Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Filipinos are one of the most diligent people around the world. They dedicate a big part of their lives working. They are passionate of their work for their families. Due to long hours of wearing footwear in performing daily activities and routine, many of them tend to acquire fungal foot diseases. These fungal diseases are caused by different types of fungi, including dermatophytes and yeasts which are common in the environment. Most fungi are not dangerous, but some types can be harmful to health. In effect, the person who is affected of it might acquire smelly stinky feet which prompt them to find for some herbal and over-the-counter medicines (www.cdc.gov.com, August 17, 2015).
Herbal medicines have been widely used within rural areas as a medicinal alternative to cure fungal infections and skin-causing diseases such as ringworm and athlete’s foot in the past. Nowadays, as technology innovates, new products have been released in the market as an alternative to herbal medicines for fungal infections such as foot powder.
Foot powder is a solid substance in the form of fine tiny loose particles containing active agents for topical application in the treatment of fungal infections. This helps regulate the odor of the foot and aids in the healing process of the skin diseases such as athlete’s foot.
In order to make the foot powder more effective, it must be made out of eight plants that the Department of Health affirms as scientifically proven to provide health benefits especially in the fungal disease curing process. One of these is the Akapulko.
Akapulko or Akapulco is a shrub found throughout the Philippines. A medicinal herb that contains chrysophanic acid, a fungicide used to treat fungal infections, like ringworms, scabies and eczema (www.herbalmedicinewahid.blogspot.com, August 17, 2015).
The researchers arrived at producing Akapulko Foot Powder, a product that will provide consumers the satisfaction in eliminating the odor of the foot and at the same time will treat skin infection. The feasibility study aims to prove this product with athletes, workers students, and other people who spent most of their time wearing footwear.
Statement of the Problem
The focus of this study is to determine the feasibility of producing and distributing akapulko foot powder.
This study aimed to answer the following questions: 1. Who are the target markets of the akapulko foot powder? 2. What is the market demand of the akapulko foot powder? 3. How the proposed product be distributed? 4. What will be the price of the akapulko foot powder? 5. What is the suitable description of the product? 6. Are there any emerging competitors who also produce foot powder in the area? 7. Where will be the source of raw materials? 8. What are the processes of production? 9. Where is the location of the business? 10. What is the form of organization? 11. How many workers are needed in the production and what are their responsibilities? 12. What would be the training and recruitment program to be used? 13. What is the source of investment? 14. How much is the cost of investment? 15. What are the benefits that the society acquire? 16. What are the equipments needed in production? 17. Is the proposed project harmful to the environment as well as with the consumer?
Significance of the Study
The study will be conducted with the hope that it could benefit the researchers and others as well. The following would be the beneficiaries of this study:
Researchers
This study will help and provide the researchers information that is necessary to their research. It will enhance their critical and analytical thinking in establishing certain businesses in the near future. The researchers can apply their acquired knowledge in the field of marketing, financial and management aspects and other related subjects in studying the feasibility of the proposed business.
Students
This study will serve as a reference on how to conduct a feasibility study for a similar or related product. This study will also widen their knowledge especially in setting up a similar business.
Future Entrepreneurs
The future entrepreneurs, who would like to produce akapulko foot powder can use this proposed study to get necessary ideas or details about the product.
Industry
Introducing the new product to the market may contribute in the competition of companies selling similar product. It may bring pressure to each competitor hence, improving its product quality.
Library Holdings
This study will become part of library’s reading materials section as reference for the students in obtaining ideas and information related to their studies.
Consumers
It will be an alternative product that could meet their expectations with attributes that address the needs of the market. It will also satisfy the customers by giving them a good quality product.
Objective of the Study 1. To know the target market of the akapulko foot powder 2. To determine the market demands of the akapulko foot powder 3. To distribute the proposed product 4. To estimate the price of akapulko foot powder 5. To know the description of the foot powder 6. To determine any emerging competitors who also produce the foot powder in the area 7. To determine the source of raw materials 8. To know the process of production 9. To determine the source of raw materials 10. To determine the form of organization 11. To determine the needed number of workers and their responsibilities 12. To determine the training and recruitment program use 13. To know the source of investment 14. To calculate the cost of investment 15. To know the benefits of the society 16. To determine the needed equipments in production 17. To determine if the proposed product will harm the environment and consumers
Scope and Limitations
The study will be focused on the production, marketing and distribution of a new alternative foot powder in retailers in Calamba City. The proposed product includes the discovery of the healing property of akapulko for fungal diseases. The study will be conducted from August 2015 to March 2016.
Research Methodology
Research Design
The proponent will use both descriptive and analytical approaches in conducting the study. Descriptive research method will be used to gather information with regard to the condition of the distribution area. It mainly describes the nature of the conditions of the situation in order to obtain an accurate need of the customer.
These methods will be conducted with survey questionnaires and interviews.
Another method to be used is the analytical approach. This method will help to evaluate the probable results to support the conclusions of the study.
Research Locale
The study will be conducted in Poblacion, Calamba City. It consists of seven barangays.
Population and Sampling
The research will apply Slovin’s Formula to determine the number of population to be surveyed.

