The Function of African Camwood as an Active Ingredient in Bar Soap Formulations and Skin Care Products
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: African camwood, botanically known as Baphia nitida, is an important medicinal and cosmetic plant widely distributed across West Africa, especially in Nigeria, Ghana, Cameroon, and Côte d’Ivoire. The reddish wood powder derived from the plant is traditionally known as “Osun” among the Yoruba people of Nigeria and has been extensively utilized in indigenous skin care formulations, herbal soaps, and therapeutic cosmetic preparations. Studies have demonstrated that camwood contains biologically active phytochemicals such as flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and glycosides which contribute to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, exfoliating, and skin-rejuvenating properties. This review evaluates the role of African camwood as an active ingredient in bar soap formulations and skin care products, with emphasis on its phytochemical composition, antimicrobial activities, antioxidant effects, dermatological benefits, and industrial applications in cosmetic formulations. The formulation methodology of camwood-containing African black soap was examined alongside physicochemical and stability evaluations including pH, total fatty matter, foam ability, texture, wet crack resistance, fragrance retention, and cleansing performance. Comparative analysis revealed that pilot camwood soap formulations demonstrated improved total fatty matter, enhanced foam volume, and superior skin feel when compared with selected commercial market samples. The incorporation of camwood powder into bar soaps and skin care products provides natural cleansing, anti-acne, anti-aging, and skin-toning effects while also supporting the development of herbal cosmetic products based on indigenous African medicinal resources. This work further highlights the growing relevance of natural plant-derived active ingredients in sustainable cosmetic science and industrial soap manufacturing.
Author: Chimezie-Azubuike, Goodluck
Language: English
Topic: Medicinal Plant Research
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7219417677