Vetiver Essential Oil

Vetiver essential oil is steam extracted from the root of a sterile, non-invasive, clumping grass called “Chrysopogon zizanioides” which originated in South India.  The word, “Tamil” means “hatcheted up” and is often used to describe the way the roots of the plant are collected.  The complex white root system, from which vetiver oil is extracted, is used in India and Sri Lanka for creating aromatic woven mats that are used to sleep on (vetiver’s relaxing properties promote sleep).  Although native to South India, Sri Lanka and Indonesia, vetiver is now cultivated in other areas.

Its consistency is thick, with a dark brown color; the aroma is warm, earthy, musty and masculine. It is considered safe, non-irritating and non-sensitizing and is often used as a base note in perfumes and aromatics.

Vetiver is belived to have antiseptic, aphrodisiac and sedative properties, to name a few.  Considered a “grounding oil”, it is thought to decrease feelings of irritability, anger and hysteria; it has been referred to as the ‘oil of tranquility’.  Physically, it is said to balance hormones, revitalize the body, relieve physical exhaustion and ease arthritis and muscular pain.

Below is a recipe that can be used as a cologne, aftershave, room spray, linen spray, etc.  Because the scent is masculine, it is likely to be preferred by males.  But there are no rules!  So if you’re a girl and you like it, there’s no reason you can’t share it with your boyfriend, husband or daddy!

1)  In a 2-oz spray bottle, combine 1/2 oz. of grain alcohol (or vodka) with the following essential oils:

1 drop Vetiver (a little goes a loooooong way!)
1 drop black pepper
2 drops sandalwood
3 drops tangerine

2)  Shake vigorously to emulsify the essential oils

3)  Add 1/2 oz of vegetable glycerin (optional) and top off with lavender water.  Shake well and let sit for 24 hours to blend.

PLEASE NOTE:  Since this recipe contains tangerine, which is a citrus oil, I recommend wearing sunscreen after spraying this on your face and body if you intend to be outdoors.  Citrus oils are photosensitive, and although the amount used in this recipe is miniscule AND safely diluted, I still advise sunscreen.

Enjoy in health!
barbara-ann