THE EFFECTIVENESS OF CALAMANSI (CITROFORTUNELLA MICROCARPA)

EXTRACTS AS A NATURAL MAIN INGREDIENT FOR ELIMINATING DIRT STAIN

AND BAD ODOR ON WHITE FABRIC

A Science Investigatory Project presented to the faculty and staff

of the Senior High School Department of
Magsaysay National High School

In Partial Fulfillment of the Subject

Practical Research 2

Proponents

Roxxane Mae D. Tulio

Hanami S. Salud
Danilo M. Ong Jr.
Trixie Jane Sanchez
Krissel Joy M. Ramos
Tyrone Jay D. Sermenio
Jan Gabriel T. Dacayanan
Joshua Paul S. Flores
Dylan C. Mangaoang
Mark Eugene N. Mendejar
Sean Vincent E. Sendaydiego
Curt Markniel D. Mayuga

September 2022
 Abstract

Calamansi, also known as Citrofortunella Microcarpa, is a commercially important citrus hybrid

mostly produced in the Philippines. It is known for its antibacterial, antiseptic, and antimicrobial

properties, making it an effective natural cleaning agent. This study aims to determine the

effectiveness of Calamansi in removing stains on different types of fabric, specifically cotton and

silk, and examine the impact of different types of dirt on its effectiveness. Additionally, the study

will also explore the potential of Calamansi in eliminating bad odor. The findings of this research

have the potential to inform the development of affordable and effective cleaning products

utilizing Calamansi. Calamansi extract was prepared by extracting the juice from the fruit and

mixing it with water. The extract was then applied to white fabric samples that were stained with

dirt and exposed to bad odors. The results showed that the Calamansi extract was able to

effectively remove the dirt stains and eliminate the bad odors on the white fabric samples. The

study suggests that Calamansi extract can be used as a natural and effective alternative to

chemical-based laundry detergents for removing dirt stains and bad odors on white fabric.

Keywords: Calamansi,Stain,Odor,Cleaning agent

 Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Calamansi (Citrofortunella Microcarpa), a commercially important citrus hybrid, is

mostly produced in the Philippines. It is also known as calamondin Philippine lime or Philippine

lemon. Calamansi is known to also have antibacterial, antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that

can help in keeping the surfaces of your home clean and fresh.

Calamansi has emerged as a key stain remover commercial endeavor. It grants people and

provides them with extra money. Most importantly, it is affordable and does not contain high-

quality chemicals that might burn your skin when touched. This production/experiment is often

put on by students or ordinary children. Because unclean marks cannot be easily removed by just

cleaning with water, it is required to employ anything that can remove them. Calamansi is a

well-known as natural bleaching agent due to its acidity, and it may be used to help remove

stains.

The purpose of this research is to determine that calamansi is more successful in

removing stains in the shortest length of time. Us researchers will put the calamansi to the test to

determine if they can alter types of fabric (Cotton and Silk). This study also attempts to establish

whether using two different types of dirt affects the effectiveness of the stain remover.

Calamansi also can add fragrance to the cleaning agent because according to Cloud Benedict

Zamudio (2015) calamansi extract is a substitute for expensive perfumes. This is because

calamansi is abundant here in the Philippines.

Statement of the Problem

This study aims to identify how calamansi (citrofortunella microcarpa) extract works in

eliminating stain and bad odor.

Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions;

1. Is calamansi (citrofortunella microcarpa) extract could formulate dirt stain and bad odor

removal product?

2. Is it advisable to use the calamansi extract as stain and bad odor removal?

3. How long it takes for the product to take effect in terms of:

a. Stain

b. Bad odor

Formulation of the Hypothesis

a. If Calamansi (citrofortunella microcarpa) extract has citric acid, then the product could

remove dirt stains and bad odor on white clothing.

b. If Calamansi is a convenient material, then many people will use this as part of their

cleaning agent.

c. If Calamansi have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, then it would take effect in a

short length of time.

Significance of the study

The rationale of the study is to make convenient product and to save money. This study

aims to create an eco-friendly tough stain and bad odor removal on white clothing out of
calamansi extract that can help lower the risk of using chemical cleaning agent. Hence, this will

benefit the people at home who have difficulty in cleaning fabric stain and bad odor.

Scope and Delimitation of the Study/ Limitations

This study will be conducted to use calamansi extract as stain and bad odor removal. In

this experimental research, we will use T-Test as the statistical treatment to compare the means

of two samples: stain and bad odor. This study will be perceived by the participants/people at

home in San Benito, Dinalupihan, Bataan during the year of 2022.

