore the need for more study into the

exact processes by which garlic combats mold and the most effective administration techniques

(spray, paste, etc.) for practical usage. This understanding will be essential for creating safe and

environmentally friendly garlic-based mold removers. Overall, this study provides a strong

foundation for future investigations into the potential of natural extracts as viable alternatives to

harsh chemical mold removers, promoting a more sustainable approach to indoor mold control.

Reccomendations

Based on the outcomes of this study and the evident advantage of garlic extract, the following

recommendations are made for further research:

1. Investigating gradual effectiveness through longer durational tests: The researchers

recommend using the same procedure in this research but allotting move time to

maximize every effect as much as possible.

2. Total focus test on Garlic effectiveness as mold removers: As a control for

"Stachybotrys" molds, conduct a study with more garlic extract

3. Exploring Alternative Natural Extracts: The Researchers would like to suggest the use

of orange extract for potential ingredients for mold removers .

4. Impact of Temperature on Efficacy: The researcher recommended adding another

factor to the experiment. increasing the temperature of the extract to see if higher

temperatures can cause higher reactivity.

24
5. Durability of Efficacy: This study assessed the effectiveness of garlic extract at the

time of application. Future research should investigate the long-term efficacy of garlic

extract to determine how long it remains effective in suppressing mold growth. This

could involve monitoring treated surfaces over several weeks or months to assess if

reapplication is necessary.

25
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Adetumbi, M. A., & Lau, B. H. (1983). Allium sativum (garlic)--a natural antibiotic. Medical
hypotheses, 12(3), 227–237.
Bahmani, M., & Schmidt, O. (2018). Plant essential oils for environment-friendly protection of
wood objects against fungi. Maderas. Ciencia y tecnología, 20(3), 325-332.
Bongiorno P., Fratellone P. and LoGiudice P., Published by De Gruyter January 20, 2008
Potential Health Benefits of Garlic (Allium Sativum): From the journal Journal of
Complementary and Integrative Medicine.
Burian, J. P., Sacramento, L. V. S., & Carlos, I. Z. (2017). Fungal infection control by garlic
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