All About Vetiver Oil: for Skin, Sleep, and Meditation

“Vetiver's deeply penetrating roots and thousands of tiny fibrous rootlets reach out to drink in the aromatic molecules from the surrounding soil, which in turn become the multi-layered perfume notes of its dark amber oil. Sweet and heavy, with rich undertones reminiscent of precious woods and marshlands, the oil has widely varied olfactory characteristics depending on the type of earth it grows in. Because of the diversity of compounds present in different soils, vetiver oil is one of the most biochemically complex of all essential oils. Ayurvedic medicine describes vetiver oil as cooling to pitta (anti-inflammatory), yet pacifying to vata (calming and comforting to the mind). A traditional method of using the root is to apply it as a paste, which cools the body. Used in massage oils, its relaxing effects spread through the skin and muscles into the deeper levels of the nervous system, helping to counteract nervousness, stress, and exhaustion. The relaxing fragrance of the roots stabilizes concentration and works as a rejuvenating tonic. Vetiver oil is used in cosmetic products for its skin-regenerating powers, which make it helpful for aging and stretch marks. It is an ingredient in liniments and a compassionately soothing remedy for enthusiastic yogis who strain their muscles and joints with excessive asana practice.”
— David Crow

SLEEP

The soothing magic of Vetiver’s aroma is a powerful sleep aid. Try 4 or 5 drops in your diffuser at bedtime, or try this sleep-inducing foot massage. 1 tbsp Carrier Oil 6 drops Vetiver, Ruh Khus, or Vata Blend Combine the carrier oil and essential oil in a small dish. Lay a towel for sitting on or beside your bed. Take time to luxuriate in a long slow foot massage, giving special attention to the joints, arch, and soles of the feet. Let your breath be slow and deep. When you’re done, put on a pair of sleeping socks to keep the oil in and protect your sheets.

SKIN

Vetiver is excellent for topical application after exposure to the sun, or anytime you want to cool your skin and constitution. Apply this body oil all over in gentle slow strokes to soothe, cool, and repair the skin.

Heat-Reducing Body Oil

• 2 tbsp Carrier Oil plus 4 drops Vetiver essential oil 4 drops Chamomile essential oil 4 drops
• Helichrysum essential oil blend or 8-12 drops Little Angels essential oil blend

MEDITATION

Vetiver is an excellent addition to meditation practice whether seated, propped in a restorative position, or lying on the back for Yoga Nidra. When you’ve chosen your practice position, place a few drops in the palm of your hand. Witness the slowness with which the Vetiver oil drops fall from the bottle and breathe into that viscous, intentional quality. Rub the hands together creating gentle heat, and cup the palms over the face to breathe deeply as you visualize sending roots into the earth and arriving in your meditation.

Haitian Eco Project

Floracopeia’s Haitian Vetiver is sustainably harvested and certified Organic and Fair Trade by ECOCERT. The distiller we work with offers fair wages to all employees, education and youth projects, and works to keep the vibrant Haitian culture alive through community gatherings and traditional music.