Definition of Terms

Calamansi. A small evergreen citrus tree (Citrofortunella x mitis), widely cultivated as a

houseplant for its glossy foliage and ornamental fruits.

Citric Acid. Citric acid is found naturally in citrus fruits especially lemons and limes. A

manufactured form of citric acid is commonly used as a cleaning agents.

Extract. A preparation containing the active ingredient of a substance in concentrated form.

Stain. Is the colored patches or dirty marks of fabric that we aim to eliminate using calamansi

extract.
 Chapter 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

Related Literatures

Calamansi Extract

According to the study of Elidahanum Husni1, Fitri Yeni1,and Dachriyanus (2021) Citrus

is a plant with numerous health benefits that have been widely reported for their pharmacological

effects. Calamansi is a citrus that has been shown to have antibacterial properties (Citrus

microcarpa Bunge).

Reported by Suhaidi Ariffin , Wan Syazehan Ruznan, Muhammad Nurkhairunizam

Yazid, Suraya Ahmad Suhaimi , Mu’adz Ahmad Mazian , and Muhammad Mu’az Mustamam

(2021) Color extraction from plant sources is one of the green approaches to reducing

environmental pollution. Since the invention of synthetic dyes in 1856, the use of natural dyes in

the textile industry has decreased. This work focuses on the development of a new color palette

that is similar to PANTONE® colors, as well as the investigation of its wash fastness from

Rangoon creeper flower petals extracted using methanol and dyed using infrared dyeing

equipment properties. Silk cloth was used for the dyeing process, with calamansi and vinegar as

mordanting ingredients.

Uses of Calamansi

Calamansi is one of the smallest and least expensive fruits available in the market.

Despite the fact that it is a small fruit, it can provide your body with a variety of benefits. This
fruit promotes weight loss, immune system stimulation, and aesthetic enhancement Yayang

(2014).

Calamansi can also be used to promote hair growth. Before taking a bath, apply

calamansi to your scalp and rinse after 15 minutes. Do it on a daily basis to promote hair growth.

Calamansi can assist you in getting rid of dandruff. To relieve itching, simply apply it to your

scalp. It also works well as a deodorant. Allow the calamansi slice to dry in your armpit after

bathing. It will also aid in the lightening of your armpits, which can be darkened by deodorants.

It contributes to the whitening of your skin. If you are dizzy or nauseous, squeezing the

calamansi peel will allow you to smell it; however, do not swallow it Yayang (2014).

In comparison to lemon and calamansi as full denture cleaning agents, the performance of

commercially available denture cleansers was compared in the study. To assess each denture's

plaque index score before and after cleaning it with citrus cleansers and commercial denture

cleaners at various intervals. The researchers selected participants using the convenience sample

approach who have worn complete dentures for no longer than two years. For this investigation,

there were 30 pairs of complete dentures. There were 60 dentures in all; each included 28 sets of

teeth, except the third molar. Water, calamansi, lemon, Brand E, and Brand P were the five

solutions utilized in this investigation. The 30 dentures were distributed among the five solutions

Pohan, Wangania,, & Zarsaga (2018)

According to Santos (2018) calamansi is a fruit known for its usefulness, as well as its

amazing use in the field of medicine, however, it has proven to be more than just a food and

medicine. The Calamansi Plant is as common in the Philippines as it is elsewhere. The

Calamansi plant is frequently used to season dishes, preserve food, remove stains from clothing,

deodorize and whiten the skin, and, of course, to make juice. A common ingredient in many local
commercial products. The Calamansi Plant is unmistakable and preferred in daily cleansing

supplies Jego (2015).

The problem of body odor for people in Indonesia is becoming more and more troubling

day by day, so a new breakthrough in deodorant perfume spray was created by utilizing the

natural ingredients of fragrant lemongrass and calamansi orange as special Indonesian plants.

This deodorant perfume spray made from fragrant lemongrass and calamansi orange has the

advantage of being easy to use, easy to absorb, does not leave stains on clothes, and has a special

fragrance from the combination of fragrant lemongrass and calamansi orange that is refreshing

and loved by many people. This effort has an R/C of 1.13 and this effort deserves to be carried

out. The business that has been running for 3 months has provided a profit of 12% of the fixed

capital. (Sabrina, Nurazmi, Saputra, Nasrulloh, Mawarti, & Fitriani, (2022).

