Fragrance-release Property of β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion Compounds and their Application in Aromatherapy

Fragrance compounds and essential oils are chosen carefully taking advantage of research works in aromatherapy. Considering their volatile nature, the fragrance molecules have to be formed as inclusion compounds with cyclodextrin molecules in order to retain fragrances for a long time. To prepare aromatherapeutic textiles, β-cyclodextrin is the first choice as the host molecule, because β-cyclodextrin molecules are capable of forming inclusion compounds with organic compounds that fit into their own cone-shaped hydrophobic cavities. As a result of the inclusion, the physicochemical properties of the compounds are changed; for example, the vapor pressure of the volatile substance is reduced and the stabilities against light and air are enhanced. The functional textile with the “guest-host” effect may be achieved by anchoring the inclusion compound. The sedative effects for emotion and the pharmaceutical effects of essential oils are shown in detail. X-ray powder diffraction spectrum shows that lavender oils can form inclusion compounds with β-cyclodextrin. The effects of the nature of essential oils, such as detection threshold and tenacity on the fragrance-release property are discussed. The inclusion compounds are fixed onto fabric by the traditional pad method to obtain the medical textile with aromatherapy effect. The results of sensorial evaluations shows that the perfume of the fabrics can last for more than 30 days.