STEM: HERBAL BALM FORMULATION
On March 26, 2026, at The Center for Research and Education of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CED), students participated in an engaging STEM session themed “Herbal Balm Formulation.”
During the session, students gained hands-on experience with all four core elements of STEM:
S (Science): Exploring the properties of wax, carrier oils, and essential oils – understanding why these specific ingredients are chosen for making balm.
T (Technology): Learning how to use laboratory equipment (glass beakers, tripods, test tubes, alcohol lamps, etc.) and identifying the optimal time to add essential oils to prevent evaporation. Notably, they were also instructed on how to use alternative household items what they wish to make balm at home.
E (Engineering): Selecting their own formulas and tools, carrying out the process, and making adjustments when errors were detected (e.g., adding more carrier oil if the mixture became too hard).
M (Mathematics): Calculating ratios and measuring ingredients accurately.
The classroom atmosphere became lively as the groups began their hands-on practice. Every stage - from melting the wax and mixing ingredients to adding essential oils and pouring the mixture into molds - was carried out with care and meticulousness. One by one, the charming small jars of herbal balm were completed.
Beyond fostering meticulousness, concentration, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, the “Herbal Balm Formulation” STEM session also ensures educational equity for children who are deaf or hard of hearing.
