Chrysopogon zizanioides, commonly known as vetiver, is a perennial grass that belongs to the Poaceae family, which is native to India. It is commonly known as Khus in Western and Northern India. Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides) which is derived from a Tamil word means “hatcheted up”. can normally grow up to 1.5 meters, and have tall stems and long, thin, and rigid leaves. Its flowers are brownish-purple. Vetiver hails from India but is extensively cultivated in the world’s tropical regions. Today it’s also widely produced in Haiti, Java, Japan, the Philippines, and Reunion. A fast-growing perennial can survive up to 50 years or more, as all those green leaves are sustained by a vast network of underground, interlinked roots.

Vetiver oil is distilled from the plant’s roots, and it contains over 100 components. The important compounds of vetiver are khusimene, delta-selinene, beta-vetivenene, cyclocopacamphan-12-ol (epimers A and B), vetiselinenol, khusimol, isovalencenol, khusimone, alpha-vetivone and beta-vetivone. The oil is amber-brown in color, and it’s described as a sweet, woody and smoky fragrance. Similar to patchouli oil and sandalwood essential oil, the odor of vetiver develops and improves with aging, and the scent varies depending on the plant’s location.

Vetiver is known as a sacred herb valued because of its uplifting, soothing, healing and protective properties. It’s a natural body cooler, making it extremely popular in tropical countries. In fact, in India and Sri Lanka it’s known as the "oil of tranquility". The sweet, woody, earthly and reviving fragrance of this natural oil encourages confidence and kindles the aura of human body by transforming the aura of nature flawlessly, where aura is the uniqueness or radiation of every substance in the cosmos. This essential oil is very popular in aromatherapy and has several medicinal properties.

Some of vetiver oil uses include treating heat strokes, joint disorders and skin problems. Using vetiver oil is also a way to boost energy levels when you’re exhausted. In addition, it’s used to cool the body during very high temperatures and soothe feelings of anxiety and nervousness.

Recent research credits vetiver oil for treating symptoms of ADHD and ADD. It’s also known to increase libido and remedy insomnia without drugs. There are a number of vetiver oil benefits that you can take advantage of in the comfort of your home; the essential oil is perfect for skin care products and relaxing oil combinations.

According to Ayurveda, every living thing on this earth takes up the life energy known as prana and the nutritive essence known as ojas from earth. Plants take up prana and ojas from soil and convert it into medicines, foods and essential oils for the use of other living organisms on earth.

Among all the plant varieties on the universe, the best one to incarcerate the fine intricacies of the earth’s mystifying aroma is Vetiver. Commonly known as Khus in India, Vetiver has come a long way from a cooling herb to a vital ingredient in thousands of contemporary perfumes and the base for all these evolutions is its miraculous medicinal values celebrated in the world of Ayurvedic medicine.

Ayurveda is a holistic approach that considers human body as a temple where the soul unites with the Creator and trusts that this union is the underlying reason for good health. According to this miraculous science every human being has three distinct doshas among which one dosha stays predominant and this decides the character and persona of an individual. They are vata, pitta and kapha.

The imbalance of any one of these doshas causes illness and indicates that the body is out of balance. Vata imbalance can cause insomnia, loss of memory, fever, dry skin, constipation, restlessness and fear. Pitta imbalance might cause anger, high blood pressure, disgust, heartburn, ulcer, jealousy and skin irritation. Lethargic attitude, congestion, delayed digestion, sluggishness and obesity are caused by Kapha imbalance.

Ayurvedic texts exclaim Vetiver essential oil as a pacifying oil with its relaxing effects for treating vata imbalances and calming the mind. It is also said that the cooling properties of this oil can be highly beneficial in treating pitta imbalances like anger, heartburn and much more.

The historical healing practices and priceless medicinal values of Vetiver essential oil has made it a principal part of Abhyanga or the Ayurvedic massage therapy that is trusted to strengthen the nervous system, calm the nerves, soothe the senses, work against stress and exhaustion.

Since the Vetiver essential oil is famous for soothing and cooling effects, can help to provide relief from a variety of inflammatory complaints. It is perfect in providing relief from inflammation in both the circulatory and nervous systems. Vetiver oil cools and soothes and can be applied topically to ease inflammation of the joints and the skin and is especially useful to those with rheumatoid arthritis and skin inflammation caused by wind and sunstroke. It is one of the top 16 essential oils to relieve pain and inflammation. It is also found to be a suitable treatment for swelling due to sun stroke, dehydration and very hot and dry winds prevalent to LU, which is the name given on dry days in the dry regions of India and neighboring countries.

If you are suffering from inflammation, try drinking a cup of Vetiver water, it will greatly help reduce the inflammation very fast. It is the best treatment for sunburn and dehydrated skin inflammation. Always dilute the essential oil with a carrier oil such as Coconut oil before applying on your body and skin. A few drops will suffice. Gently massage the oil into your muscles or affected area.

Antioxidants are substances that help prevent certain types of cell damage, especially those caused by oxidation. When certain types of oxygen molecules are allowed to travel freely in the body, they cause what’s known as oxidative damage, which is the formation of free radicals, which are very dangerous to the body’s tissues. Some benefits of consuming antioxidant-rich foods and herbs include slower aging, healthy and glowing skin, reduced cancer risk, detoxification support, and longer life span.

Vetiver oil displays some interesting lipoxygenase inhibitory activity, as already noticed in the literature, even it has never been used in aromatherapy for this potential. One could imagine the creation of Vetiver oil-based ingredients that would therefore have the dual function of perfuming and of skin soothing via this anti-inflammatory potency. Vetiver oil displays no interesting anti-aging activity, as no inhibitory activity of collagenase or hyaluronidase was observed and only a weak anti-elastasic activity was evidenced.

You can benefit from the protective effects of vetiver by directly inhaling the oil, or you can also diffuse the oil into the air in your home or office for protective benefits.