Slovin’s formula is written as: n= | N | | 1+Ne2 |

Where: n= Number of samples N= Population e= Margin of error
The margin of error will use is .10 n= | 19210 | | 1+19210(.07)2 |

n= | 19210 | | 95.13 |

n= 201.94 or 202
Sources of Data
Written and documented information will be useful for the study. Primary data will be gathered from personal interviews, and surveys. Books, encyclopedia, dictionary, internet, published feasibility studies and other related papers will provide the secondary data.
Data Gathering Procedures
The data gathering procedures started when the proponents looked for published feasibility studies at the school library of the City College of Calamba to serve as guide in identifying which are significant and not to the study. After determining which data to be gathered, the proponents requested for the data in the Calamba City Hall. The collected data will be useful by transforming it into meaningful information. A questionnaire will be utilized as the main data gathering instrument. It will serve as evidence in performing some explications regarding the perception of every respondent about the available foot powder in the market and their willingness to buy the proposed product. In order to gather information from the population, the researchers will use the random sampling technique since it is more practical and economical to perform a survey in a part rather than the whole population. The simple random sampling technique will signify that every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected. Payback Period = | Cost of the Investment | | Annual Cash Flow |
Analytical Tools

It measures the length of time required to cover an initial investment through cash flows generated by the investment. It also gives information about the project’s liquidity. Net Present Value (NPV) = Present Value of Cash Inflows – Cost of Investment Return on Investment = | Net Income | | Investment | It determines whether the investment will meet the predetermined objectives. It emphasizes cash flows and recognizes the time value of money.

It is a performance measure used to evaluate the efficiency of an investment. Profitability Index (PI) = | PV of Future Cash Flows | | Initial Investment |

It is known as the benefit-cost ratio which considers the time value of money based on the present value of future after-tax net cash inflows that have been discounted at the company‘s desired discount rate and the initials cash out lay for the investment. Internal Rate of Return= | Net Cost of Investment | | Net Cash Inflows |

It equates the present value of cash inflows to the present value of cash outflows (or the cost of investment). It is compared with the cost of capital or the desired rate of return (DRR) to determine whether the project is acceptable or not. Accounting Rate of Return (ARR) = | Average Net Income | | Initial Investment |

