- Natural Product Research Formerly Natural Product Letters Volume 29, (2015). Anxiety-like behaviour and c-fos expression in rats that inhaled vetiver essential oil. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14786419.2014.992342
- Pauline Burger. Vetiver Essential Oil in Cosmetics: What Is New? https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6320/4/2/41
- Betty C. R. Zhu. Journal of Chemical Ecology. (2001). Evaluation of Vetiver Oil and Seven Insect-Active Essential Oils Against the Formosan Subterranean Termite https://link.springer.com/article/10.1023/A:1010410325174
- Nat Prod Res. (2015). Anxiety-like behaviour and c-fos expression in rats that inhaled vetiver essential oil https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25553641/
Vetiver Essential Oil Uses for Skin,
Hair, and Aromatherapy
Overview Of Vetiver Oil
A scent that is earthy and smoky, vetiver essential oil is a grounding aroma highly regarded in perfumery. Among aromatherapy enthusiasts, it is known to help calm and refocus the mind. Read on to find out how you can get the most from this essential oil.
What Is Vetiver Essential Oil?
Vetiver essential oil is extracted from the vetiver plant, also known as vetiveria zizanioides. Native to India, vetiver comes from the same family of other grasses like lemongrass and citronella. A fragrant scent with distinct earthy notes, it is found in many perfumes today, including the famous Chanel No. 5.
Vetiver is a perennial grass native to India and called khus in northern parts of India. It is also cultivated in tropical regions of Haiti and Indonesia.
Since ancient times, the vetiver plant in its entirety was used to make various products like perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics. In India, vetiver grass was also often sewn together to construct awnings, roofs, rugs, baskets, blinds, animal fodder, bedding, and other necessities for the home, showing that it is more than just a scented plant.
An essential oil harvested by the steam distillation of vetiver roots, this extraction method is used to ensure the potency of the extracted essence of the plant and makes the plant's calming scent and benefits shine through.
If you are interested in a comprehensive report on vetiver, its uses, benefits, chemical composition, and extraction process, you will find it here.
|
Name |
Vetiver Essential Oil |
|
Botanical Name |
Lavandula angustifolia |
|
Native to |
Mediterranean regions |
|
Properties |
Analgesic, antidepressant, nervine, sedative, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory |
|
Main ingredients |
Linalool, eucalyptol, linalyl acetate, terpineol, limonene, ocimene, lavandulol, camphene |
|
Aroma |
Sweet, floral and herbal |
|
Blends well with |
Bergamot, tea tree, vetiver, patchouli, jasmine,ylang ylang, cypress, eucalyptus, oakmoss, marjoram, peppermint, geranium, black pepper, chamomile, lemongrass, pine and cypress essential oils |
|
Category |
Floral |
|
Substitute |
Vanilla, rose, sweet marjoram or sandalwood essential oil |
12 Benefits and Uses of Vetiver Oil
Vetiver Essential Oil Benefits
Wanna get a hang of this versatile oil’s benefits? The health benefits of vetiver oil are numerous. It can be used for hair care, skincare and for treating wounds and preventing neurological diseases. Here’s a rough guide to get you started in the wonderful wow-factors of vetiver essential oil.
1
It Refreshes Tired Minds
An earthy scent that is sharp yet grounding, vetiver oil can help awaken the mind and sharpen your focus. Diffusing it around working spaces can help keep the mind alert and improve memory during long workdays.
It is a botanical marvel that can be blended with aromatic patchouli and sandalwood in an aromatherapy diffuser for rejuvenated mind. The essential oil has an earthy aroma and this oil is known to have a grounding effect.
In 2015 Natural Product Research published a study on the anxiolytic properties of vetiver essential oil. The study conducted on lab mice found that vetiver has an effect on neural stimulation, however, it emphasized the need for more research. (1)
2
It Aids Clearer Breathing
Exuding a scent that helps clear nasal blockage, vetiver can help ease breathing difficulty. Diffusing it around living spaces can help purify the air and keep the sinuses clear for peace of mind and body.
3
It Clears Respiratory Congestion
Soothing for congestion, vetiver oil is a decongestant that helps the respiratory system function better. Applying it topically on the chest can help clear away congestion and keep you comfortable throughout the day.
4
Lowers Inflammation
Pure vetiver essential oil has a calming and grounding effect that lowers inflammation in the body. Inflammations in the nervous system and circulatory system are treated with the inhalation of vetiver’s fragrance. 2 drops of vetiver oil is used to soothe the skin after sunburn; it is also applied on the body prevent dehydration. Vetiver is native to the hot and humid conditions of South Asia and people use the roots of the plant and its oil to get relief from the arid climate. Here, vetiver oil was used as traditional medicine for its many health benefits.