Free Radicals:

Free radicals causes so many problems in our body from inflammation to rapid aging of skin and hair. One of the best ways to get rid of free radicals is to consume antioxidant rich foods and vetiver water is one such ingredient. It is a natural antioxidant that scavenges free radicals and reduces oxidative stress, you can read the study that supports this claim here.

In addition to boosting the immune system, antioxidants help detox the body by removing free radicals that may be causing damage to organs and tissues. Toxins build up can be attributed to factors such as improper diet, poor sleep habits, stress and pollutants, and can disrupt metabolic processes by interfering with the function of body systems.

Vetiver essential oil has been traditionally used for alleviating emotional stress, nervousness, panic attacks, trauma, anxiety, insomnia, hysteria, debility and depression. The sedative, strengthening, tonic and nervine properties of this oil make it the perfect natural choice for assisting problems associated with the mind. It stabilizes the mind, strengthens the nervous system, tranquilizes the mind and body, rejuvenates the entire system, boosts the immune power and induces peaceful sleep.

Adding few drops of Vetiver oil to carrier oils like Grape seed oil or Coconut oil for an enlivening massage can grant you great relief from all these conditions. You can also add 3 to 4 drops of Vetiver oil to warm bathing water and bathing in this medicated water before sleep will relax your muscles, reduce pain and help you sleep tight.

Stress and Depression:

Vetiver oil has been used as a top-tier ingredient in aromatherapy and naturopathy. It contains ingredients like khusimone, vetivenene, vetiselinenol etc. These ingredients are responsible for its characteristic smell and activity. Furthermore, these compounds have potent antioxidative, chelating, anxiolytic, and neuroprotective effects. Vetiver essential oil also helps in managing depression and stress and also helps in improving the condition of memory loss or dementia and oxidative stress.

Anxiety:

Vetiver oil has been used in aromatherapy for relaxation and alleviating emotional stress, panic attacks, trauma, anxiety, insomnia, hysteria and depression. The smell of Vetiver has a soothing effect on our nerves and helps calm our anxious brain. It also helps reduce stress and is good for people suffering from mental problems.

People with nervous disorders also will benefit taking Vetiver extract regularly as Vetiver water or use Vetiver essential oil. Vetiver water has a calming effect on the nerves and helps reduce anxiety. It also helps cure painful urination, ulcers and bad breath. Regular intake of this aromatic water helps in general well being and it acts as a blood purifier. Traditionally Vetiver water is always made in clay pots.

You can also add a few drops of vetiver essential oil to a hot bath soak at night. Or you can try adding a few drops to your favorite massage oil for extra benefits to your mental health.

Enhances Mood:

Vetiver is widely known for treating depression, anxiety, nervousness, and insomnia, thus calming the mind. It is also used to soothe muscle aches and menstrual cramps which is all because of its anti-inflammatory properties. in addition to this, it also leads to an improvement in blood circulation and immunity.

Vetiver can play an essential role in improving beauty and enhancing overall health. It is very famous for its aromatherapy that keeps your mind calm and reduces depression and gives peaceful sleep. You will get relief from insomnia.

The natural and the musk aroma make it an utterly profound experience; It’s just as pleasurable as the treatment.

Benefit for Nervous System:

Vetiver essential oil possesses nervine properties making it an effective tonic for your nerves. This oil maintains the health of the nervous system and can help to heal nerve damage caused by shock, stress, and anxiety. It is used to treat a range of nervous disorders, anger, irritability, neurosis, and hysteria.

As a result, vetiver oil reduces stress and mental fatigue and can help with sleep disorders like insomnia. So if life is getting you down and you are feeling overly emotional or stressed, vetiver essential oil is a great way to calm down your mind and to start feeling balanced again.

Benefit for the Mind:

Vetiver essential oil is one of the best natural remedies for stress, depression, and anxiety. Moreover, it helps to increase your mental conditions. It is a healing oil that acts on the seven wheels of the human body. You can spread it in the air or use a few drops on your neck, wrists, and chest.

Apply directly on your forehead and give a mild massage. Sleep for some hours. You will get relief from a severe headache. Vetiver essential oil is non-toxic and generally safe, but you should consult your doctor before deciding to use it to cure a health condition.

Emotional Benefits:

Essential oils are extracts derived from the leaves, seeds, roots, and flowers of herbal plants. Vetiver essential oils are derived from the distillation of the Vetivers’ roots. The roots of vetiver plants are rich with more than 150 known compounds. The chemical compositions of the roots provide a pleasant and earthy aroma with a huge amount of therapeutic components. Vetiver essential oil is commonly used for aromatherapy to eliminate stress and promote deep relaxation. Inhaling the scent of the Vetiver can reduce depression, nervousness, panic, and trauma.

If you think that you need to calm yourself down for any reason, having a bottle of Vetiver essential oil can soothe nervousness and panic. Add few drops of the essential oil to your essential oil diffuser to allow it to disperse in the air. You may also smell the oil’s aroma from the bottle to relax your nerves and uplift your mood.

Mental Fatigue:

Calming:

Nowadays people are more stressed than ever. Vetiver essential oil is rich in sesquiterpenes, which contain grounding properties. When used on the skin or inhaled, it can help provide a calming and grounding effect on emotions.

After a difficult day, apply to your neck and feet to promote feelings of calm.

Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):

Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder is one of the most common disorders among young children today and it usually starts before the age of seven and persists throughout the life. A study done opened new possibilities of using aromatherapy for treating ADHD children. Using vetiver oil improved cognition in such children by stimulating the action centers in their brains. Reports say that about 4 to 6% of Americans are affected by ADHD. This arises when an individual is excessively diverted, agitated and impetuous for more than six months.

The direct effects of aromatherapy inhalation on the limbic system (responsible for reason and choices, among other things) make it a perfectly suited remedy and tool for conditions like ADHD and anxiety, which can be a trigger for ADHD and like concerns.