It closely parallels accounting concepts of measuring entity’s income and project’s Investment return which indicates its profitability.
Review of Related Literature
Cassia
Cassia,the scientific name of akapulko, also called senna, is an annual or herbaceous perennial plant, shrub or tree, of the genus cassia of the about 400 species. Most are tropical, but a few are found in temperate regions. Many are popular ornamentals because of their rapid growth, pinnate leaves, and yellow or rose flowers which often grow in large clusters. The fruit is a pod, the showy cassia. Cassia corymbosa, is a 10-foot(3 meter) shrub with yellow flowers. The pink cassia or pink shower, C. grandis is a 50-foot(15 meter) the with rose flowers.
Senna, the dried leaves of many species, provides an extract used as a cathantic. Cassia is classified in the family leguminosae (pea) (Collier’s, 1997)
Chrysophanic Acid
Chrysophanic acid, also known as chrysophanol, is a fungal isolate and a natural anthraquinone with anti-cancer activity. Chrysophanol induces the necrosis of cancer cells via a reduction in ATP levels. Chrysophanol attentuates the effects of lead exposure in mice by reducing hippocampal neuronal cytoplasmic edema, enhancing mitochondrial crista fusion, significantly increasing memory and learning abilities, reducing lead content in blood, heart, brain, spleen, kidney and liver, promoting superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities and reducing malondialdehyde level in the brain, kidney and liver (www.en.wikipedia.org, August 20, 2015).
Fungus
A fungus is a primitive organism. Mushrooms, mold and mildew are examples. Fungi live in air, in soil, on plants and in water. Some live in the human body. Only about half of all types of fungi are harmful.
Some fungi reproduce through tiny spores in the air. One can inhale the spores or they can land on an individual. As a result, fungal infections often start in the lungs or on the skin. People are more likely to get a fungal infection if they have a weakened immune system or take antibiotics.
Fungi can be difficult to kill. For skin and nail infections, one can apply medicine directly to the infected area. Oral antifungal medicines are also available for serious infections (www.nlm.nih.gov, August 20, 2015) Ringworm
Ringworm, also known as tinea, a dermatomycosis, or a fungus infection of the skin, hair, or nails, in which the lesions spread in a circle around a haled, scaly central blister. The term “ringworm” came into use because of the misconception that minute worms produced the circular lesions.
Body. Ringworm of the body, or tinea corporis, is caused by fungi in the genera Trichophyton and Microsporum. These fungi infect smooth skin anywhere on the body and produce reddish, scaling, circular lesions that burn and itch.
Scalp. Ringworm of the scalp, or tinea capitis, is usually caused by the fungus Microsporum audouini, which only infects humans, and occasionally by species of Trichophyton and fungi of animals. This form of ringworm infects children and is highly contagious, often becoming epidemic. When the child reaches puberty, the lesions heal spontaneously; apparently the fungus is killed by the changes that take place in the acidity of the sweat and in the oils secreted by the sebaceous glands.
Beard. Ringworm of the beard, or tinea barbae, also known as barber’s itch, is a fungus infection confined to the beard area of adult males. It is caused by by Microsporum lanosum and several species of Trichophyton. The infection is contracted from animals or by exposure to infected materials, particularly barbershop equipment. The primary lesions are small, slightly scaly, redish patches, which heal in the center but continue to spread from the boarders.
Groin. Ringworm of the groin, or tinea cruris, also known as Eczema marginatum or jock itch, is often caused by fungus Epidermophyton floccusum but sometimes by various species of Trichophyton. The infection occurs on the legs, thighs, and buttocks. In an acute infection, the lesions are rounded and elevated, and there is oozing and crusting over of the area, which is a deep red and may ithch and burn. In a chronic infection, the lesionsare dry and scaling, and the skin reddens.
Nail. Ringworm of the nail, or tinea unguium, is caused by species of Epidermophyton and Trichophyton. The infection usually begins at the edge of the nail and is characterized by the loss of luster at the free edge. The nail becomes thickened with crumbling and separates from the nail bed. The entire nail usually becomes infected. The toenails are infected more often than the fingernails. (Collier, 1997).
Athlete’s Foot Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) is a fungal infection that usually begins between the toes. It occurs most commonly in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight-fitting shoes.
Signs and symptoms of athlete's foot include a scaly rash that usually causes itching, stinging and burning. Athlete's foot is contagious and can be spread via contaminated floors, towels or clothing.
Athlete's foot is closely related to other fungal infections such as ringworm and jock itch. It can be treated with over-the-counter antifungal medications, but the infection often recurs. Prescription medications also are available (www.mayoclinic.org, August 17, 2015).
Types of Athlete's Foot
Interdigital
Interdigital type is also called toe web infection. This is the most common kind of athlete's foot. It usually occurs between the two smallest toes. This form of athlete's foot can cause itching, burning, and scaling and the infection can spread to the sole of the foot.
Moccasin
A moccasin-type infection of athlete's foot can begin with a minor irritation, dryness, itching, or scaly skin. As it develops, the skin may thicken and crack. This infection can involve the entire sole of the foot and extend onto the sides of the foot.

