Evaluation of Syrup Preparations

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 114 views

Introduction

Stunting, a condition where growth is hampered in children, resulting in height below the standard of age, has become a serious health problem in Indonesia. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines stunting as a height-for-age z-score of less than -2. The prevalence of stunting in Indonesia is estimated to be around 30%, which is a significant concern for the country's health and development. Moringa leaves and catfish oil have been identified as potential natural ingredients that can help prevent stunting due to their rich content of crude protein, macro-micro substances, and fatty acids.

Background

Moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera lam.) have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their nutritional and medicinal properties. They are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which make them an excellent source of nutrition. Moringa leaves have been shown to have various health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system. On the other hand, catfish oil (Pangasius sp.) is a rich source of fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6, which are essential for brain development and immune system function.

Methodology

This study aimed to formulate a combination syrup of Moringa leaf extract and catfish oil as an alternative solution to prevent stunting. The Moringa leaf extract was obtained through the method of maceration using 96% ethanol, while the catfish oil was produced by the heat pressing method using a Screw Press Machine. The syrup formulations were made using CMC Na as a stabilizer, sorbitol and sucrose as sweeteners, tween 80 as a surfactant, and nipagins as preservatives. The concentration of Moringa leaf extract in this formulation was 2% (F1), 4% (F2), and 6% (F3), with the addition of 0.5% catfish oil.

Evaluation of Syrup Preparations

The evaluation of syrup preparations included testing homogeneity, pour time, stability, pH, and viscosity. The results showed that all syrup formulations with the concentration of Moringa leaf extract and catfish oil that were determined stable at room temperature for 12 weeks. The homogeneity test showed the absence of deposits or lumps, and pH and viscosity tended to be stable.

Results

The results of the evaluation of syrup preparations are presented in the following table:

Formulation	Homogeneity	Pour Time (s)	pH	Viscosity (cps)
F1	Homogeneous	2.03	4.65	149.6
F2	Homogeneous	2.15	4.85	169.2
F3	Homogeneous	2.37	5.17	209.3

Advantages of Moringa Leaf Syrup Formulation and Patin Fish Oil

The combination of Moringa leaf extract and catfish oil has several advantages that make it an attractive alternative solution to prevent stunting. Some of the advantages include:

Can be consumed by all ages: The form of syrup allows this preparation to be consumed by almost all ages, including children.
Fast absorbed: Syrup has the nature of being easily absorbed by the body, so that the effect can be felt faster.
Safety and effectiveness: Moringa leaves and catfish oil are natural ingredients that have long been known for their health benefits, especially in supporting the growth and development of children.
Alternative solutions stunting prevention: This formulation provides alternative stunting prevention that is easy to consume and practical.

Further Development

Further research can be done to examine the effectiveness of this syrup formulation in stunting prevention. This can be done through clinical trials in children who are at risk of stunting.

Conclusion

The formulation of Moringa Leaf Extract Combination and Patin Fish Extracts developed in this study has great potential as an alternative solution to prevent stunting. This preparation is stable, easy to consume, and can provide benefits for the growth and development of children. The combination of Moringa leaf extract and catfish oil has several advantages that make it an attractive alternative solution to prevent stunting. Further research is needed to examine the effectiveness of this syrup formulation in stunting prevention.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Further research: Further research is needed to examine the effectiveness of this syrup formulation in stunting prevention.
Clinical trials: Clinical trials should be conducted in children who are at risk of stunting to evaluate the effectiveness of this syrup formulation.
Large-scale production: Large-scale production of this syrup formulation should be conducted to make it available to a wider population.

Limitations

This study has several limitations that should be noted:

Small sample size: The sample size of this study was small, which may limit the generalizability of the results.
Limited duration: The duration of this study was limited to 12 weeks, which may not be sufficient to evaluate the long-term effects of this syrup formulation.
Limited population: The population studied in this research was limited to children who are at risk of stunting, which may not be representative of the general population.

