If there is one oil that has stood the test of time to cool the mind in the hottest summers, it is vetiver essential oil. From the Maharajas of India to the Sheikhs in the Middle East, Vetiver or Khus has been cherished for its earthy aroma and a plethora of health benefits.
Vetiver essential Oil is derived from the roots of Vetiveria Zizanoides which grows mostly in India and Sri Lanka. Vetiver is also popularly known as Khus and its oil is mostly green on brown with a fresh, woody and earthy fragrance. The price of the oil varies drastically depending on the origin of the Vetiver or Khus roots. The oil extracted from North Indian produce is considered to be more aromatic and is also more expensive.
Vetiver oil is highly sought after for its aromatherapy benefits and versatile uses. Let’s have a closer look!
Vetiver Essential Oil Benefits
This earthy oil offers remarkable benefits for the mind and body. Some of those include:
Vetiver Oil calms the mind and induces relaxation
The lingering vetiver essential oil smell can instantly calm the mind and help with racing thoughts. Its earthy aroma is perfect for grounding and centring, making it suitable to use during meditation. Other aromatherapy benefits of vetiver oil include getting rid of fatigue and improving focus. You can diffuse a few drops of it during your yoga practice to have an improved centring experience.
Benefits of vetiver essential oil for skin
With natural active compounds like vetivone, vetiver essential oil has antibacterial properties and is beneficial for skin health. A study in 2017 highlighted its efficiency as a star cosmetic ingredient. The results showed that vetiver oil works particularly well for older and sensitive skin and also has detoxifying properties. The sebum-controlling properties of khus oil can control acne and inflammation. The same study also highlighted its uses for hydrating dull and dry skin.
To conclude, the list of Vetiver essential oil skincare benefits includes:
- Antibacterial
- Controls excess sebum
- Prevents acne breakout
- Hydrates the skin
- Reduces inflammation
- Antiseptic
- Heals wounds
- Rejuvenates the skin
Reduces muscle pain and tension
Massaging a diluted blend of vetiver oil with a suitable carrier oil like coconut can help reduce muscle and joint pain. It is mild analgesic and can be used as a natural alternative to chemical-based massage oils. If you are looking for a natural remedy to muscle soreness and cramps, you can give vetiver oil massage a try. Don’t forget to use a high-grade oil and do a patch test before you use it extensively.
Vetiver essential oil spiritual benefits
In various cultures, vetiver is considered to play a significant role in balancing chakras and aligning our energies. Vetiver essential oil is offered to deities in temples and is believed to bring good luck and fortune. According to Hindu culture, it is lord Ganesha’s favourite aroma oil and is used in all spiritual practices. Since the oil is derived from the roots of a spiritually potent plant, it is used particularly to connect to mother nature’s energy.
Vetiver essential oil for sleep and insomnia
A study conducted in 2016 found out that insomnia and sleep waking can be improved by inhaling natural vetiver essential oil. The study was conducted on rats but this paves the way for further development in this context. Vetiver oil’s aroma can affect the nervous system with the first sniff. Diffuse it at night to melt into a relaxing and deep sleep. You can also make a natural pillow mist out of it and use it whenever you find it difficult to fall asleep.
Best Ways To Use Vetiver Essential Oil
Aromatherapy spray
You can make an aromatherapy spray with just two simple ingredients using vetiver essential oil. Take a spray bottle and fill 80% of it with clean water. Then, add 2-10 drops of vetiver essential oil and shake it well. You can get your oil from any local aromatherapy store or you can buy essential oils wholesale from online suppliers like Aromachology Oils.
DIY roll-on perfume
Natural roll-on perfumes are quite easy to make and are a cost-effective alternative to expensive store-bought perfumes. In a roll-on bottle add 6-8 ml of grapeseed oil and 2-4 ml of vetiver essential oil. Shake well and apply on your pulse points for a lasting aromatic experience.
You can customize your perfume by adding other suitable oils. Vetiver essential oil blends well with other oils like rose, jasmine, sandalwood, etc.
Add it to a moisturizer
You can also take advantage of vetiver oil’s numerous skincare benefits by including it in your skincare regime. Simply add 1-2 drops to a suitable moisturizer and apply it on your face without rubbing too hard. Do a patch test on your elbow before you use it extensively on your skin. Stop using it immediately if you notice any irritation or redness. Consult a doctor if the condition persists.
Conclusion
Vetiver essential oil is mostly known for its aromatherapy benefits and applications in the perfumery and cosmetic industry. Its earthy aroma soothes the mind and is a great addition to masculine fragrances. While some studies have shown that it improves concentration and helps sleep better, more research is yet to be done. With the growing wellness and natural healing industry, it is quite easy to buy vetiver essential oil online as well as in aromatherapy stores.
FAQs
Is vetiver essential oil safe for cats?
Cats lack certain enzymes to process essential oils. Hence, vetiver essential oil is not safe for cats.
Is vetiver essential oil safe for dogs?
Yes, vetiver oil is safe to diffuse around dogs. However, it should not be used topically as they might lick it off from their skin.
What does vetiver do to the brain?
The natural compounds of vetiver oil like vetiverol, vetivone, and khusimol give it a woody scent which when inhaled calms and relaxes the brain.
What is vetiver essential oil used for?
Vetiver essential oil is used for aromatherapy, skincare, perfumes, colognes and room sprays. It is also a great addition to natural insect repellents.
Where to buy vetiver essential oil?
You can buy vetiver essential oil from your local aromatherapy store, craft supply store or a trusted online supplier like aromachologyoils.com