The study found that the relaxing and calming properties of Vetiver oil helped the children combat their ADHD and ADD symptoms, which typically include difficulty in concentrating, diminished focus, being easily distracted, difficulty with organization and following directions, impatience, and fidgety behavior. The research that is being done to support vetiver oil, and other essential oils, as an effective natural remedy for ADHD is an exciting and much-needed prospect.

As suggested in this research, you can use an inhalation device to improve brain health with vetiver oil. If you don’t have a device, you can inhale the scent from a small bottle of vetiver essential oil. We’re always excited to see more research confirming actions like this, but when all you have to do is inhale the aroma to test it for yourself.

But more research is needed to suggest definitively that vetiver essential oil would work for the purpose of treating ADHD. In the meantime, there are other essential oils with demonstrated benefits for ADHD.

Convulsions:

Another significant effect of vetiver is its anticonvulsant properties. Traditionally it has been used as a remedy for treating seizures. Now this traditional use has been backed by research, both the ethanol extract and the water extract of vetiver root has been proven to be very effective in preventing convulsions.

Vetiver extract helps restore skin barrier and also has anti aging properties. Vetiver extract if used on our skin regularly, improves hydration and gives a radiant glow to our skin. It also helps treat acne very effectively, we always include Vetiver in bath powder recipes. Vetiver is a cicatrisant, which means that it promotes regeneration of the tissues and skin cells. Its healing properties make Vetiver oil a great remedy for scars and other marks on the skin, including stretch marks, acne, and burns. With its promising antiseptic properties, Vetiver essential oil has been proven effective in combating bacteria and other harmful microbes. It stops wounds and other skin infections from being septic and it efficaciously curbs the growth of the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria that is often accountable for causing septic. The anti-aging benefits and the cell regeneration properties of this oil makes it an effective natural remedy for treating stretch marks, acne, burns, fat cracks and certain other skin disorders.

To use this, you can mix a few drops of the oil in your face wash that you use and wash your face, body soap or lotions. You can also mix it with other oils such as the Jojoba oil or Coconut oil (as both these oils are good for the skin) and apply it to your skin for rejuvenating the skin cells and getting clear, soft, smooth and well nourished skin. Or make your own lotion by mixing a few drops of Vetiver oil to one tablespoon of carrier oil such as Coconut or Jojoba oil for added anti-inflammatory benefits.

Enhances the Quality of Skin:

Our skin experiences acne and pimples due to the growth of bacteria and germs. Hence it helps to cease the growth of these skin problems. It can be used simply by adding a few drops of vetiver oil in your face wash for naturally healthy skin. It can also be simply used by mixing in coconut or any other oil and can be applied to the skin as a healthy moisturizer. Therefore, one can also use vetiver oil as an essential oil for a change apart from lavender or tea tree oil.

Vetiver essential oil has the solution for almost all your skin problems. Be it pimples, acne, scars, uneven skin tone, wrinkles, or even microbial infection. The oil can regulate the level of melanin in your skin cells due to its antioxidative activity. Therefore, it can prevent pigmentation and heal scars.  Add it to food, drugs, and cosmetics. This oil is extensively used in the perfume industry. It also works as an antimicrobial agent. Using vetiver oil in perfumes and cosmetics would mean having medicinal value coupled with its soothing fragrance.

Winter Skincare Remedy:

During winter many of us will suffer from various skin problems, such as dryness. To avoid this, you can use Vetiver to make small batches of bath powder. To make this you first need to dry the Vetiver and green gram dal under the sunlight to turn them crisp. The crus it into a fine powder. You may also use milk or yogurt to turn into a paste mixture.

Due to the strong aromatic smell of Vetiver, it is recommended to use only a pinch of those to make the powder. The powder is very effective for babies as it does not contain any chemical mixtures. Also, because Vetiver and green gram dal are both known for its cooling feature, you can also use this remedy for the summer season.

Intensive Nutrition:

The high-water retention capacity of vetiver keeps the skin hydrated and can help nourish dry and flaky skin. It also regulates sebum production that keeps the skin moisturized without causing greasiness and promoting natural glow at the same time.

Deep Refinement:

Its antibacterial properties help remove dirt and contaminants that sit deep in the pores of the skin and lead to blackheads, acne, whiteheads, and cysts. Therefore, it acts as an excellent, natural cleanser that destroys the skin, fights infections and allergies, and gives a radiant complexion.

Skin Aging (Wrinkles):

A power plant of antioxidants, Vetiver cleanses the system of toxins and free radicals, which cause signs of aging, fine lines, discoloration, and pigmentation. It protects the environment from invaders, which is a major problem of premature aging. You can apply this essential oil on a regular basis for a youthful appearance.

Skin Blemishes:

Vetiver essential oil has cicatrisant properties, which basically means that it can help to promote the healing of scarring and other marks on the skin. As well as accelerating the disappearance and eradication of scar marks, it also stimulates the growth and production of new tissue. Vetiver essential oil can help pregnant women to lose or at least reduce the appearance of their stretch marks, as well as skin cracks and pits left by burns, fat cracks or spots left by smallpox.

Skin Scrubs:

Many of this Vetiver skins scrubs are being sold in the ayurvedic shop. The scrubs are long lasting and can be used multiple times. The fragrance is great and also, long lasting. It is also has been proven to exfoliate dead cells from your body and improves your blood circulation. You can also make one of your own by tying a handful of Vetiver dry roots in a way to form a scrub. Before using you need to soak it in the water for few minutes and your scrub is ready.

Scars and Marks:

Vetiver oil is a cicatrisant, which means it heals scars by promoting the regeneration of skin and tissue. It revitalizes the skin and removes dark spots or signs of acne and pox. It’s also anti-aging oil and efficiently treats stretch marks, cracks and other skin disorders. Plus, it works as a home remedy for burn relief as well as a home remedy for acne. This can be effective for women who have stretch marks after childbirth.

Vetiver oil is an antiseptic, meaning that when it’s applied to living tissue or skin, it reduces the possibility of infection and kills bacteria.

