We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Aromatherapy in Textiles: A Systematic Review of Studies Examining Textiles as a Potential Carrier for the Therapeutic Effects of Essential Oils
Summary
This systematic review of studies on aromatherapy textiles found that microencapsulation is the most effective method for incorporating essential oils into fabrics for sustained therapeutic release. The research explores how textile fibers can serve as carriers for bioactive compounds delivered through skin contact. The study is relevant to microplastic concerns because synthetic textile fibers used as aromatherapy carriers are the same fibers that shed microplastics during washing and wear.
Integrative medicine is a rapidly growing specialty field of medical care that emphasizes the amalgamation of complementary therapies and conventional medicine. Aromatherapy, one of the complementary therapies, is a centuries-old tradition, used in many cultures and societies as an alternative to, or in conjunction with, conventional medicine. However, there is very little understanding of its therapeutic benefits in the scientific realm related to the correct dosage of essential oils, their delivery mechanism and their efficacy on human physiology in general. We reviewed studies published between 2011–2021 focused on aromatherapy and textiles, and explore “textile” materials as a possible carrier for essential oils in this paper. Due to their proximity to the biggest organ of the human body, textiles can potentially serve as a good delivery system for the therapeutic benefit of essential oils. After this rigorous review, we found gaps in the field. Therefore, we propose cross-disciplinary synergies for future research to fully understand the therapeutic efficacy of essential oils.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microencapsulation for Functional Textile Coatings with Emphasis on Biodegradability—A Systematic Review
This systematic review found that microencapsulation techniques for functional textile coatings are well-established for conventional shell materials, but biodegradable alternatives remain limited and often sacrifice durability. The review identified that most microcapsule shell materials are synthetic polymers that can contribute to microplastic pollution when they degrade from textile surfaces during washing. Developing truly biodegradable microcapsule formulations is essential for reducing the microplastic fiber shedding that makes textiles one of the largest sources of microplastic pollution.
Encapsulation of volatile compounds in liquid media: Fragrances, flavors, and essential oils in commercial formulations
Researchers reviewed microencapsulation techniques for fragrances, flavors, and essential oils and found that widely used rigid polymer microcapsules in consumer products release microplastics into wastewater, accounting for roughly 4% of total environmental microplastic load, underscoring demand for biodegradable encapsulation alternatives.
Polymer Nanoparticles for the Release of Fragrances: How the Physicochemical Properties Influence the Adsorption on Textile and the Delivery of Limonene
Researchers studied how the physical and chemical properties of polymer nanoparticles affect their ability to adsorb onto textiles and release fragrances over time. While focused on fragrance delivery, the research is relevant to understanding how polymer nanoparticles — a form of nanoplastic — interact with clothing and are potentially released during washing.
Rational Design of Sustainable Liquid Microcapsules for Spontaneous Fragrance Encapsulation
Researchers designed sustainable liquid microcapsules for fragrance encapsulation using bio-based rather than petroleum-derived materials, reducing environmental impact. This approach could replace conventional capsules that shed microplastic particles into wastewater when rinsed off personal care products.
Investigación en nuevas técnicas de microencapsulación biodegradables de fragancias para el sector de detergencia que eviten la liberación de microplásticos al medio ambiente
This study investigates biodegradable microencapsulation techniques for fragrances used in laundry and personal care products, aiming to replace conventional plastic microcapsules that release microplastics into the environment during washing. The research develops new polymer matrices that deliver fragrance performance while breaking down naturally, avoiding microplastic pollution.