Vetiver Essential Oil
Vetiver is a perennial grass of the Poaceae native to India. The name "Vetiver" is native to Tamil language and means 'Hatchet Up' referring to the way the roots are harvested. Old Tamil literature mentions the usage of vetiver for medical purposes. Vetiver can grow up to 1.5 meters high and form clumps as wide. The stems are tall and the leaves are long, thin and rather rigid. The flowers are brownish purple. Unlike most grasses which form horizontally spreading mat-like root systems, vetiver's roots grow downward up to 2-4 meters in depth. Vetiver is closely related to other fragrant grasses such as Lemon Grass, citronella and Palmarosa. Though it originates in India, Vetiver is widely cultivated in the tropical regions of the world. Large producers include Haiti, India, Java, and Réunion.
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| Botanical Name: | Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash |
| Family: | Poaceae aka Gramineae |
| Synonyms: | Andropogon muricatus, Chrysopogon zizanoides vetivert, khus khus, akar wangi . |
| See Also: | |
| Parts Used: | Dried roots and rootlets |
| Extraction Method: | Steam Distillation |
| Appearance: | Dark brown to amber |
| Aroma Description: | Deep, smoky, earthy, slightly fruity. |
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| Consistancy: | Thick |
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| Historical Uses: | Traditionally used in India and Sri Lanka as a perfume. |
| Modern Uses: | Vetiver is used to heal acne, wounds, and cracked and excessively dry skin. The aroma is relaxing and an antidepressant. In lotions or massage oil, it eases muscular pain, sprains, and stimulates circulation. Use to scent soaps, perfumes, cosmetics and other aromatic products. |
| Cautions: | Vetiver is considered a safe oil being non toxic and non irritant. |
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