Enhancing the Skills of Family Empowerment and Welfare (PKK) Members Through the Utilization of Used Cooking Oil to Produce Aromatherapy Candles in Mekar Jaya Village

Peningkatan Keterampilan Anggota Pemberdayaan dan Kesejahteraan Keluarga Melalui Pemanfaatan Minyak Jelantah Menjadi Lilin Aromaterapi di Desa Mekar Jaya

Abstract

Used cooking oil is a type of household waste that has not been optimally utilized and has the potential to pollute the environment if disposed of improperly. In Mekar Jaya Village, the presence of flies that disrupt community activities is also an environmental issue that needs attention. This activity aims to improve the knowledge and skills of members of the Family Empowerment and Welfare program in utilizing used cooking oil to make aromatherapy candles as an alternative method for managing household waste and controlling flies. The activity was held at the Mardi Waluyo Posyandu in Mekar Jaya Village, Sebulu Subdistrict, Kutai Kartanegara Regency, with 16 participants. The activity methods included planning, preparation, educational sessions, demonstrations, hands-on practice in making aromatherapy candles, and evaluation through observation of participant engagement and understanding. The results showed that participants were enthusiastic and actively engaged throughout the training process. Participants gained knowledge on the utilization of used cooking oil as well as skills in filtering and purifying the oil, mixing ingredients, adding dyes and essential oils, molding, and the candle cooling process. The resulting aromatherapy candles have a solid texture, a stable flame, and a relaxing scent. The addition of lemongrass essential oil provides an additional function as a natural fly repellent. This activity demonstrates that the use of used cooking oil to make aromatherapy candles can serve as an alternative method for managing household waste while also producing a valuable product with the potential to be developed as a creative economic product for the community.