Meyra Marianti – Moringa oleifera, known locally as kelor, has a rich tapestry of stories in Java, particularly in Yogyakarta. For the local community, kelor is a sacred tree with a long-standing reputation. Its small, oval-shaped leaves have a myriad of benefits in daily life, from aiding nursing mothers to being potent in removing magical implants. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the consumption of moringa leaves for infants and toddlers during their growth. Beyond promoting health, moringa has been employed to treat over 300 diseases, substantiating its immense significance in the community.
In Yogyakarta, especially in Kulon Progo, moringa plants are not only utilized for medicinal and culinary purposes but are also now being employed in eco spa products. What are eco spa products? These are healthcare and skincare products made from eco-friendly materials. The development of eco spa products has gained popularity, driven by the increasing public awareness of the importance of health and wellness.
Among the eco spa products developed in Kulon Progo, some are based on moringa. This innovation not only introduces moringa by incorporating it into a variety of derivative products but also promotes the involvement of all members of society, particularly vulnerable groups like women and people with disabilities. The production conducted in the Kulon Progo region is inclusive, with a significant number of eco spa producers being individuals with various disabilities who collaborate with women farmers in the local tourist village. Some of the products produced include soap, hand sanitizer, and body scrub.
“This is the first time I’ve held a hand mixer, and learning to make my own soap has been an incredible experience. In addition to protecting the environment, as the soap I make comes from eco-friendly natural ingredients, my soap is also rich in benefits for my skin,” said Arief, a visually impaired individual who has started learning to make soap from moringa.