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Botanical Name
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Vetiveria zizanoides
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Part Used
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Root
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Extraction
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Steam Distilled
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Color
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Dark brown, olive, amber
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Viscosity
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Thick
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Perfume Note
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Base
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Aroma
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Soft, woody
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Therapeutic Action
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Antiseptic, antispasmodic, depurative, rubefacient,
nervous system sedative, stimulates production of red corpuscles, tonic,
vermifuge
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Uses
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Acne, cuts, oily skin, wounds, arthritis, rheumatism,
sprains, stiffness, depression, insomnia, nervous tension
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Constituents
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Sesquiterpenes, Sesquiterpenols, Sesquiterpenones,
Epizizanol / zizanol, bicyclo-vetivenol, khusinol, alpha-vetivone,
beta-vetivone, beta-vetivenene, cis-eudesma-6,11-diene, others
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Safety
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Toxic, irritant and sensitizing
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Blends with
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Patchouli, lavender, jasmine, sandalwood, rose, clary
sage, mimosa, ylang ylang.
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Information compiled from:
[Julia Lawless, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils (Boston, MA:
Element Books, 1999)]
[Robert Tisserand, Essential Oil Safety (United Kingdom: Churchill
Livingstone, 1999)]
[David G. Williams, The Chemistry of Essential Oils (United Kingdom: Micelle
Press, 1997)]
General Safety Guidelines:
-Never use essential oils undiluted on the skin.
-Do not use essential oils on or near the eyes.
-Essential oils should not be taken internally.
-To check for allergic reactions or skin sensitization do a skin patch test
before using a new oil. Place a small amount of the oil (diluted) on the
inside of the forearm. If redness, itching, burning, or blistering occurs
within 24 hrs. discontinue use.
-Some oils (such as citrus, pine) become sensitizing as they age. A good rule
of thumb is to avoid using on the skin after about 6 months.
-If you have health conditions such as asthma, epilepsy, cancer, high blood
pressure, etc. or are pregnant check the contraindications/cautions of the
oils before use.
-Always use the smallest amount of oil that will do the job.
-Do not let children use essential oils without proper supervision.
-Essential oils are flammable. Keep away from fire and ignition sources.
-When in doubt consult with a qualified aromatherapist on the proper use of
essential oils.
-Always remember that essential oils should never replace proper medical
care. If you are under medical supervision consult with your practitioner
before use.
-These safety guidelines are not to be considered complete and all-inclusive.
When in doubt, consult your physician and/or a qualified aromatherapist.
Disclaimer Notice: This information is provided for educational
purposes only. No claim is made to the accuracy of these statements nor is
the information to be considered all inclusive of the properties of the
respective essential oils. These statements have not been evaluated by the
Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose,
treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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