In Russia, the oil is placed in sachets and sewn into the linings of fur coats to protect against damage caused by moths...

Vetiver is a warming, grounding oil with a persistent and deep woody, earthy overtone and smoky undertones.

Only a small amount is needed, or the aroma takes over.

Nature: soothing, warming

The scent of vetiver is deeply relaxing, aiding those with insomnia or nervous tension.

Ideal in a bath or massage to loosen tight or stiff muscles.

Principal Actions: Immune system stimulant; tonic for liver and pancreas; grounding and sedative.

Practical Uses

Methods of Use: skin oil/lotion, aroma lamp, bath, inhalation, massage, mist spray

Skin Care with Vetiver

The astringent properties of vetiver is helpful for greasy/oily skin and scalp conditions; and the analgesic ant tonic properties of vetiver can be used in the topical relief of urticaria (an acute or chronic condition of the skin, usually caused by an allergic reaction, characterized by pale or reddened irregular, elevated patches and severe itching, stinging and burning; hives, nettle rash)

For Oily Skin/Scalp: Mix 2 drops vetiver, 2 drops clary sage, 3 drops sandalwood and 3 drops lavender in 20ml/4 tsp of a light carrier oil such as grapeseed and apply to affected areas.

For Urticaria: Mix 2 drops vetiver, 4 drops Roman chamomile, 4 drops peppermint in 20ml/4tsp carrier oil and apply to affected areas.

Circulation, Muscles & Joints

Vetiver can be added to massage blends or used in the bath to relieve arthritis, muscular aches and pains, rheumatism, sprains and muscle stiffness.

To relieve/soothe a tired, achy body: Mix 2 drops vetiver, 2 drops black pepper, 2 drops rosemary and 4 drops sweet marjoram in 20ml/4 tsp carrier oil and massage into aching muscles.

Digestive System

Vetiver is carminative (settles the digestive system) and is a general tonic for the digestive system; it is particularly helpful for liver congestion, and can be added to a bath or general massage blend to balance pancreas secretion insufficiency.

For Liver Congestion: Mix 4 drops vetiver and 4 drops grapefruit in 20ml/4tsp carrier oil and rub into the abdomen using clockwise, circular strokes.

Nervous System

Vetiver has a woody, earthy aroma and a subtle, deeply relaxing effect - valuable in massage and baths for anybody experiencing stress. The grounding scent of vetiver calms nervousness and promotes a restful sleep; useful for conditions of debility, depression, insomnia and nervous tension.

Relaxation Blend: Mix: 2 drops vetiver, 2 drops jasmine, 2 drops bergamot 4 drops sandalwood and use in a bath, or add to 20ml/4tsp carrier oil and use in a massage.

Vetiver in Aromatherapy

Botanical Name: Vetiveria zizanoides

Note: Base

Parts Used: roots and rootlets

Source: steam distillation of the roots and rootlets - washed, chopped, dried and soaked. Vetiver is a small, tufted perennial, scented grass native to south India, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. The oil is mainly produced in Java, Haiti and Reunion; some is distilled in Europe and the USA.

Description and Odor Effect: a dark-brown, olive or amber viscous oil with a deep, smoky, earthy-woody odor and a sweet persistent undertone. The color and scent can vary according to the source.

Blends well with: clary sage, jasmine, lavender, oakmoss, patchouli, rose, sandalwood, violet, ylang ylang

Applications: application, aroma lamp, bath, inhaler, lightbulb ring, massage, mist spray

Therapeutic Properties: abortifacient, analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antistress, aphrodisiac, astringent, calmative, cardiotonic, carminative, detoxifier, diaphoretic, diuretic, emetic, emmenagogue, insect repellent, insecticide, nervine, parasiticide, revitalizing, rubefacient, sedative, stimulant (immune system), stomachic, tonic, vermifuge

Safety Data: Non-toxic, non-irritant, non-sensitizing; safe for all skin types. Avoid during pregnancy. Keep out of reach of children. If nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use.

Caution: Avoid during pregnancy. The roots yield a small amount of oil, and as such, it is often adulterated with synthetics.

Vetiver – Quick Reference

Skin: acne, cuts, oily skin, wounds

Circulation, Muscles & Joints: arthritis, muscular aches and pains, rheumatism, sprains, stiffness

Digestive: liver congestion, pancreas secretion insufficiency

Nervous: debility, depression, insomnia, nervous tension

Keyword: Harmonising

Did you know ... In India and Sri Lanka the essence is known as 'the oil of tranquility'

Vetiver Harmony

Add these essential oils to 20 ml / 4 teaspoons carrier oil

To penetrate the muscles and ease physical tension:

• 2 drops Vetiver
• 4 drops Cardamom
• 4 drops Sweet Orange