By adding a few drops of vetiver oil to your face wash, body soap or lotion, you will notice the difference, your skin will be even or your complexion will improve.

Acne:

Vetiver is an antibacterial and antimicrobial agent that is very effective in preventing acne. Nowadays Vetiver essential oil is getting popular for it’s wonderful antiseptic properties. Vetiver is used as a face pack along with Sandalwood for making an effective treatment for acne.

If this time of year comes, the air is heavy with moisture, which is a common skin concern for acne during the rainy season. Vetiver contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, so that it is one of the best natural remedies for acne, rashes, and blisters. By using this herb regularly, you can prevent sudden breakouts. Unlike anti-acne resorts, which are strong, often tough on the skin, the Vetiver is soft and sweet and is an excellent choice if you have sensitive skin.

You can start your own home remedy for acne with these simple steps. Firstly, you need to soak Vetiver’s roots in water and leave for one full night. After that, you can use the Vetiver water to make Sandalwood paste by bark and rub the Sandalwood and mix it with the water. Lastly, add few drops of Vetiver essential oil. You have to apply the paste on the affected area continuously for the best result.

You can mix a few drops of essential oil in your face wash. You can also mix this essential oil with another Jojoba, Coconut oil, and apply it in your skin directly. Wait for the result and you will get soft and nourished skin. Moreover, it reduces the risk of the aged look.

Antiseptic:

In tropical countries like India and its neighbors, microbes and bacteria found in these areas grow very rapidly due to the favorable hot and humid weather. Then, it becomes clear that your wounds are most likely to get sepsis in these places since there are plenty of bacteria located there. However, Mother Nature is very compassionate and she has provided treatment as well, right in those exact same places. One such remedy is the vetiver and essential oil is extracted from it. This oil efficiently stops the development of Staphylococcus aureus, causing bacterial sepsis and responsible for eliminating them. It is completely safe for this oil to be applied externally on wounds and not to be taken orally in order to protect internal organs from wounds as well as sepsis.

Apart from being used in perfume and food and beverage manufacturers, Vetiver has also been widely used for soap industries. Vetiver is known for its effectiveness in preventing and healing acne because of its antiseptic properties. Not only is being used in soap, Vetiver is also used as face pack along with Aloe Vera, Sandalwood, and many others, making it an effective treatment for acne.

Wounds, Rashes and Insect Bites:

Vetiver can increase and fastened tissue growth when you have cut yourself. The antiseptic feature of Vetiver is also keeping the wounds save from the infections or from bacteria and microbes growing in your wounds. Vetiver is usually used with Lavender oil to enhanced this benefit.

Dangerous wounds and rashes are usually caused due to tick bites or insect bites. A few common diseases that can arise out of these encounters are Lyme disease, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, etc. Applying vetiver oil can help repel the ticks that cause these rashes. Otherwise leading to fever, organ failure, sepsis, or (in worst cases) death.

Vetiver essential oil can be externally applied for promoting the growth of new tissues and thus helps in the healing the wounds. Even few drops of the essential oil can be added to the bathing water.

Cuts:

Vetiver oil is applied on the cuts to heal them with its antiseptic properties. It is used along with Lavender and Malaleuca oils.

Melanoma:

It is one type of skin cancer that may come from pigment-containing cells known as melanocytes. Vetiver essential oil has the potential to treat melanogenesis in melanoma cells. Take some drops of oil and apply it on your skin directly to get an effective result.

Vetiver water is excellent as a final rinse and it gives a nice sheen to the hair. To make Vetiver hair rinse, take a bunch of vetiver in a cup. Pour boiling water on top and let it infuse for 2 to 3 hours, after that strain the liquid and add few drops of Rosemary essential oil and mix well. Vetiver infused water also can be added to hair packs, it will help reduce dandruff, scalp inflammation and itching to a great extent.

Hair Health:

Nowadays, hair loss is the main problem for women, especially teenage girls. Stress, aging, nourishment loss may lead to the dry scalp and hair fall problems. Vetiver’s cell-renewing agent acts wonders for the man too. It promotes collagen formation, an essential component of hair, and strengthens the cell structure that regenerates hair. Besides, this power herb can cure any scalp irritation, dandruff, or inflammation.

Dandruff:

Excessive dry scalp, lack of moisture, and hygiene in the air and eventual itching and burning are the main reasons for dandruff. Aromatic oil with high specific gravity and powerful antimicrobial properties penetrates deep into the hair follicles, moisturizes the scalp, eliminates dryness, and stops itching.

Massage your scalp and hair with vetiver oil and almond oil before going to sleep. You will get better results. Take a steamed towel and wrap it around your scalp that allows the oil to enter deep into the sebaceous glands. Ideal it for overnight before shampooing your hair and rub a little lemon juice on the scalp.

Aphrodisiac:

Mental and physical stress can lead to a loss of libido or sex drive. When you live life in a stressed state, you deplete testosterone levels and feel a loss of sexual desires. Because Vetiver oil is proven to be an effective calming and sedative agent, it leaves your mind and body relaxed, which allows you to balance your hormones naturally.

Vetiver decoction has aphrodisiac properties and has been used traditionally for it for centuries. The water decoction of Vetiver is widely used for it. In some cultures vetiver water infusion is given to the groom for a few days before marriage. Since sex has more to do with the psychology of the brain than the physiology, a remedy for most sexual disorders like frigidity, lack of libido, and impotence. Certain components of this oil stimulate those portions of brain and your problems in the bedroom are over.

Many of us are looking for a way to spice up our sex lives and vetiver is commonly lauded these days for its aphrodisiac qualities. That being said, there is little or no literature to confirm its ability to stimulate the libido. There was no mention of Vetiver’s aphrodisiac qualities until the 1990s and it is possibly its sensual scent that has lent credence to vetiver’s use as an aphrodisiac. Nevertheless, its rich and sensual aroma might help you to get in the mood. As is always the case with aphrodisiac claims, there is certainly no harm in adding this to your aromatherapy arsenal.