According to Lorenzo (2013) Calamansi has the power to assist in neutralizing any

unpleasant odor. Since the human nose is much more sensitive to and receptive to citrus

fragrance than other scent molecules in the air, it dispels unpleasant odors by overwhelming

them. Making a linen spray with calamansi essential oil will keep any room in your house feeling

pleasant and fresh. Similarly, calamansi is a substance that will assist in replacing antipersistants

and anti-odor products by reducing odor, especially in areas where it may be present or even on

our bodies Schwarcz (2021).

Related Studies

According to Souza (2012), citric acid is a weak organic acid that is found in citrus fruits

like lime and lemon. It can also be used as a natural bleaching agent and an antioxidant. As a

result, it is useful in our daily lives to remove stains or dirt from fabric and bleach the spot.
 Tough stains from chocolate, blood, rust, and other substances are some of the issues we

face during laundry. Typically, these stains tarnish our clothes. Depending on the severity of the

stains, it can also destroy the fabric's quality. Stain removers and detergents are available.

However, many stain removers can cause fabrics to deteriorate or affect dyes or finishes

Mendelson (2015).

According to Deziel (2017), muriatic Acid is one of the best cleaning products for hard

stains, as well as a well-known go-to product for cleaning efflorescence, scale, and stains off

concrete and brick. It is not something to be taken lightly by the powerful. Muriatic acid is

extremely corrosive Bricks (2019). It will burn the skin if it comes into accidental direct contact

with it. Calamansi fruits have many positive effects, including naturally removing stains from

clothes without the use of harsh chemicals. This may irritate our nodules or skin. Calamansi can

be beneficial to us in ways other than clothes. Calamansi can eliminate bad smell of fish, useful

for food recipes, skin lightening, and can be used as deodorant, helps with coughs, and is also a

good source of Vitamin C.

According to University Malaysia Pahang (2014), Citrus essential oil has numerous

applications in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, and fragrance industries. Calamansi extract

can be used to replace chemicals in commercially available perfumes. It encourages the use of

natural ingredients in the maintenance and improvement of a person's personal hygiene Zamudio

(2019). The presence of the main component limonene significantly improved the oil's fragrance,

antibacterial, antifungal, and insect repellent properties. As a result, the level of Citrus essential

oil's limonene content has a significant impact on its composition. As a result, the effect of the

hydro distillation extraction process on the yield and limonene composition of essential oil

extracted from the peels of calamansi lime (Citrus microcarpa), key lime (Citrus aurantifolia),
and kaffir lime (Citrus hystrix) was investigated. This study also looked into the potential use of

Citrus essential oil as a natural aromatic gel.

The scent produced by Calameric (Calamansi and Turmeric) extracts is efficient in

reducing the offensive odor of the comfort rooms. Additionally, the effectiveness of Calameric

(Calamansi and Turmeric) is comparable to that of commercial toilet deodorizers. It is well

known that Calamansi and Turmeric are both readily available in San Miguel, Surigao del Sur,

Philippines. Additionally, in distant locations where commercial products cannot be used, this

can compete with commercial toilet deodorizers Baylon (2019).

Cheap natural fruits from the Philippines include Citrofortunella microcarpa, often

known as calamansi, and Musa acuminata, also known as Saba bananas. Both peels are often

discarded after usage, however some research indicates that fruit peels may still be beneficial due

to their antibacterial qualities Duremdes, Revil, Iral, & Bingcang (2022).

Conceptual Framework

OUTPUT
INPUT PROCESS
Calamansi
Calamansi Prepare extract as an
Extract effective
Extracting
natural main
White fabric
Mixing ingredient
for
Soaking eliminating
dirt stain and
bad odor in
white fabric.
 Chapter 3

METHODOLOGY

The Subject of the Study

In this experimental research, calamansi extracts are tested to see if they can be used as a

cleaning material for removing dirt stains and bad odors from white clothing. This fruit have

been chosen to be the subject of this study because it is more convenient and non-harmful

ingredient that can be found at home. Also, this experimental study included two chemical

ingredients which are alcohol and vinegar. In addition, these are known to be used as cleaning

material which is an essential component in this experimental study.

The Procedure

1. Prepare the materials.

 3 tbsp. of vinegar

 8 pcs. of calamansi

 zest of calamansi

 1 drop of alcohol

2. Cut all the calamansi into two pieces;

3. To get the extracts, squeeze the sliced calamansi in a container;

4. Then, scrape the skin of calamansi to get the zest and put it in a separate container. Set

aside;
 5. After that, in a separate container combine the vinegar, calamansi extract and its zest;

6. Add a drop of alcohol; and

7. Lastly, mix it together for the finished product.

Research Design

This study aims to investigate the potential uses of calamansi as a fabric cleaning agent

on white cotton cloth. According to Zamudio (2019), calamansi extract can be used to replace

chemicals in commercially available perfumes. It can also be used as a natural bleaching agent

and an antioxidant Souza (2012).

