Purpose This study aims to elaborate on the microencapsulation of the plant extract (PE, from Camellia sinensis leaf, clover flower and cocoa flower) and the preparation of a slow-release lining fabric loading the PE microcapsule. Design/methodology/approach PE was microencapsulated into polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) shells through interfacial polymerization. The morphology, thermal stability, slow-release property and drug loading ratio of the PVA/PE microcapsules were characterized to ensure the availability in coating finishing. To find the optimum parameters, the composite fabrics were prepared from non-woven fabrics coated by calcium alginate hydrogel, which glued mass fractions of microcapsules and dried in different ways. To evaluate the effectiveness, a lipase enzyme activity test was conducted. Findings Under optimal conditions, the PVA/PE microcapsules with smooth surface have an average particle size of 14.5 um, and they are expected to reach a loading ratio of 38.5 per cent while remaining stable under 220°C. Given a microcapsule of 4 per cent (of the mass), the composite fabric has a good hand feeling, being prepared through calcium chloride coating. It is shown that the inhibition ratios of the microcapsules and composite fabrics on lipase are 31.3 and 21.0 per cent, respectively. Research limitations/implications The composite fabric could be prepared through the other finishing methods such as padding and printing. In addition, the release mechanism of the composite could be studied. Practical implications This study provided a simple and effective way to prolong the duration of PE. This way was conductive to protect environmental sensitive PEs from being destroyed in compositing processes. Originality/value Preparing composite fabrics for transdermal delivery system was novel and other kind of plant extracts could be used in this way.