Try adding a few drops of Vetiver oil to a carrier oil and massage your partner, or diffuse the oil with other essential oils that create relaxing yet sensually stimulating effect, such as Geranium, Jasmine, Patchouli, Sandalwood or Ylang-Ylang.

Reproductive System and Sexual Desire:

Vetiver essential oil is a natural aphrodisiac that increases libido and stimulates the sexual desire. Healthy and harmonious sex often has a deep connection with state of mind. A stress-free mind is the most vital requirement for sexual health and sexual disorders like frigidity, impotence, lack of libido are often vested with the limbic system of the brain.

Vetiver essential oil stimulates the limbic system, pacifies the mind and serves as an effective natural remedy for such health disorders. This oil strengthens the female reproductive system, aids in treating menstrual discomforts, balances female hormones and assists female infertility due to uterine problems with its gentle estrogen-like effects. Adding few drops of Vetiver essential oil to your massage blend, in a diffuser or your bath tub can help bring the best times together with your partner.

Vetiver essential oil is also known to promote oxygen, fortify the red blood cells and support blood circulation. It is also used as a warm pain-relieving oil to treat muscular pains, stiffness, arthritis, rheumatism, sprains and few other inflammatory conditions.

For all these medicinal values, vetiver oil is a part of the favorite massage oils like Ortho Sport and Ortho Ease. Vetiver essential oil is also used as flavoring oil in beverages and certain food items. It is also used in cosmetics, soaps and celebrated perfumes like Guerlain Vetiver and Dior Eau Sauvage and the amazing information is that it is used in 90 percent of every western perfume.

Add 2 drops of Vetiver oil, 2 drops of Lavender oil, 4 drops of Rose oil to 2 teaspoons of carriel oil like Sweet Almond. Add to a running bath and disperse with your hands. Relax for at least 10 minutes.

Increases Libido:

One of the most important health benefits of versatile Vetiver essential oil is that it increases libido. Using the Vetiver root oil along with some other essential oils helps in improving sex drive. It has calming effects in your senses. Moreover, it also reduces the stress levels that is caused by cortisol in your body and also stimulates the brain to secrete hormones such as testosterone, estrogen and several other related hormones that improves sexual desires.

No one enjoys being sick, that’s why it’s important to make sure your immune system is working well and doing it’s job. Vetiver oil contains immune-supporting properties and is a great way to fortify your immune system. Vetiver oil is a healthy ingredient to improve immunity by eliminating toxins from your body and can fight against free radicals. It is full of antioxidants hence helps to shield our immune system. It helps our body to fight with various infections, germs, and bacteria causing flu.

Vetiver oil can be consumed in various ways to improve immunity. It can be used as an essential oil in an oil diffuser to inhale its aromatic fragrance directly and boost the immune system or circulate them in your home.

Improves Body Function:

Vetiver oil boosts the immune and nervous system, as it’s a natural tonic. Its oil’s soothing and restorative attributes are also responsible for stimulating the immune system and and supporting the nervous system. When we’re stressed, adrenaline and cortisol flood the body, our blood pressure, breathing and heart rate increases. Glucose is then released into the bloodstream for ready energy. Digestion, growth, reproduction and immune system functions are suppressed or put on hold when we feel tense and anxious, and blood flow to the skin is decreased while pain tolerance is increased.

Ridding yourself of stress impacts your brain, heart, digestion, immune system and every other system in the body, so natural remedies for anxiety, like vetiver oil, can be extremely useful.

Vetiver oil is known to promote deep concentration.

Diffuse 2 drops cedarwood and 3 drops vetiver at homework time or in the office.

Improves Sleep:

Sleep is extremely important for the health of both the mind and body. When individuals do not receive adequate hours of sleep or have too many sleepless nights, body functions begin to slow down. Vetiver oil is a great essential oil for sleep and relaxation and can help give your body the sleep it needs.

The smell from these Vetiver curtains relaxes our mind and brings in peaceful sleep. Usually during the hot afternoons, water is sprinkled over these vetiver mats. When the hot air passes through the curtains, it cools the air and also adds it’s unique wonderful fragrance. It is much better than our regular air coolers, is very economical and saves so much of electricity.

Rub vetiver oil on the bottom of your feet to promote a restful night’s sleep.

Apnea and Insomnia:

Not having a good night’s sleep affects multiple aspects of your health and daily life. Sleep disorders like apnea and insomnia occur when there is malfunctioning in your Central Nervous System, Peripheral Nervous System, or respiratory system. Such problems can be addressed by using Vetiver oil. These oil modifies your respiratory patterns during sleep. Furthermore, it also activates the olfactory centers in your brain. As a result improving sleep quality, reduce snoring, and treating headaches.

Synergistic Sedative-Hypnotic Effects:

Stops Snoring:

Using Vetiver oil in a diffuser while you sleep could help improve your breathing patterns. Vetiver oil increased the quality of exhalation and decreased inhalation when sleeping study participants detected it. This could mean Vetiver oil could help people who snore heavily.

Muscle Pain:

If you are suffering from various muscle related pain, such as rheumatic, arthritis, muscle aches, gouts and much more, you can start using Vetiver oil as a home remedy. you may apply the Vetiver oil on the joints to relieve you from the pain.

Arthritis:

This oil can be used along with Frankincense and pain relieving essential oil mixtures. This blend can be applied on the joints to bring pain relief.

Spasms:

Menstrual Cramps:

To many women, the menstrual cramps are sometimes unbearable. To reduce the menstrual cramp, you may apply Vetiver oil on the affected area of your stomach or drink Vetiver water. You can also inhale the Vetiver fragrance to keep calm your mind.

Balances Hormones:

There can be a number of hormone-related issues that can be caused during menopause. Lower levels of estrogen are basically the cause behind the same. Vetiver essential oil can thus help support the regular menstrual cycle.