This study uses experimental research design to test the effectiveness of eliminating dirt

stains and bad odors on white clothes by using calamansi extract. Additionally, the study aims to

find out if it is a good alternative to other fabric cleaning agents that contain chemicals.

However, it might lead to a product that reveals a safe cleaning agent on white fabric with dirt

stain and bad odor.

The Statistical Treatment

The statistical treatment of this study utilized a t-test to test the hypothesis. The

researchers identified the range, the mean, and the standard deviation, which are substantial

information in testing the hypothesis, by conducting five trials on calamansi being investigated in

this study. All the data gathered was listed and organized, ready for analysis and interpretation.

The aim of determining the range in this investigative study is to determine the

effectiveness level of calamansi extracts that are typically available at home.

 The mean of this study is also important to know the average level of effectiveness that

calamansi extracts can produce.

The purpose of the standard deviation in this study is to provide information about the

variability of the effectiveness level and the proximity of each individual's effectiveness level to

the mean.

The purpose of these trials is to discover the amount of calamansi extracts as the main

ingredient required to eliminate the dirt stain and bad odor on white cotton clothes. Also, to see

how effective calamansi is at removing dirt stains and bad odors. Calamansi and other

ingredients such as vinegar and alcohol will be used in this experimental study and will have five

trials. Trial 1 will begin with two common household materials, which are calamansi extracts

first, exactly 5 pieces of calamansi and baking soda. The next trial required adding a drop of

alcohol to test the odor and also to enhance the calamansi aroma. The third trial required adding

vinegar for stain testing. In the fourth trial, 3 pieces of calamansi were added to dominate the

smell of calamansi. In the last trial, the calamansi zest was added to minimize the alcohol smell.
 Chapter 4

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

Presentation of Data, Analysis and Interpretation of Data

In this chapter, data are shown in table form. These data show the effectivity of

formulated calamansi extract on two different white fabric (cotton and silk) in terms of odor and

stain. Two different dirt are specified below.

In terms of chocolate dirt:

STAIN

Trial #1 to trial # 4 shows no significant changes in the fabric because the testing is still

in its early stage. In each trial, we add ingredients to enhance the effectiveness of our product. In

our last trial, we began to see changes especially on cotton; however, it still needs improvements.

TRIAL # COTTON SILK

1 3 2

2 3 2

3 3 2

4 3 2

5 5 3
ODOR

In trial 1 to 4, it shows no significant changes in both cotton and silk in terms of odor, meaning

the testing fails to remove the odor of chocolate stain in both fabrics. For the last trial, it began to

show a slight effect but still need some improvement.

TRIAL # COTTON SILK

1 1 1

2 1 1

3 2 2

4 1 1

5 3 3

In terms of dog’s pee:

STAIN

For trial 1 to 3, it shows effectiveness in cotton and poor efficacy in silk, but the efficacy level is

still insufficient to show the product's target result. However, the fourth and final trial

demonstrates the product's target effectiveness in cotton but fails in silk, indicating that the trial

is more effective in cotton.

TRIAL # COTTON SILK

1 7 4

2 6 4

3 7 5
 4 9 5

5 9 5

ODOR

In the first trial, it failed to remove the odor of dog pee stains from cotton and silk. For trials 2

and 3, it demonstrates effectiveness in both fabrics but still not enough for the product's target

efficacy level. However, the fourth and last trial showed the product's target effectivity level in

both fabrics in terms of odor.

TRIAL # COTTON SILK

1 2 2

2 7 5

3 6 7

4 8.5 7

5 8 8
 Chapter 5

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Conclusion

The presence of acid in Calamansi attacks the staining material and softens it, making it

easy to wash away. Calamansi has developed as a prominent commercial stain removal

endeavor. It bestows upon people and provides them with additional income. Most importantly,

it is affordable and does not contain large chemicals that may cause skin irritation when touched.

The impact of the study on the utilization of Calamansi as an effective dirt stain could not be

understated and offered an avenue to provide a safe and eco-friendly stain remover. However,

the study finds out that Calamansi formulation is not effective in eliminating bad odor.

Recommendations

To further improve the study, the researchers recommend the following:

1. Identify the level of relevance of the applied treatments and variables by conducting

confirmatory, replicated studies, and statistical analysis.

2. Combining ingredients with the use of cutting-edge, effective technology

3. Conduct more trials and testing to further improve the results

4. Conduct exploratory studies on other ingredients apart from Calamansi

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