Study on the Aroma-Therapeutic Effects of Textiles Functionalized by Herbal Extracts

This study, referring to the biologically active compounds compatible with textile materials, reveals its influence on human psychophysiological activity. In the COFUND-MANUNET III-AromaTex project, essential oils extracted from lavender, rosemary, mint, thyme were studied and selected to be used for obtaining of aroma-therapeutic effects on textiles, as well as other various effects, such as: skin hydration and anti-acne, revitalizing and reducing stress, improving of microcirculatory blood flow and cellular metabolism. In recent years, electrophysiological studies have been reported worldwide that have shown that different flavors affect spontaneous brain activities and cognitive functions that can be measured by the EEG encephalogram. The presented study contributes to the optimization of formulations which contain essential oils adapted to the conditions of technologies application for deposition and immobilization on textiles, with a particular emphasis on the desired therapeutic effect and the controlled release of essential oils. Aromatherapy application in textile industry led to a series of value-added products that give besides comfort a number of other properties (anti-acne, antimicrobial, fragrance, anti-inflammatory sedation, or soothing properties). In recent years, aromatherapeutic textiles were applied in many fields such as food, cosmetics, medicine, tobacco, textiles, leather, papermaking and pharmaceutical industries. The purpose of this chapter was to present the essential oils used in textile finishing, textile supports used for aroma finishing, embedding methods and the controlled release of essential oils.