A science investigatory project involving the use of guava that often takes place in the class room is that of using guava leaf extract to treat acne. The project is very simple and could be completing by students in either middle school or high school. To carry out the experiment, 800 grams of guava leaves will be needed, as well as 150ml of sodium hydroxide solution. Access will also be needed to a commercial acne soap product and boiling water. Follow the steps below to carry out the guava leaf acne science investigatory project.
- Firstly, wash your guava leaves with cool water carefully. Add the leaves to a pot of boiling water (400 ml) and boil this mixture for around 15 minutes. This will create the guava leaf extract. Remove the leaves from the water using a filter mechanism, to ensure no small leaf fragments remain.
- Add this mixture to 150 ml of sodium hydroxide solution, and stir for two to three minutes until a foamy emulsion has been produced. This is the final product of your experiment, and will be used to test the effectiveness of guava in the treatment of acne. It should be noted that prior to the experiment (or at this stage) you should make a hypothesis. This is a scientific prediction, stating whether or not you believe the guava will be successful or not.
- Find two groups of volunteers - the more individuals in each group, the better. Have one group of volunteers apply the guava solution to their acne on a daily basis. The other group should use a regular acne soap product.
- After two weeks, gather your volunteers to find out the results of your experiment. You should note how much their acne has changed, for worse or for better. Compare the two groups of volunteers to find out if the guava solution has been effective.