5
Fade Scars
Vetiver oil when applied topically stimulates the growth of new cells and removes dead cells. It also fades the discoloration of the skin and brings uniformity in look. Women use this oil post-childbirth to remove stretch marks.
It is also used in cosmetics because of its proven antimicrobial properties. Published in Medicines 2017, vetiver oil was found to be a suitable antimicrobial agent for use in cosmetics. (2)
6
Libido Booster
The aroma of vetiver has a sensual effect on the psyche. Most sexual disorders are psychological. Disorders including erectile dysfunction, loss of libido and frigidity can be resolved with vetiver.
7
Body Tonic
A body tonic energizes the body and improves the functionality of different systems in the body including respiratory, cardiovascular, excretory and circulatory. Applying vetiver on the body or inhaling its aroma rejuvenates the body systems. Do not confuse tonic as something to be consumed or ingested.
Apply vetiver oil mixed with coconut oil or jojoba oil and rub it into the body via massage. The compounds of the oil are absorbed and subsequently start its work. By acting as a tonic, it improves the immune system of the body, hence preventing diseases.
Although vetiver has several therapeutic properties, but it is not for ingestion or it should not be taken internally unless under the supervision of a medical doctor who is also qualified in clinical aromatherapy.
8
Treats Wounds Faster
The analgesic and cicatrizant properties of vetiver essential oil speed up the wound healing process.
9
Improves Cognitive Abilities
Vetiver is good for nerve health. Besides maintaining nerve health it also heals any damage caused to the nerves over the years. This helps in keeping nervous or neurotic disorders at bay.
10
Welcomes Sleep
Vetiver when inhaled in calm surroundings at bedtime induces sleep. Its sedative effect soothes emotional outbursts and nervous annoyance and welcomes sleep. For sound sleep, diffuse the aroma of vetiver in the bedroom or close to the bedroom.
A few healthy practices including switching off mobile phones an hour before bedtime and eating the right food at the right time also supplements the efforts of vetiver in inducing sleep. 10 drops of pure vetiver oil is blended with palmarosa and its calming aroma ensures a restful state.
Vetiver Essential Oil For Hair
11. It Promotes A Healthy Scalp
For luscious hair, you need fertile ground, and vetiver oil can help with just that. Applying it onto the scalp can help relieve inflammation that is caused by dandruff, psoriasis and eczema, thereby boosting scalp and hair health.
Vetiver oil must become an integral part of one’s hair care routine to see its effects.
12. It Strengthens Hair Strands
Vetiver oil promotes better hair growth by strengthening your hair strands. Applying it to the hair can help improve the lifespan of hair, thereby allowing the hair to grow and appear fuller. Vetiver oil is applied with carrier oil, preferably at night.
It is then left overnight before washing it off with rose water. Vetiver oil also has active ingredients with rich nutrients that rejuvenates hair growth and revitalizes dull hair. Skin disorders of the scalp such as psoriasis of the scalp can be treated or reduced with the use of vetiver oil.
12. A Natural Insect Repellant
Vetiver oil has been used to drive out flies and bugs from the houses since a long time. It is sprayed in the nooks and corners of the house to prevent insects from getting in. To ascertain the veracity of vetiver’s insect repellant properties a study was conducted to find its effectiveness against Formosan subterranean termite. It found that vetiver was effective against subterranean termites and it was environmentally safe. The study was published in 2001in the Journal of Chemical Ecology. (3)
How To Use Vetiver Oil
There is a multitude of ways to harness and experience the many benefits of vetiver oil. Some experience it through direct inhalation, while others use it with a skin-friendly carrier oil or through diffusion. Here’s how you can get the most out of this earthy and grounding natural extract.
Vetiver Essential Oil To Repel Ticks
An essential oil that is safe for humans but extremely lethal to ticks, vetiver can help protect the skin from tick bites that can cause Lyme disease. Here’s how you can protect yourself and loved ones from ticks before you go out and enjoy the great outdoors.
Ingredients:
- 12 Drops Of Vetiver Oil
- 12 Drops Of Clove Bud
- 12 Drops Of Ylang Ylang
- 12 Drops Of Sweet Orange
- 2 Oz Jojoba Carrier Oil
- 2 Oz Spray Bottle
Instructions:
- Add the essential oils directly to the spray bottle.
- Fill the remaining 2oz spray bottle with jojoba carrier oil. Shake well.
- Spray periodically on exposed skin to repel ticks.