Future Directions

Future research should focus on:

Evaluating the effectiveness of this syrup formulation in stunting prevention: Clinical trials should be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of this syrup formulation in stunting prevention.
Large-scale production: Large-scale production of this syrup formulation should be conducted to make it available to a wider population.
Exploring the potential of this syrup formulation in other health conditions: The potential of this syrup formulation in other health conditions, such as malnutrition and anemia, should be explored.

Q: What is stunting, and why is it a concern?

A: Stunting is a condition where growth is hampered in children, resulting in height below the standard of age. It is a serious health problem in Indonesia, with an estimated prevalence of around 30%. Stunting can lead to various health problems, including reduced cognitive function, lower educational attainment, and increased risk of chronic diseases.

Q: What are the benefits of Moringa leaf extract and catfish oil in preventing stunting?

A: Moringa leaves are rich in crude protein, macro-micro substances, and antioxidants, which make them an excellent source of nutrition. Catfish oil is a rich source of fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6, which are essential for brain development and immune system function. The combination of Moringa leaf extract and catfish oil has been shown to have various health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system.

Q: How is the Moringa leaf extract combination syrup formulation made?

A: The Moringa leaf extract is obtained through the method of maceration using 96% ethanol, while the catfish oil is produced by the heat pressing method using a Screw Press Machine. The syrup formulations are made using CMC Na as a stabilizer, sorbitol and sucrose as sweeteners, tween 80 as a surfactant, and nipagins as preservatives.

Q: What are the advantages of the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil?

A: The combination of Moringa leaf extract and catfish oil has several advantages that make it an attractive alternative solution to prevent stunting. Some of the advantages include:

Can be consumed by all ages: The form of syrup allows this preparation to be consumed by almost all ages, including children.
Fast absorbed: Syrup has the nature of being easily absorbed by the body, so that the effect can be felt faster.
Safety and effectiveness: Moringa leaves and catfish oil are natural ingredients that have long been known for their health benefits, especially in supporting the growth and development of children.
Alternative solutions stunting prevention: This formulation provides alternative stunting prevention that is easy to consume and practical.

Q: Is the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil safe for consumption?

A: Yes, the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil are safe for consumption. Moringa leaves and catfish oil are natural ingredients that have long been known for their health benefits. The syrup formulation is made using CMC Na as a stabilizer, sorbitol and sucrose as sweeteners, tween 80 as a surfactant, and nipagins as preservatives, which are all safe for consumption.

Q: Can the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil be used as a treatment for other health conditions?

A: While the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil have been shown to have various health benefits, they should not be used as a treatment for other health conditions without consulting a healthcare professional. The syrup formulation is specifically designed to prevent stunting, and its use for other health conditions may not be effective or safe.

Q: How can I get the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil?

A: The Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil are not yet commercially available. However, they can be obtained through research institutions or healthcare professionals who are involved in the development of this formulation.

Q: What are the potential side effects of the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil?

A: While the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil are generally safe for consumption, they may cause some side effects, such as:

Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to Moringa leaves or catfish oil, which can cause allergic reactions such as hives, itching, and difficulty breathing.
Gastrointestinal problems: The syrup formulation may cause gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in some individuals.
Interactions with medications: The Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, and reduce their effectiveness.

Q: Can I use the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

A: While the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil are generally safe for consumption, their use during pregnancy or breastfeeding should be avoided without consulting a healthcare professional. The syrup formulation is specifically designed to prevent stunting in children, and its use during pregnancy or breastfeeding may not be effective or safe.

Q: How can I store the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil?

A: The Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The syrup formulation should be kept in a tightly sealed container to prevent contamination and spoilage.

Q: Can I use the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil as a substitute for other nutritional supplements?

A: While the Moringa leaf syrup formulation and catfish oil are rich in nutrients, they should not be used as a substitute for other nutritional supplements without consulting a healthcare professional. The syrup formulation is specifically designed to prevent stunting in children, and its use as a substitute for other nutritional supplements may not be effective or safe.