Social Chemistry: Making Therapeutic Creams in La Vicentina.

This work presents an interdisciplinary university outreach experience focused on the development of therapeutic creams based on local essential oils, mainly eucalyptus, to support physiotherapy treatments for low-income older adults in the neighbourhood of La Vicentina (Quito, Ecuador). The project was part of PUCE Solidaria, with the participation of Chemistry and Physiotherapy students who prepared and applied the products in a socially vulnerable community context. The distillation method was used to obtain essential oils, and creams with a warming effect were subsequently formulated. More than fifty people benefited, reporting improvements in mobility as well as relief of muscular and joint pain. Furthermore, the experience enabled students to apply scientific knowledge in a socially relevant environment, strengthening their commitment to chemistry in the social sphere and to community hope. This study combines scientific rigor and social engagement, in line with the university’s mission to contribute to justice and collective well-being.