Creativity knows no boundaries, even in the hands of high school students. It is proven by five female students from Thursina International Islamic Boarding School (IIBS), Malang, who successfully created an innovative aromatherapy candle called "Lumiscent."
For the idea, they secured a silver medal in the National Invention Competition for Young Moslem Scientists (NICYMS) 2025.
Those outstanding students are Hauna Aisya Nur Abdiza, Aluiya Salsabila Angelina Corio, Aqilah Raihana Putri Adriansyah, Shakaila Zallica Putri, and Zara Farhana Lisma. They are part of a research team focused on finding simple solutions to common problems faced by teenagers: boredom, anxiety, and learning demotivation.
It is where the idea arose to create aromatherapy candles which are environmentally friendly and have positive psychological effects.
"Lumiscent" utilizes waste from the peel of the Siamese orange (Citrus nobilis) from Tegalweru Village, Malang, which is then processed as the main ingredient for candle fragrances. The choice was selected for a reason surely. Citrus aromas are known to increase energy and focus, while the combination of other essences, such as rose, berry, and bergamot, promotes relaxation and calm.
By utilizing local waste, this work emphasizes the spirit of sustainability and environmental awareness.
The research by the Thursina student team yielded striking results. The trial proved that the use of "Lumiscent" aromatherapy candles increased positive mood by up to 40.6 percent and boosted learning motivation.
It means that the basic product has great potential to help students cope with academic pressure while maintaining their mental health.
Furthermore, the work reflects the zest of integration between science, psychology, and Islamic values, upholding at Thursina IIBS. The innovation is not just about creating a product, but also providing real solutions based on the daily needs of students.
"Learning is more than academics; it is about maintaining personal balance as well," said Hauna Aisya, one of the team members.
"With these aromatherapy candles, we want to create a more enjoyable and calming learning environment," she added.
Certainly, the accomplishment did not come effortlessly. The team had to go through some stages of research; gathering materials, conducting experiments, and analyzing the psychological impact of using candles.
The perseverance paid off when the NICYMS 2025 juries deemed their work, "Lumiscent," as a creative innovation applicable to everyday life.
This national-level achievement is a pride for Thursina IIBS. For the school, the victory in the prestigious event is proof that modern Islamic boarding schools are capable of educating an excellent generation with morals and a global perspective.
Meanwhile, for the young research team, "Lumiscent" is the starting point for their long journey as aspiring Muslim scientists who will, one day, be able to contribute tangibly to society. (iz/lil)
