About Vetiver Essential Oil
An ancient oil, called the Oil of Tranquility in India and Sri Lanka, vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides) essential oil is distilled from the rootlets of a grass that is cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates. It has been used since ancient times to repel insects and has been used as a perfumery ingredient for almost as long. Aromatic mats can be woven from the grasses and used to cover floors or windows. The oil should be a dark brown or amber and quite viscous. I always have a few drops left clinging to my droppers when I use it in blending. It is described as smoky, earthy, woody, peppery, spicy, warm and sweet. To me it is all of these and in certain blends I find it adds a little bit of liquid sunshine. I generally use Haitian vetiver which tends to be lighter than others but I also have a lovely vetiver that was co-distilled with mitti (soil from India). In aromatherapy, vetiver is especially good for skin problems such as acne and oily skin, for cuts and wounds. It may also be used as a rub for arthritis and muscular aches. It is especially good for the psyche because it is deeply relaxing and grounding - for use during stressful times.
Vetiver finds its way into many of my perfumes and seems a little different each time. In C'inn it lends itself to a warm, spicy dryout, in Elise it keeps the cardamom going for quite a while. In Alison and Tranquility it has a subtle presence that accents the other notes. I'm not sure how to describe Sarah - the vetiver and clary sage absolute do something special at the end!