Vetiver
Vetivaria Zizanioides
Vetiver Oil has a musky aroma which can be found in mens and women's perfumes, as well as high end beauty products. Not only can it create a beautiful perfume on its own, but it promotes restful sleep and can help with exhaustion and stress.
History of Vetiver Oil
Vetiver Oil (also called khus oil) is made from the vetiver plant, which is native to India. It belongs to the same family as other grasses such as lemongrass and citronella, which are also popular essential oils. It has a beautifully tangy yet earthy scent, and its fragrance has been widely used today in perfumery. The history of Vetiver Oil is vast; originally named the “Oil of Tranquility” in Sri Lanka and India, the entire vetiver plant was used across perfumery, cosmetics, medications, food and drink. In the Middle Ages, Vetiver Oil rose in popularity, used in perfume predominantly for men. The Ancient Chinese used the oil on the skin to replenish its moisture, as well as using it in aromatherapy and other alternative practices to help with psychological issues and to calm the mind - in fact, Vetiver Oil was used as a medication and was regularly prescribed during ancient periods.
Today, Vetiver Oil is commonly found in perfumes as well as high end candles, soaps and cosmetics - giving them a luxurious scent. It’s an oil which is considered one of the most expensive, but this is due to how much vetiver needs to be used to yield only a very small portion of the oil. Overall it’s a popular oil which has incredible versatility and over the centuries has won over more and more people with its tantalizing scent and highly beneficial qualities.
So, what does the future look like for Vetiver Oil?
The future looks incredibly bright for Vetiver Oil! Due to its vast history, pleasant scent and commercialisation - particularly in the beauty industry, we don’t see Vetiver Oil going away any time soon. You’ll find it in a lot of high end perfumes and brands like Creed and Chanel (it smells amazing), and this mighty bottle of essential oil is perfect when used in aromatherapy. Not only does it smell unbelievable, but it also works wonders on its own or blended with other oils on the market. Overall, it’s an oil that we love - and we would go as far as saying that if you are into luxurious scents, this is definitely one for your collection. A little goes a long way with this oil, and we can’t wait to see it flourish even more in the future.
Extracting Vetiver Oil
Like most essential oils on the market, Vetiver Oil is made using a process called steam distillation. The whole plant (inclusive of its roots) is put into a steam distiller, where steam will gently lift the oil from the plant. It will then sit on top of the condensed water after it has cooled at the end of the process. The oil can then be skimmed off the top and voila - you have Vetiver Oil! It’s a common method as it allows for the highest yield of essential oil without damaging the end product’s quality.
Can I make Vetiver Oil at home?
Technically, yes, however you’d need the correct growing conditions for the plant to thrive. Providing you have excellent conditions and access to a steam distiller, you could make the oil at home. Overall, it’s an oil which we would recommend that you’d probably have better luck buying unless you lived in tropical climates, as the oil is widely accessible and although it’s expensive, you may end up spending more money making the oil yourself rather than purchasing it from a trusted supplier. What you can do to extend the usage of your Vetiver Oil is mixing a few drops into Jojoba oil and storing in smaller bottles - however this’ll dilute the quality of the oil so only do this if you are happy for the intensity of the oil to change due to it being in a carrier oil.
What do you think of Vetiver Oil? Is it an essential in your collection? Have you made it before? We love to hear from you - so feel free to share your stories with us today!
Can I make Vetiver Oil at home?
Technically, yes, however you’d need the correct growing conditions for the plant to thrive. Providing you have excellent conditions and access to a steam distiller, you could make the oil at home. Overall, it’s an oil which we would recommend that you’d probably have better luck buying. The oil is widely accessible and although it’s expensive, you may end up spending more money making the oil yourself rather than purchasing it from a trusted supplier. What you can do to extend the usage of your Vetiver Oil is mixing a few drops into Jojoba oil and storing in smaller bottles - however this will dilute the quality of the oil and reduce the intensity of the oil's benefits.
What do you think of Vetiver Oil? Is it an essential in your collection? Have you made it before? We love to hear from you - so feel free to share your stories with us today!
