Summer Environmental StudyTitilope Olotu

Development of Medicinal Herbal Oil-infused Nanofibrous Scaffolds (banana Fibers) for Targeted Modulation of Bacterial Vaginosis Pathogenesis: a Non-invasive Approach for Antimicrobial Efficacy

To advance youth-led sustainability, I aim to cultivate banana and other cellulose-based plants in Itaogbolu, Nigeria, to optimize fiber production for PADÍ’s eco-friendly menstrual pads. This project examines how sustainable harvesting and cultivation methods impact fiber quality for medicinal upscaling. In collaboration with UCLA BioPACIFIC MIP, we aim to improve fiber sanitization and herbal oil integration while assessing how cultivation environments influence fiber properties for future manufacturing. Ultimately, this research will promote eco-friendly agriculture, encourage polyculture farming, and create a scalable model for banana fiber-based, non-toxic pads in the U.S. market.