Vetiver Essential Oil For Anxiety
With a super-soothing scent, vetiver essential oil can help calm the mind and reduce anxiety during long workdays. According to a study conducted in 2015, it is found that vetiver oil has anti-anxiety properties similar to the drug diazepam. Here’s a vetiver oil blend that can keep you calm and productive.(4)
Mind Soothing Blend
Ingredients
- 3 Drops Of Lavender
- 2 Drops Of Rosemary
- 1 Drop Of Frankincense
- 1 Drop Of Vetiver
Add this into a diffuser, and voila, you’ll stay calm and composed all day long.
Vetiver Essential Oil To Improve Breathing Patterns
A scent that is calming and soothing for the body, vetiver essential oil also helps ease breathing difficulty. Diffusing it into the air or applying it to the body can decongest the airways and nasal canals from phlegm and mucus. Here’s how you can make a vetiver oil diffuser blend for easier breathing.
Ingredients:
- 3 Drops Of Vetiver
- 5 Drops Of Lavandin
- 2 Drops Of Ylang Ylang
Simply add the oils above into a diffuser or vaporizer filled with water to experience clearer airways and congestion-free days
Vetiver Oil Blend recipe for Immunity Boosting
Vetiver is known to boost the immunity of the body and when this oil is blended with other concentrated oils for aromatherapy its healthy effects are multiplied. Here’ how you can boost the body’s disease fighting capability by diffusing the oil’s blend.
Ingredients:
- 4 Drops of Vetiver
- 4 Drops of Cedarwood
- 2 Drops of Sweet Orange
- 2 Drops of Lavender
Vetiver Essential Oil For Aromatherapy
Though it is perfectly normal to inhale the scent of vetiver oil directly from the bottle, diffusing it into the air via a vaporizer/diffuser is a more effective way to calm and relax atmospheres. Here’s how you can use vetiver essential oil with a diffuser.
- Set it up according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Place it at least 2-feet above the ground to get the full benefits.
- Fill the tank with filtered water to reduce mineral buildup and to prolong the life of your diffuser.
- Don’t skimp on the oil! Remember, adding more oil makes the scent last longer. Most people add about 3 to 15 drops per 100ml of water.
- Experiment and mix & match essential oils to tailor your own unique blend of scent.
- Take time to explore your own diffuser and find a spray setting that suits your fancy.
Vetiver Injury Healing Oil
There are a lot of different recipes for injury healing oil out there. This is our take on the perfect DIY recipe for injury healing oil.
Ingredients:
- 4 Drops of Vetiver oil
- 3 Drops of Lavender oil
- 2 Drops of Bergamot oil
- 1 oz of carrier oil (we like sweet almond oil)
Instructions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a dark glass bottle.
2. Store in a cool, dark place until ready to use.
3. To use, apply a small amount to the affected area and massage in gently.
4. Repeat as needed until the injury has healed completely.
Safety When Using Vetiver Oil
Essential oils are great for self-care routines. However, we should also take care and follow caution when using them to keep ourselves and loved ones safe from its side effects. Generally essential oils are safe, but a few guidelines must be followed to avoid any adverse effects. Also, the oils are different, made up of different compounds. Some people may be allergic to certain compounds while others may be allergic to others. Concentrated oil must be bought after careful deliberation. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.
- Read the label and instructions to make sure you’re using the oil correctly.
- While buying essential oils be wary of the terms fragrance oil, perfume oil and natural identical oil.
- The term pure essential oil can be widely seen on the bottles. These maybe made from substandard sources.
- Ensure that you are not allergic to any ingredients or compounds in the oil.
- Make sure to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil for safe application.
- Do not add too much of the oil in the diffuser.
- Avoid using essential oils of sensitive areas like the eyes and nose.
- Don’t apply it on broken skin either unless it’s mentioned on the bottle or label.
- Keep it out of reach of kids and fur kids.
- Do not diffuse the oil near kids and pets. Consult a doctor before doing so.
- Some oils may make you sensitive to sun damage, so be sure to load up on SPF.
- Check the label to see if the oil is photo-toxic.
- Always do a small patch test before topical application.
- If aromatherapy is performed directly from the bottle, make sure that the oil does not touch the skin.
- The common unwanted effects caused by essential oils up on topical application are rashes, redness and swelling.
- If you show signs of irritation, stop use and consult a health professional.
Recommended Vetiver Essential Oil Products
Want to add vetiver essential oil into your everyday routine? There is no better place to purchase your vetiver oil than here. Simply follow the links below and add these oils to your checkout cart today.