Tuberculosis:

Veriver extract like I mentioned before has wonderful antibacterial properties and is very effective against mycobacterium tuberculosis. Both the ethanol and hexane extract of the root has been proven to be very effective against tuberculosis. What is very significant is even after extracting the essential oil, the root was still effective against tuberculosis.

Chemotherapy:

It’s unclear from the study’s wording whether full vetiver essential oil was used or only an isolate but the results are interesting nonetheless. Damage to DNA, kidneys, and marrow from the toxic chemotherapy drugs were slowed compared to those mice without the oil, presumably because of its antioxidant capacity.

This study should give cancer patients much hope, especially those who are taking drugs that cause toxicity. Aromatic, internal and topical use of this strong antioxidant can be added to any essential oil cancer protocol.

Hyperglycemic:

Vetiver oil has proven anti-bacterial properties.

Try making your own facial wash or cleaner with vetiver oil without all the harsh chemicals. You can make your own cleaner by combining one cup of water with one tablespoon of baking soda, one tablespoon of vinegar and approximately 10 drops of Vetiver oil. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and use as a cleaner. Or you can add ½ cup of borax to 1 gallon (4 liters) of tepid warm water and add about 20 drops of Vetiver oil.

Apart from benefitting mankind in a number of ways, vetiver oil is also an effective pesticide, insecticide and has antitermitic properties.

Insect Repellent:

Depending on where you live and the time of year then insects like mosquitos might present a real problem. It is the rainy season where I live and as silly as it sounds, the mozzies (mosquitos) can really affect your quality of life by preventing you from sitting in the garden or keeping you awake with their incessant buzzing. The good news is that Vetiver essential oil can help to repel mosquitos and other annoying insects.

Repellent Termites:

The insects dislike the strong aroma of Vetiver. If you are struggling with insects, such as termites, Vetiver may be the best choice. You can diffuse Vetiver oil inside your home, such as in the basement or where the termites are usually being found by placing cotton balls which have been dipped in Vetiver oil before. You have to change the cotton balls periodically. Ground and surface treatments with vetiver essential oil are not only warranted for ticks, but possibly for termites, as well.

Together with tick prevention and elimination, Vetiver shows off its similarities to Citronella and Lemongrass in bug repelling effects. Treating vulnerable surfaces with a blended spray can be a quick, easy, non-toxic form of prevention.

Apply it generously on the affected areas of the furniture. Likewise, leave an opened vetiver oil bottle in your bookshelf and see the magic unfold. It is one of the most potent oils available against termites. In fact it is long-lasting and environment-friendly too.

Ticks:

Vetiver essential oil has insecticide properties that were shown to be effective against tick species like Rhipicephalus microplus and Amblyomma cajennense.

Lyme Disease:

Lyme disease is a painful and difficult to treat disease which spreads like wildfire in “tick season”, particularly in the south. It’s difficult to step outside without risking a tick bite. Some ticks carry Lyme disease from person to person, so their control is the first step in Lyme prevention and control. To further complicate the problem, ticks have seemed to become resistant to much of our control measures.

Vetiver essential oil remains one of the substances that can still affect ticks. Topical treatments as bug repellants are helpful, as well as sprays and treatments directly on surfaces where ticks may roam.

Vetiver Bath Powder:

Vetiver is an amazing ingredient to add in bath powders as it has wonderful anti bacterial properties and it also makes the bath powder smell very good. To make the bath powder, sun dry green gram dal and a small bunch of vetiver under hot sunlight till they get very crisp. Powder finely in a mixer, sieve and store.

Vetiver is very aromatic, so use just little to make this powder. Both vetiver and green gram powder are very cooling. This powder is excellent for small babies as it does not have any chemicals. Keep the left over powder in an airtight box away from moisture.

This bath powder does not strip the skin of the natural oils and regular use prevents black heads and softens the skin. This bath powder cleanses well and it can be made into a paste with water and used as a face scrub too. During winter season, mix the green gram powder with milk or yogurt and use.

Vetiver Bath Scrubs:

Many of you must have seen the round scrubs hanging in ayurvedic shops and those are vetiver scrubs. These scrubs are made from vetiver roots. Instead of using loofah sponges, we can try these natural scrubs. These scrubs are antibacterial, can be reused again and again and are greatly fragrant. It improves the circulation in the body and is used to exfoliate the dead cells naturally and keeps the body healthy.

Next time if you see these scrubs, give them a try. Before using it, soak it in water for some time and then use it like the regular loofah sponge. If you don’t get these sponges, you can make your own too. Take a thick bunch of dried vetiver roots and tie them into a bunch in such a way that it will be easy to use it as a scrub. Soak it in water for few minutes and your scrubber is ready.

Room Freshener:

You do not have to use essential oils for their therapeutic properties alone and while it is well known for its grounding properties, the scent alone can help your house smell nice and fresh and get rid of any nasty odors like that leftover from tobacco and cooking.

Deep-seated dirt and pollutants that get trapped in the skin pores and leads to blackheads, whiteheads, acne, and cysts can all be removed by vetiver and all thanks to its anti-bacterial shield. It thus works as a natural cleanser that helps treat infections and allergies.

Vetiver essential oil distilled from the roots also has wonderful benefits. It is used for treating acne, depression, arthritis, stress and for making perfumes, etc. Vetiver essential oil is also good for insomnia, a few drops of this essential oil rubbed on the feet calms the mind and brings in sleep for people who suffer from insomnia.

The roots of Vetiver are often steam distilled to essential oils. The essential oil has been extensively used and utilized in perfumery, soaps, cosmetics and much more. The composition of vetiver oil is extremely complex and includes various derivatives, compounds and as well as other various components such as esters. Vetiver oil can be found in the composition of almost 39% of world’s greatest perfume and twenty percent of those can be found in men’s perfume.