Vesicular This is the least common kind of athlete's foot. The condition usually begins with a sudden outbreak of fluid-filled blisters under the skin. Most often, the blisters develop on the underside of the foot. However, they also can appear between the toes, on the heel, or on the top of the foot.
Herbal Medicine
An herb is a plant or plant part used for its scent, flavor, or therapeutic properties. Herbal medicines are a type of dietary supplement. These are sold as tablets, capsules, powders, teas, extracts, and fresh or dried plants. People use herbal medicines to try to maintain or improve their health.
Many people believe that products labeled "natural" are always safe and good for them. This is not necessarily true. Herbal medicines do not have to go through the testing that drugs do. Some herbs, such as comfrey and ephedra, can cause serious harm. Some herbs can interact with prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
If a person thinks of using a herbal medicine, he/she should first get an information about it from reliable sources. They must inform their health care provider about any herbal medicines you are taking (www.nlm.nih.gov, August 17, 2015). Corn Starch
Corn starch, sometimes referred to as corn flour, is a carbohydrate extracted from the endosperm of corn. This white powdery substance is used for many culinary, household, and industrial purposes. In the kitchen, corn starch is often used as a thickening agent for sauces, gravies, glazes, soups, casseroles, pies, and other desserts and corn starch is made from corn and only contains carbohydrates (no protein). It is a gluten free product.
For this reason, corn starch is an excellent gluten free alternative to flour thickeners in recipes. One must check the packaging to make sure that the corn starch has not been produced in a facility that also processes wheat products to prevent the possibility of cross contamination (www.foodreference.about.com, August 20, 2015).
Sodium Bicarbontae
Sodium bicarbonate. (IUPAC name: sodium hydrogen carbonate) is a chemical compound with the formula NaHCO3. Sodium bicarbonate is a white solid that is crystalline but often appears as a fine powder. It has a slightly salty, alkaline taste resembling that of washing soda (sodium carbonate). The natural mineral form is nahcolite. It is a component of the mineral natron and is found dissolved in many mineral springs. It is among the food additives encoded by European Union, identified by the initials E 500. Since it has long been known and is widely used, the salt has many related names such as baking soda, bread soda, cooking soda, and bicarbonate of soda. The word saleratus, from Latin sal æratus meaning aerated salt, was widely used in the 19th century for both sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate (www.en.wikipedia.org, August 20, 2015).
Definition of terms
Akapulko – It is an herbal shrub which serves as the anti-fungal agent of the product.
Athlete’s foot – It is a fungal infection of the feet. Business- It pertains broadly to commercial, financial, and industrial activity that has the objective of supplying commodities.
Chrysophanic Acid - The substance of akapulko that treat fungal infections.
Cornstarch – One of the main ingredients of the foot powder which prevents foot sweating.
Dermatophytes – It is a fungus parasite on the skin.
Fungi – It is an organism that causes Athlete’s foot and other fungal diseases.
Production- It is the process of manufacturing or making a good or product.
Respondents – These are the people who will answer the questionnaires and take response to the researchers.
Sodium bicarbonate - One of the main ingredients of the foot powder which serves as deodorizer.
Yeasts – It is a unicellular fungus that is functionally active, usually has little or mycelium.