Tall lush perennial grasses originally from India and Indonesia. Their stalks have long thin leaves and it is their roots that contain the principal fragrance.
The current principal provider is Haiti. Reunion Island produces a very subtle and expensive vetiver called bourbon vetiver. It can also be found in India, Brazil, China and Java.
The essential oil is obtained through vapor distillation of the washed roots that have been cut into pieces and dried in the sun.
Used in woody, chypre and oriental fragrances.
Treats depression, insomnia, nervous tension. The persistent smell of vetiver acts on the red blood cell count and brings a general balance to organic functions. It is in tune with wisdom, fortifying will and stimulating force. It combats melancholy.
