Tall and tufted vetiver grass has long, narrow aromatic leaves and straight stems. This perennial member of the Poaceae family is related to citronella and lemongrass, and grows up to six feet tall. Washed and dried vetiver roots are steam-distilled to produce an amber or dark brown oil with a viscous texture. It smells smoky and woody, earthy and musty, like a damp forest after a heavy rain. It also has sweet and spicy undertones. About 200 pounds of vetiver roots yield about one pound of oil. The older the root, the better the oil; the oil itself also improves with age.
Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides, Vetiveria odorata or Andropogon muricatus) is native to
Beauty Benefits
Vetiver oil balances the activity of the sebaceous glands, or oil glands, and helps to normalize oily skin and clear acne. It replenishes moisture in dry and dehydrated skin and has a rejuvenating effect on mature skin. It helps heal cuts and wounds, and soothes irritated and inflamd skin. When used regularly during pregnancy, vetiver oil reportedly prevents stretch marks. It also has natural deodorizing properties.
Emotional Effects
Vetiver oil strengthens the central nervous system. It is emotionally calming and is helpful in overcoming depression, insomnia and nervousness. Vetiver oil reduces anxiety, stress and tension. It settles nerves and can revive a person who is suffering from emotional exhaustion. Vetiver oil restores balance and harmony, brings thoughts and actions into focus and helps to stabilize energy. It normalizes either extreme sensitivity or insensitivity. Some people use vetiver oil as an aphrodisiac.
Reprinted from Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty by Roberta Wilson with permission of Avery Books, a member of Penguin Putnam Inc. Copyright © 1995 by Roberta Wilson.
source from http://beauty.ivillage.com
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