Of all of the essential oils, few capture the aromatic complexity of the earth's botanical bounty as completely as vetiver grass. Organically grown in Haiti, this oil is used for therapeutic, meditative and perfuming purposes. Its sweet, rooty, deeply relaxing aroma, which is reminiscent of woods and marshlands, is grounding, cooling and nourishing.
Used for regenerating damaged topsoils and for preventing erosion, vetiver is easily propogated. The rich, sensuous, earthy oil of vetiver is produced by harvesting and distilling the roots of the plant. Although it may be the world's most commonly used perfume fixative—meaning it is an effective base note that holds lighter top notes to the skin—vetiver is in itself an extremely healing oil to the body and the mind. Used in liniments and massage oils, vetiver oil promotes comfort and assists the joints. It is also valued as a component in cosmetic preparations for its natural affinity for the skin and its ability to enhance skin health and radiance. Through its strengthening, tonic, grounding and regenerating effects, it supports and stabilizes the nervous system, making it a good choice for soothing and comforting body and mind. Vetiver promotes emotional equilibrium, purifies the mind and enhances concentration. It also has a strong power of attraction and enhances sensual and romantic moods. Deeply calming, balancing and restorative, vetiver promotes rejuvenation on all levels and aids relaxation. Vetiver is an excellent choice to keep on your nightside table for promoting deep and revitalizing sleep.
As one of the most biochemically complex of all essential oils, vetiver contains at least 150 identified aromatic compounds, and many more unidentified. Because its chemical properties are a function of the soil it is grown in, each batch of vetiver oil will have fragrance variations that are unique and subtle.
Aromatic Profile and Blending of Vetiver Essential Oil
Perfumery Note: Base
Odor: Earthy, musty, balsamic, root-like
Blends Well With: Ylang-ylang, sandalwood, clary sage, patchouli, jatamansi, angelica and lavender
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Massage or Perfume Oil: The deliciously rich, sensuous and earthy aroma of vetiver is one of nature’s most attractive perfumes. Being a very strong base note, vetiver can easily overtake other oils. For perfumery fixative purposes, when combining oils it is recommended to limit vetiver to 5% of the total essential oil content. This oil is also extremely tenacious; one drop of vetiver can linger on the skin for many days.
Other Ways To Use Vetiver Essential Oil
Though vetiver can be diffused, its syrupy, sticky consistency can cause clogging in some diffusers. Vetiver can, however, be premixed with thinner oils and then diffused. If you are using a nebulizing diffuser you will most likely not encounter any problems diffusing this amazing oil.
Relaxing Body, Mind, and Spirit: Mix 3 drops vetiver oil, 6 drops roman chamomile oil and 6 drops bergamot oil to your favorite massage oil. Alternately, you may leave our the massage oil and add the mixture directly to your diffuser.
Rest and Rejuvenation Blend: 8 drops vetiver oil, 8 drops clary sage oil and 8 drops lavender in 15 mL of jojoba or your favorite body oil.
To sooth and support hot, red or dry skin, add a drop of vetiver oil to your favorite chemical-free, unscented face or body cream or oil.
To reduce the heated effects of too much sun, add two drops of vetiver oil to tepid bath water and soak, or apply (diluted) onto skin for a cooling effect.
Safety Considerations for Vetiver Essential Oil
Non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing. Use with caution during pregnancy (small amounts, diluted). Do not take vetiver essential oil internally.