• Add 1–2 drops to tea or hot drinks during winter time to promote immunity.
• Use as a massage oil to encourage circulation and calm emotions.
• Take a warm bath with a few drops of Vetiver essential oil for deep relaxation.
• Diffuse with Lavender and Wild Orange to calm emotions and lessen stress.
• The earthy, slightly lemony fragrance is said to have been used for centuries in India. Dab on your wrists or neck. Try blending it with a floral aroma like Ylang Ylang or Clary Sage, or even a citrus like Bergamot.
• Its antiseptic properties help mildly cleanse the face. Test for sensitivity and mix one drop in 3 drops of coconut oil and apply to a freshly washed face.
• Make your own vetiver water by soaking clean vetiver roots in cooled boiling water for 2–3 hours. Make sure to cover the pot as the roots soak. The water has a calming effect on the body, and it acts as a blood purifier. It can also be used to rinse your hair to give you a cooling and refreshing feeling.
• Put 5–10 drops of vetiver oil in your bath water; because it’s both fragrant and cooling, using it in your bath prevents overheating and helps with relaxation and insomnia. To boost the calming results, combine vetiver oil with lavender and rose essential oils as well.
• To benefit your mind and mood, diffuse 3–5 drops of vetiver oil or place 1–2 drops on your wrists, chest and neck.
• Make your own calming massage oil by mixing 3–5 drops of vetiver oil with equal parts Jojoba oil. This combination leaves your skin clean and moisturized and your mind at peace.

Traditional Uses of Vetiver:

• Traditionally Vetiver is used to aid the health ailments such as circulation and nerve problems, muscle aches, insomnia, arthritis, rheumatism and painless as well as regular menstruation.
• It helps to promote fertility.
• It helps to lower the appearance of dark spots and marks on skin. It tones out the skin.
• Vetiver oil’s calming and soothing properties are said to dispel anger, hysteria and irritability, and reduce anxious behavior. This in turn decreases stress and tension.
• These revitalizing qualities make it helpful with physical and mental exhaustion, and for addressing issues ranging from general aches and pains to insomnia and anxious feelings.
• It reduces the appearance of rashes and skin redness caused due to sun damage.
• It is also helpful in severe skin conditions like dryness and flaking caused due to eczema.
• Vetiver oil clears acne and acne marks too.
• Paste made from the leaves is used to treat back and joint pain, sprains, fever, and scars.
• Paste is also used in medical emergencies like snake bites, scorpion stings, wounds, and burns.
• Vetiver is a traditional treatment for headaches, bladder infections, malaria, arthritis, muscle aches, and gout.
• It helps reduce wrinkles and stretch marks.
• It is beneficial for dry, irritated, and dehydrated skin.
• Essential oil of Vetiver used in aromatherapy for relieving stress, anxiety, nervous tension, and insomnia.
• The people of West Bengal and Bihar use the roots to treat snakebites, burn and scorpion sting.
• In West Bengal, root paste used for headache, rheumatism, and sprains. Stem decoction used for urinary tract infection.
• In Varanasi, root vapour inhaled for malarial fever.
• In Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh, the plant is used for the anthelmintic properties.
• In Madhya Pradesh, the juice extracted from leaf is used as an anthelmintic.
• The root decoction is used for the weakness.
• The paste made from roots is used to treat rheumatism, headache and sprains.
• The stem decoction is helpful for the infections on the urinary tract.
• The roots possess antifungal, cooling, diaphoretic, aromatic, expectorant, stimulant properties which help to treat skin ailments, insomnia, hysteria, amentia, asthma, amenorrhoea, gall stones and kidney problems.
• It helps to treat dysuria, fever, fatigue, burning sensation and skin disorders.
• It is used in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of arthritis, sprains and muscle pains.
•  In Ayurveda, different plant parts used for various ailments and diseases, including boils, burns, epilepsy, fever, scorpion stings, snakebites, mouth sores, headaches, lumbago, malarial fever.
• Decoction of roots used for tonic baths.
• Decoction of roots taken internally as a lithotripic - to dissolve or break kidney stones.
• Roots used for thirst, inflammation, acne, stomach irritability.
• Weak infusion of roots used for fever.
• Root used as carminative, stimulant, and diaphoretic.
• Root decoction taken internally for nervous and circulatory problems. Externally, used for tonic baths, muscle pains and treating lice.
• The Vetiver roots have incredible peeling properties.
• Soak these roots in water for up to 15 minutes and apply in a circular motion on the body. It removes dead skin cells and restores healthy radiance.

Culinary Uses of Vetiver:

• Oil sometimes used to flavor sherbets.
• The roots are used as a flavoring for foods.

Other Uses of Vetiver:

• It is widely used in the perfumes, cooling, food and beverage industries.
• It is also used to thatch roofs of earthen houses and mattresses.
• It is also used as curtains on doors and windows, which, apart from cooling and scenting the rooms, keeps insects away.
• It is used widely in the perfume industries, including perfumes for the body, room fresheners, and coolers, as well as cosmetics, soaps, oils.
• It is also used as a flavoring agent in beverages, sorbets, and food stuffs.
• Crafts / Weaving: Roots used for weaving fans, baskets, and making fragrant mats. Dried culms used for making brooms and to thatch roofs. Flower stalks are used in making mats, and occasionally, brooms. Leaves sometimes made into awnings and sunshades.
• Perfume: Prized for its agreeable odor, akin to that of sandal wood. Dried roots used to perfume clothes. Shavings used for filling sachet bags.
• Vetiver oil: Vetiver oil is a constituent of high-grade perfumes and cosmetics. Used for making agarbattis, massage blends, soaps, soft drinks, pan masala. Oil is mixed in sorbets and beverages as flavoring agent. Oil claimed to have an aphrodisiac effect. Vetiver oil is also known as Oil of Tranquility, with a fragrance all of its own, and with no synthetic substitute. Annual world trade in vetiver oil is estimated around 250 tons (about $20-200 million a year). Main producers are are Haiti, Indonesia, China, Japan, India, and Brazil, while main consumers are USA, Europe, India, and Japan.
• Phytotechnology: A super-absorbent and deep rooted perennial grass with use for landfill rehabilitation, erosion, and leachate control. Also recommended for rehabilitation of mining areas.
• Planting uses: Harvested leaves, culms, and roots utilized after processing as mulch, compost, nursery block of planting medium.
• Fodder: Young leaves grazed by cattle and sheep.
• Construction / Industrial products: Used for roof thatching, vetiver-clay composites, veneer-fiber board, ash for concrete work, straw bales, pulp and paper products.