Vetiver Oil Varieties
Vetiver Oil Varieties
It isn’t clear just how many varieties of vetiver there are, and this also goes for the variations of the essential oil itself. Based on our research, it looks as though the varieties of Vetiver Oil are categorised based on the country whereby it came from, for example Chinese Vetiver or Haitan Vetiver. It isn’t clear whether the composition makes particular variations of the oil better than the other, which indicates that it is most likely down to personal preference (and quality of the oil) which will determine which geographical variation triumphs.
So, which variety of Vetiver Oil should I use?
As mentioned, it isn’t completely clear which variation is the “best” out there in terms of its benefits, and with a lot of essential oils it’s down to personal preference as well as how the oil is harvested. What we recommend is looking for an oil which is 100% essential or “absolute”, and check that it is organic and ethically sourced - as all of this will ultimately impact the quality of the oil overall. When we get more information on the variations of the oil (and which one is “better” than the other) we will update this page straight away, but for now - make sure you look for the best quality and share your thoughts with us, as we are always learning and growing our knowledge base for you all.
It isn’t clear just how many varieties of vetiver there are, and this also goes for the variations of the essential oil itself. Based on our research, it looks as though the varieties of Vetiver Oil are categorised based on the country whereby it came from, for example Chinese Vetiver or Haitan Vetiver.
It isn’t clear whether the composition makes particular variations of the oil better than the other, which indicates that it is most likely down to personal preference (and quality of the oil) which will determine which geographical variation triumphs.
So, which variety of Vetiver Oil should I use?
As mentioned, it isn’t completely clear which variation is the “best” out there in terms of its benefits, and with a lot of essential oils it’s down to personal preference as well as how the oil is harvested. What we recommend is looking for an oil which is 100% essential or “absolute”, and check that it is organic and ethically sourced - as all of this will ultimately impact the quality of the oil overall. When we get more information on the variations of the oil (and which one is “better” than the other) we will update this page straight away, but for now - make sure you look for the best quality and share your thoughts with us, as we are always learning and growing our knowledge base for you all.
Benefits of Vetiver Oil
Vetiver Oil (also called khus oil) is made from the vetiver plant, which is native to India. It has a beautifully refreshing scent, which is widely used today in perfumery. It has been used for thousands of years across medicine, aromatherapy and beauty practices - from the Ancient Chinese all the way to high end perfume brands using vetiver in their fragrances. Overall, it’s a widely popular and beautifully smelling essential oil with a number of beneficial properties.
So, what are the benefits of Vetiver Oil?
Anti-anxiety
Either used topically or in aromatherapy, Vetiver Oil is a powerful anti-anxiety remedy which can help with other symptoms associated with stress, depression and generalised feelings of anxiety. Either apply topically and massage into the skin or use in an electric diffuser for maximum results. You can also use it with other anxi-anxiety essential oils to create powerful blends.
Anti-inflammatory
When used topically, Vetiver Oil is an excellent anti-inflammatory which can be used on aching joints and muscles to relieve pain, as well as reducing swelling and redness. However, please do not put on cracked or broken skin as this will definitely cause irritation.
Immunity boosting
Vetiver Oil is a natural immune system booster, and when inhaled can help you feel clear and calm - especially if you are struggling with a cold or feeling sick. You can either massage into the skin or inhale it directly for optimum results.
Detoxifying
Vetiver Oil is packed full of antioxidants, great for topical application to rid the skin’s surface from congestion and boost circulation, or inhale to help clear your respiratory system, leaving you feeling fresh.
Hydrating
Integrating Vetiver Oil into your skincare regime can keep your complexion plump and hydrated. Make sure to always use a carrier oil for maximum results (we recommend Jojoba Oil). You can also mix with other essential oils such as jasmine or rose for a gorgeous blend which will tackle dry and sensitive skin, leaving it looking clean, fresh and hydrated!
Please note that the benefits of Vetiver Oil will vary from person to person, and what may work for you - may not work for others. If you’re looking to use Vetiver Oil or other essential oils as an alternative to a prescribed medicine (topical or internal) please consult with your doctor before use. The same applies if you’re taking any medication for skincare issues, always consult with a dermatologist before integrating essential oils into your regime.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, again, consult with your doctor before using essential oils as they can be harmful if not used correctly. If you have young children abstain from using essential oils as they can be damaging to children and in some cases, fatal. If you are unsure where to start with essential oils, speak to a licensed aromatherapist who can guide you on how to get the most out of them.
