UNDIP Researchers Develop Essential Oils: New Innovation to Boost Local Community Economy

UNDIP, Semarang (September 27, 2025) – Universitas Diponegoro (UNDIP) continues to deliver innovations that bring direct benefits to society. One such initiative is the development of essential oil products in the Special Purpose Forest Area (Kawasan Hutan Dengan Tujuan Khusus / KHDTK) in Penggaron, Semarang Regency. The program not only strengthens local potential but also opens new economic opportunities for surrounding communities.

Prof. Dr. Hermin Pancasakti Kusumaningrum, S.Si., M.Si., an expert in genetics, molecular biology, and biotechnology from the Faculty of Science and Mathematics at UNDIP led the program. Together with a team of lecturers and students, Prof. Hermin explored Penggaron’s abundant natural wealth of essential oil plants, which were then processed into high-value products, including perfumes, aromatherapy oils, herbal soaps, and personal care products for health and the body.

According to Prof. Hermin, the program’s goal is not only to create fragrant products but also to deliver tangible health benefits while generating additional family income. “This innovation harnesses local resources sustainably, enabling residents to earn extra income through product diversification,” she said.

The initiative is carried out through UNDIP’s Village Science and Technology Program (Iptek Desa Binaan UNDIP / IDBU), involving cross-faculty students through Thematic Community Service Programs (KKN-T). The collaboration fosters a learning environment where students apply their knowledge, while communities gain new skills that directly improve their daily lives.

Residents, particularly farmer groups and women farmer groups (KWT), are trained to process essential oils and turn them into high-value household products. From seed cultivation and distillation techniques to product packaging, all processes are supported with intensive mentoring from UNDIP’s team.

Beyond production skills, communities also receive training in entrepreneurship. Financial literacy, basic bookkeeping, and digital marketing through social media are introduced to help Penggaron’s essential oil products reach broader markets. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools are also presented to support more effective sales strategies.

The program also extends its impact to health and environmental aspects. Residents receive education on family nutrition, maternal health, and training on converting essential oil distillation waste into eco-friendly, organic fertilizer, ensuring a more sustainable production cycle.

The cross-disciplinary collaboration further strengthens outcomes. Alongside Prof. Hermin, the program also involves Prof. Dr. Ir. Muhammad Zainuri, DEA, from the Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, and Dr. Dwi Ngestiningsih, M.Kes., Sp.PD.K-Ger., FINASIM, from the Faculty of Medicine. Their combined expertise ensures comprehensive guidance spanning environmental, health, and social empowerment dimensions.

The essential oil development program in Penggaron reflects UNDIP’s values of “Noble and Valuable UNDIP,” where the university stands beside communities and transforms knowledge into real solutions. In line with the “Diktisaintek Berdampak” initiative, UNDIP ensures its research and innovations contribute directly to societal well-being.

Looking ahead, UNDIP is committed to expanding the program’s impact so that Penggaron’s essential oil products gain recognition not only locally but also nationally and internationally. Through collaboration, UNDIP continues to demonstrate that science can drive economic independence and enhance the quality of life, transforming knowledge into tangible change —from villages to the nation. (Public Communication/ UNDIP/ DHW)

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