Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) – Essential Oil

Vetiver, also called khus-khus is perennial grass in the family Poaceae which includes other grasses such as Lemongrass, Citronella and Palmarosa. The roots of the Vetiver grass are very aromatic and used to make an essential oil. Vetiver is native to India and tropical Asia and has been introduced into the tropics of both hemispheres. While Vetiver is native to India, the plant was introduced to Haiti in the 1940s and Haiti quickly became the biggest exporter of the oil. 

 Since ancient times, the entire Vetiver plant has been used for making of perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics. Used in foods and drinks, Vetiver was made into a cooling beverage and sorbet flavoring. In some tropical countries, Vetiver roots were traditionally used in the production of homemade evaporative coolers, which functioned as air conditioners. Since the Middle Ages, Vetiver Oil was most used in scents because of it’s deep and woody aroma for masculine colognes. As early as the 12th century, the Vetiver essential oil has been used around the world for it’s soothing, calming, grounding and protective properties. 

Vetiver essential Oil is known as both the “Oil of Tranquility” and “The Fragrance of the Soil” in India and Sri Lanka. Vetiver has been used topically to firm, tighten, and protect skin against the harsh effects of environmental stressors. Vetiver has been used for it’s anti-septic properties to eliminate and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Used traditionally in massages to increase circulation, boosts the metabolism and digestion, eases muscular aches, and soothes joint pain. Vetiver Oil is used Ayurvedic massages for its properties to strengthen the nervous system by sedating the senses and thereby reducing the stress and physical exhaustion. Inspired by Ancient Chinese beliefs, to balance the emotions, to ease negative feelings, to stimulate focus and energize the body, and to calm and cool the body. 

Blends well with: Bergamot, Lavender and Frankincense.

How to use: 

• For a Calming blend to help with stress and sleep combine Vetiver with Bergamot, Lavender and Frankincense serrata and apply to pulse points and feet.
• To ease muscular and joint pain combine Vetiver with Frankincense carterii, Rosemary and Marjoram.
• For a Tighten and toning elixir for the face combine Vetiver with Egyptian geranium and Sandalwood in Apricot oil. 

Cautions & contraindications: 

External use only. Do not use undiluted. Avoid eye area and if epileptic or pregnant. Information provided does not substitute for professional advice and care.