Uses of Vetiver Root Powder:

• Vetiver, which is grown naturally in India, is widely known in Ayurveda for its cooling properties. It will soothe and calm your mind with a pleasant earthy scent while giving extra benefits to your skin.
• You can use this powder as the body cleanser. It can also be used for Ayurvedic dry body massage.
• Take fenugreek, turmeric flour, and vetiver powder. Mix them all. Massaging the body with these soft powders can stimulate lymphatic movement, promotes circulation, liquefies fat, improves skin health, and gives strength and tone to body tissues.
• It can also act as a fantastic exfoliant, and if you have done an oil massage, it also helps to eliminate excess oil from the skin.
• In addition to cure stress, sweet-smelling Vetiver root powder balances the function of sebaceous oil glands, has deodorizing properties, helps to normalize oily skin and replenishes moisture in dry and dehydrated skin. It also has a rejuvenating effect on mature skin.
• One of the best benefits of Vetiver is used to make potable water. Take a few grams of vetiver powder then mix it into the water. Filter the water and use it after 2 to 3 hours.
• Once you put the Vetiver into the water, it should only be used for up to 10 to 12 hours. You should replace the freshwater and Vetiver every day.

Uses of Vetiver for Skin:

• The Vetiver plant is a natural coolant. The root of the plant keeps the skin hydrated.
• The Vetiver oil has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that help fight acne, blisters, and rashes.
• Being a natural product, Vetiver uses are versatile. It is gentle on the skin and can be used by men who have sensitive skin.
• The Vetiver benefits as a natural cleanser are very effective. It helps to remove dirt and dust without making the skin dehydrated. It helps remove blackheads and whiteheads and helps to unclog pores.
• It is quite astonishing that veti veru benefits for skin are multifarious. They regulate the sebum production of the skin.
• The Vetiver or the lavancha plant keeps the skin moisturised and generates a glow from within that speaks volumes about the khus roots benefits.
• The Vetiver plants help reduce inflammation and redness of the skin and face. They help to cure sunburns.
• The Vetiver roots benefits are also effective in the treatment of scars. The khus oil has the potential to speed up cell growth. They are beneficial in the treatment of stretch marks and fat cracks.
• The Vetiver plant is filled with antioxidants, which stops the skin's signs of premature ageing. Regular use of khus oil in different forms can make the skin youthful and firm.

Anti-Inflammatory:

The soothing and cooling effect of organic vetiver essential oil calms and soothes all kinds of inflammations especially those related to circulatory and nervous systems.

Antiseptic:

The vetiver oil has antiseptic properties and can kill different types of bacteria.

Aphrodisiac:

This oil of vetiver has an aphrodisiac effect and can be added to different drinks for flavouring purposes. In addition, it increases libido.

Healing:

This natural oil has the capacity to heal wounds. In addition, it promotes growth of new tissues, prevents the development of microorganisms and protects from infection. The healing property of vetiver oil helps cure wounds by stimulating the development of new tissues and also protecting the wounded area from bacterial infections. Furthermore, it aids the accumulation of platelets and leucocytes at the wounded location.

Nervine:

Essential oil of vetiver takes care of the nerves and maintains their good health. It also heals the damage done to the nerves by shock, fear, and stress. Additionally, it helps get rid of nervous complaints, afflictions, epileptic and hysteric attacks, nervous and neurotic disorders like Parkinson’s Disease, and lack of control over limbs and spasms.

Restorer:

This property of vetiver essential oil helps to heal wounds by promoting the growth of new tissues in the injured places and also by preventing the growth of microbes and keeping them safe from infection. Eventually, it also promotes accumulation of leukocyte and platelets at that location.

Sedative:

Essential oil of vetiver is a well-known sedative. It tranquilizes nervous irritations, afflictions, convulsions and emotional outbursts like anger, anxiety, epileptic and hysteric attacks, restlessness, and nervousness. It even benefits patients that suffer from insomnia.

Tonic:

Tonic for the body is just like that extra oil for servicing your cars. Tonic can clean and tone up your body, from immune, nervous, respiratory, digestive and much more. Tonic rejuvenates your body and boosts your immune system. It is now easy to make your home Vetiver tonic. We start by making Vetiver water by soaking vetiver roots in boiling water and pours cold water on the on the top of it. You have to close the pot and let it still for two to three hours.

After the timer sets, the Vetiver essence will be infused with the water. Once the water is ready, cut few thin slices of line and add it to the water. You can now the drink the Vetiver water or you can strain it. The Vetiver water can be drink and it has a very cooling effect.

Vetiver water helps to cure bad breath and painful urination. Apart from being used as drinking water, the Vetiver water can also be used as the tonic for your hair by rinsing your hair with the water. Due to the unique and strong aroma of Vetiver, the vetiver water can later be used as aromatic water which helps to calm your nerves and stress level with regular intake.

Tranquilizer:

A tonic for the veins is called a nervine, like the essential oil of vetiver. It takes care of nerves and maintains their good health. It also heals damage to nerves from shock, fear, and stress. Furthermore, it helps relieve nervous disorders, afflictions, epilepsy and hysteric attacks, nervous and neurotic disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, and lack of control over extremities and spasms.

Vulnerary:

Vetiver essential oil helps heal wounds by promoting the growth of new tissues in wounded places and also by keeping it safe from infections by preventing growth of microbes. Finally, it also promotes the accumulation of leucocytes and platelets at that location.