Like many herbs in our exclusive formula, Vetiver is another powerful ancient remedy used in Ayurveda. More popularly known as Khus Khus, this aromatic grass is a natural resource with excellent applications for our well-being. This medicinal herb is traditionally used in medicine and perfumery, but because it is a multifunctional and renewable bio-resource, it is receiving more attention in the textile industry. 

The History of Vetiver

In Ayurvedic medicine, vetiver oil has been utilized for thousands of years to treat imbalances and cure various health disorders such as fevers, muscular aches, arthritis pain, and headaches. This oil is known for its therapeutic and cleansing properties, which can heal a person from within.

The alluring scent of vetiver oil has captivated people throughout history. It is intriguing to note that vetiver essential oil was traditionally used to rub brides with it to sanctify them before marriage. With its earthy and woody aroma, this essential oil is a popular ingredient in the perfume industry, adding a hint of masculinity to fragrances.

The vetiver grass has been utilized for many centuries to create various household items such as roof thatches, baskets, curtains, and rugs. In India, the roots of vetiver are dried and then interwoven into window curtains. These curtains help to cool down the fresh air that enters from the windows, making the rooms fresh and breezy during the hot summer months. On occasion, the curtains are dampened with water to generate a refreshing and aromatic breeze as hot air passes through them.

Vetiver is also used as an effective mulch that is often utilized for weed control in coffee, cocoa, and tea plantations. This method works by creating a thick mat that acts as a barrier to inhibit weed growth. In addition, the hairy texture of vetiver leaves serves as a pest repellant. When larvae land on the leaves, they become immobilized and eventually fall to the ground where they eventually die.

Vetiver Uses

In Ayurveda, Vetiver's root and its essential oil are used to alleviate thirst, heatstroke, fevers, and headaches. In addition, the essential oil can be applied to the skin to relieve joint and skin inflammatory disorders and may be used for rheumatoid arthritis and eczema.

In aromatherapy, Vetiver essential oil relieves stress, anxiety, nervousness, and tension. Rubbing a few drops of this essential oil on your feet before bed calms the mind and assists with sleep for people with insomnia.

Textile Application

Its multifunctional value makes it an ideal herb to work with when formulating Bennd's Ayurvedic textiles. The research article Optimization of Vetiver Root Extract for Textile Finishing shows that when organic cotton fabric is treated with Vetiver, it possesses good antimicrobial activity against S. aureus and E. coli. In addition, its bioactive compounds serve as infection control and create a barrier material to keep foreign substances out. 

Much like the Harda herb, Vetiver's stress-relieving and grounding properties make it an exceptional addition to Bennd's proprietary formula, which can be found in every one of our textiles. 

Bennd Tip: Incorporate our Double Harda Ayurvedic Yoga Mat and Harda Ayurvedic Floor Pillow to amplify the grounding and calming effects of Vetiver.