Snuggle Up and Smell the Roses: An Introduction to Textile Aromatherapy

Imagine climbing into bed after a long day, surrounded by the calming scent of lavender. Or picture putting on your favorite stress-reducing yoga pants infused with a hint of invigorating peppermint. That's the power of textile aromatherapy!

What is Textile Aromatherapy?

Textile aromatherapy is the practice of incorporating essential oils into fabrics to create garments, bedding, and other textiles that deliver therapeutic benefits through scent. Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. Textile aromatherapy combines the sense of smell with the touch of fabric to create a multi-sensory experience that can promote relaxation, improve mood, and even boost immunity.

How Does it Work?

There are three main ways essential oils are incorporated into textiles:

• Microencapsulation: Essential oils are encased in tiny capsules that burst when rubbed or heated, releasing the fragrance gradually over time.
• Coating: Fabrics are dipped or sprayed with a solution containing essential oils. This method typically results in a shorter-lasting scent.
• DIY:  Spray your own fabrics.  That way you can use the right oil for what you need right now.,

As you wear or use the textiles, the essential oils are released into the air, where they are inhaled and absorbed through the skin.

Since it is pretty hard to find textiles that are already infused and then you are limited to what they already infused into them the DIY method is the easiest and best way to do it so here are some oils and what they can do for you below.

Aromatherapy Benefits at Your Fingertips

Different essential oils offer a variety of potential benefits. Here's a quick guide to some popular scents and their associated effects:

• Lavender: Promotes relaxation and restful sleep
• Peppermint: Boosts energy and alertness
• Lemon: Improves mood and reduces stress
• Chamomile: Eases anxiety and promotes relaxation
• Tea Tree: May offer antimicrobial and antifungal properties

Here are some DIY recipes for essential oil sprays using the oils above

General Tips:

• Always use distilled water in your spray bottle. Tap water can contain minerals that can degrade the essential oils and clog the sprayer.
• Use a glass spray bottle. Plastic can absorb some of the essential oils, making the spray less effective over time.
• Patch test the spray on a small area of skin before using it liberally. Some essential oils can irritate sensitive skin.

Calming Lavender Spray:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz glass spray bottle
  • 2 tbsp witch hazel (or vodka)
  • 15 drops lavender essential oil
  • Distilled water to fill the bottle
• Instructions:
  1. Add the witch hazel (or vodka) to the spray bottle.
  2. Add the lavender essential oil.
  3. Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled water.
  4. Put the lid on and shake well.
  5. Spray on pillows, linens, or in the air for a calming effect.

Invigorating Peppermint Spray:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz glass spray bottle
  • 2 tbsp witch hazel (or vodka)
  • 20 drops peppermint essential oil
  • Distilled water to fill the bottle
• Instructions:
  1. Follow steps 1-4 from the calming lavender spray recipe.
  2. Use 20 drops of peppermint essential oil instead of lavender.
  3. Shake well and use to freshen the air or spray on surfaces like yoga mats for an invigorating scent.

Uplifting Lemon Spray:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz glass spray bottle
  • 2 tbsp witch hazel (or vodka)
  • 15 drops lemon essential oil
  • Distilled water to fill the bottle
• Instructions:
  1. Follow steps 1-4 from the calming lavender spray recipe.
  2. Use 15 drops of lemon essential oil instead of lavender.
  3. Shake well and use to uplift the mood or freshen the air in kitchens or bathrooms.

Soothing Chamomile Spray:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz glass spray bottle
  • 2 tbsp witch hazel (or vodka)
  • 10 drops Roman chamomile essential oil (or 15 drops German chamomile)
  • Distilled water to fill the bottle
• Instructions:
  1. Follow steps 1-4 from the calming lavender spray recipe.
  2. Use chamomile essential oil. Roman chamomile is generally gentler, while German chamomile is known for its stronger sedative effects. Choose the type based on your preference.
  3. Shake well and use to promote relaxation before bed or to create a calming atmosphere.

Multi-purpose Tea Tree Spray:

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz glass spray bottle
  • 2 tbsp witch hazel (or vodka)
  • 10 drops tea tree essential oil
  • Distilled water to fill the bottle
• Instructions:
  1. Follow steps 1-4 from the calming lavender spray recipe.
  2. Tea tree oil is a powerful oil, so start with a lower concentration (10 drops). You can increase to 15 drops if needed, but be sure to dilute it properly and do a patch test first.
  3. Shake well and use as a surface cleaner (dilute further for this purpose) or for spot treating blemishes (avoid direct contact with eyes).

Important Note:

• Safety first: Essential oils are concentrated and can be irritating to the skin and eyes. Be sure to dilute them properly and avoid contact with mucous membranes.
• Research individual oils: Before using any essential oil, research its properties and safety precautions. Some essential oils are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for young children.

Enjoy creating your own DIY essential oil sprays and incorporating the benefits of aromatherapy into your daily life!

Important Considerations

• Research essential oils before using them. Some essential oils can be irritating to the skin or have other health risks.
• Test a small amount of the essential oil on an inconspicuous area of fabric before using it all over.
• Be aware that the scent of essential oils may not last forever, especially with coated fabrics. You may need to reapply the essential oil periodically.

Textile aromatherapy is a safe and natural way to experience the benefits of aromatherapy in your everyday life. So next time you're looking for a way to unwind after a long day or boost your mood, consider incorporating some aromatherapy textiles into your routine!

Please note: While there is a growing body of research on the potential benefits of aromatherapy, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils for medicinal purposes.

Research Source https://www.proquest.com/docview/2756684179?sourcetype=Scholarly%20Journals