"Serum from Red Lotus Extract": From Research to Commercial Production

     The "red lotus" is an aquatic plant species that has stems and bulbs underground. Its growth causes the stems and flowers to emerge on the water's surface, and it may also be known by other names such as Sattabun and Rattan Ubon. This plant possesses health benefits such as rejuvenating the body, maintaining heart health, refreshing the body, strengthening bones and teeth, reducing fever, alleviating symptoms of internal heat. Its stems are rich in beta-carotene which helps to prevent and counteract colon cancer, and its pollen aids in skin health.

     The Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research, in collaboration with Udon Thani Rajabhat University, have partnered to innovate cosmetic products. The collaborative research has divided tasks based on the potential and expertise of the research teams of both institutions. They use red lotus from the Chae Lae community enterprise group, a community of red lotus cultivators in the Kumphawapi district of Udon Thani province. The area has over 22,500 Rai of red lotus cultivation. They have successfully extracted and analyzed important compounds and developed them into cosmetic innovations using the red lotus.

     They found that the red lotus extract contains crucial substances such as flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, and tannins. These bioactive compounds have multiple effects, including antioxidant properties, inhibition of melanin production in human skin cells, anti-inflammatory properties, and antibacterial activity against acne-causing bacteria. The extract was tested for toxicity and bioactivity to study the efficacy and safety before developing it into a prototype product, "Serum from Red Lotus Extract". This product is highly effective in nourishing the skin, inhibiting melanin production, reducing inflammation, and preventing acne.

     This product has passed consumer satisfaction tests and is ready to transfer the production technology to interested entrepreneurs for commercial production. This use of local signature plants to add value through science, technology, and innovation is seen as a natural progression from research. Commercial products create stable jobs, sustainable livelihoods, and contribute to a sustainable economy.

Source: Innovative Cosmetic Services Center, Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research

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