Vetiver essential oil | Chrysopogon zizanioides

Vetiver essential oil | Chrysopogon zizanioides

Traditional use: The essential oil obtained from vetiver is particularly popular in India and Sri Lanka, where it is known as the “oil of peace,” and the “scent of the earth,” as it has a sensual and deep aroma. Since ancient times, almost the entire plant has been used for a variety of purposes, including perfumes, soaps and cosmetics. It also served as an aromatic additive to food and beverages. In tropical countries, vetiver roots were traditionally used to cool food, as they helped to keep the temperature down when combined with specially prepared drapes. Since the Middle Ages, however, vetiver oil has been increasingly used as an ingredient in fragrances. Its unique, intriguing aroma began to be associated with men’s colognes. As early as around the 12th century, vetiver herb and the essential oil extracted from its roots were used widely for their soothing and strengthening properties. In Ayurvedic practices, vetiver oil was used as a remedy for a number of ailments, including: psychosomatic imbalances, arthritis, muscle pain, fevers and skin problems. In areas where high ambient temperatures prevail, the refreshing and relaxing effects of this oil make it an ideal support for well-being. The oil has become an integral part of Ayurvedic massages due to the fact that it supports the nervous system, but also helps to reduce stress and physical exhaustion associated with low immunity. Today, vetiver oil continues to find recognition among aromatherapy experts, who appreciate not only its deep, woody-spicy aroma, but also its wide range of health-promoting properties.

Occurrence: Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) is a species of perennial grass belonging to the Poaceae family of plants. It reaches a height of about 1.5 meters and forms extensive, wide clumps. Its stems are stiff and relatively thick, while its leaves are thinner and slightly less rigid. The plant has an extensive root system, which, unlike many other grass species, grows down to a depth of about 2-4 m. Vetiver tolerates harsh weather conditions well – its stems are adapted to take in significant amounts of water, and it is highly resistant to frost and even fire. 

Vetiver is native to India, although it is now also grown in many other Southeast Asian countries. Among the largest producers of this plant are: Haiti, Indonesia, the island of Réunion and India, where the plants used in the production of our oil come from.

Biochemistry: Vetiver oil contains more than 150 active compounds, with the most significant being vetiverol, khusimol, vetiverene, alpha-vetiverone, vetiverol acetate, valerenol and benzoic acid. The oil available in our offer is obtained by steam distillation from the roots of vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides), which originates from India. Thanks to that, each drop contains an optimal concentration of active ingredients and a unique bouquet of aromas specific to this plant.

Fun fact: The name “vetiver” comes from the Tamil word வெட்டிவேர் (veṭṭivēr), which means “root that is dug.” In northern India it is also called “khus,” which simply means “grass.”