Uses of Vetiver Oil
Vetiver Oil is a grassy, refreshing essential oil which is native to India. It is part of the same family as lemongrass and citronella, and the fragrance has been widely used in aromatherapy and perfumery over the years. Its uses date back thousands of years. Vetiver Oil started to rise in commercial popularity in the Middle Ages, as it was predominantly used as a perfume for men; prior to this, the Ancient Chinese and Indian’s used Vetiver Oil for aromatherapy, perfumery as well as a medication. Today, it’s a widely popular essential oil and is used by a number of high end perfume brands due to its ability to layer with a number of other fragrances on the market. One of the most well-known high end perfume brands is Creed. They have used Vetiver in a number of their perfumes, which smell gorgeous.
So, what can I use Vetiver Oil for?
Aromatherapy
Similar to topical application, when used in aromatherapy, Vetiver Oil works incredibly well to dispel feelings of stress and anxiety, and can work well on its own to soothe the mind, leaving you feeling calm. It works with other calming essential oils such as Lavender Oil to create a soothing blend - perfect if you are struggling with getting to sleep!
Massage
In massage, Vetiver Oil is particularly popular when dealing with muscle and joint pain. In addition to its pain relieving qualities, you can use Vetiver Oil as a massage oil purely for the scent, too. It’s refreshing yet earthy aroma makes it popularly used in massage, whether for relaxation or for ‘medicinal’ purposes.
Perfume
Vetiver Oil is a common component in a lot of well-known perfumes, due to its grassy and refreshing scent. You can either use the oil on its own or blended with other essential oils to make your own perfumes which will last all day long.
Skincare
Integrating Vetiver Oil into your skincare regime can help to boost your complexion, tone your skin and smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.
Medicine
When used topically, Vetiver Oil can help to dispel feelings of stress and anxiety, as well as soothing aching muscles and joints. It can also work well on headaches and fatigue caused by feeling under the weather. If you're looking to use alternative therapies such as essential oils for medication, please consult with a doctor before use.
Blends well with
Here at Essentially Yours we are committed to sharing our best tips, tricks and knowledge with you, enabling you to get the most out of your essential oil collection. Whether it’s understanding the benefits of an oil or finding out the history behind it - our website has all the information you’ll need. In this blog we’re going to talk about Vetiver Oil and what it blends well with. So, if you want to learn more - keep reading!
Jojoba Oil
This is an excellent blend for facial treatments, as Jojoba Oil is our favourite - particularly for those who suffer with acne-prone skin. Use this as a facial oil or part of your daily skincare regime - and thank us later.
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Coconut Oil
Creamy and fresh, we love this blend as the creaminess of the coconut and the freshness of vetiver makes a gorgeous and luxurious massage blend which can soothe tired muscles as well as inject the skin with moisture from the fattiness of the Coconut Oil.
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Lavender Oil
We love Lavender Oil due to its versatility and gorgeous scent. Mixed together this works beautifully to aid restful sleep, just put a few drops of each into an electric diffuser around 30 minutes before bedtime.
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Sandalwood Oil
Woody but refreshing, this again is an excellent blend for your electric diffuser, but it can also be put in soaps and candles. The scent is gorgeous and luxurious, and can take the edge off the tanginess of vetiver that some may not warm to.
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Patchouli Oil
If you’re looking for high end perfumes for a fraction of the price, just combine these two oils together (and a touch of jasmine too) and you have a luxurious perfume in seconds.
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Jasmine Oil
Complex and fragrant, this blend can work well across multiple areas: candles, electric diffusers, facial treatments, soaps and also as a perfume. Add a drop of rose into the mix for another beautiful homemade perfume which will last all evening - without the huge price tag that a high end perfume can bring.
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Lemon Oil
Tangy and refreshing, this is an uplifting blend which is great if you’re looking to inject some life and energy into your home office or before an early morning meeting. The zingy, complex scent boosts your mood and wakes you up better than a morning coffee. You can also add a drop of Bergamot Oil in there if you want another layer of fragrance!
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