Optimizing the Use of Fennel Fruit in Aromatherapy with Karang Taruna Ngadisari Village, Probolinggo
On 22 September 2024, the Faculty of Pharmacy, Airlangga University (FF UNAIR) held a community service activity with the theme "Development of Tourism Villages through Optimizing Innovation Products from Fennel Fruit for the Tengger Tribe Community". This activity is a form of commitment to empowering the community through utilizing local potential, especially the abundant sweet anise plants in Ngadisari Village. This activity has actually been carried out routinely every year since 2021. However, there is something different about the implementation of this year's activity. If in previous activities the Community Service Team came to Ngadisari Village, today the people of Ngadisari Village, especially members of the youth organization, were invited to come to FF UNAIR.
The event was opened warmly by the head of the activity, namely Prof. apt. Rr. Retno Widyowati, S.Si, M.Pharm., Ph.D, who emphasized the importance of this training in improving community welfare. In his speech, he hoped that this activity could become a bridge for the community to utilize existing natural resources and implement them in daily life for health and the economy. This training is clear evidence of FF UNAIR's contribution in realizing SDGs 4 "Quality Education" for society.
Innovative Products from Fennel Fruit that are Successfully Made by the Community
During the training sessions, people were introduced to the various benefits of anise, which is not only known as a wild plant but also has extraordinary properties. Prof. Retno explained the potential of essential oil from sweet anise which can be used in various innovative products such as aromatherapy candles, inhalers, mouth wash and aromatherapy soap. With simple tools, participants are invited to be directly involved in making the product, creating an atmosphere full of enthusiasm and interaction.
Community Enthusiasm in Participating in Activities
The public's enthusiasm is palpable, as can be seen from their desire to ask questions and discuss things and when making products from anise. This moment not only provides new knowledge, but also fosters self-confidence to explore one's potential and the surrounding environment.
Not only that, this activity was also equipped with a training session regarding creating an e-commerce account delivered by Mr. Ahmad Fadlur Rahman Bayu SEI, M.Sc.IBF. With knowledge about online marketing, people are equipped to market their products more widely, opening up new opportunities for the local economy. This activity ran successfully and smoothly, leaving a deep impression on the participants. One of the community representatives expressed his sincere gratitude for the valuable knowledge and experience gained. They hope that FF UNAIR can continue to be present and contribute to the development of their village in the future.
With the spirit of collaboration and empowerment, this activity is not only a training, but also the first step towards transforming Ngadisari Village into a sustainable tourist destination, utilizing the natural beauty and local riches that exist.
