TITLE:
Documentation and Phytochemical Screening of Traditional Beauty Products Used in Missenyi District of Tanzania
AUTHORS:
Sheila M. Maregesi, Godeliver A. Kagashe, Fatuma Felix
KEYWORDS:
Tanzania, Traditional Beauty Products, Phytochemicals
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications,
Vol.4 No.5,
December
11,
2014
ABSTRACT: Background Information: The concept of
beauty and cosmetics is as old as mankind and civilization. Raw materials for
beauty products are dominated by petroleum and synthetic products. In recent
years, there has been an increase of natural product-based cosmetics along with
creating beauty from the inside by consumption of nutraceuticals. Tanzania
traditional beauty products are still in use especially rural areas, but the
documentation is lacking. Objectives: This work aimed at documenting
traditional beauty products in Kagera region as an effort to avoid loss of
useful information and available useful traditional findings for safe
utilization in beauty products. Meth-odology: Information was obtained from
knowledgeable people in Missenyi district by focus group discussion. Collected
materials were identified in Botany and Zoology Departments at the University
of Dar es Salaam followed by literature search and phytochemical screening.
Results: This study afforded to record 13 plants, 4 animal products, mineral
and other organic products. Most products are used for skin care (57%) followed
by hair care (22%). Literature search supported the use of some of the products
and plants subjected to qualitative analysis showed presence of phytochemicals
relevant to beautification. Discussion: Some of the recorded plant and animal
products are incorporated in natural based cosmetic products. Hazardous
practice of using skin lightening plant products and dry cell powders was
noted. Conclusion: The use of products which are already incorporated in the
cosmetic products especially in countries where these products are well
regulated should be promoted. Products reported for the first time require
scientific studies to establish their effectiveness and safety. Since this study
recorded the use of some dangerous materials, people need to be educated
through media.