Specifics

Personal Experience, Research, Possible Actions

Just as you can use essential oils for cleaning rather than using toxic chemicals, you can use Vetiver (or Sandalwood, Spikenard and Patchouli) as a perfume instead of chemically-derived perfumes. I like to run my finger over the top of the bottle and put that on my wrists and neck. Be sure you do not have a sensitive reaction to it. If you tend to have sensitive skin, just dilute it in some Jojoba oil and make an oil-based perfume, or add it to a cream.

According to Katharine Koeppen, on the Indian subcontinent they weave the grass into mats, hanging them in widows and doors to repell insects while cooling the home.  They add the oils to baths and apply to the skin for a cooling effect and use in chilled deserts and drinks as a flavorant.  In Ayurveda, the root is ground into a paste that is rubbed on the body to reduce fever.

Katharine also states that if you are having a bad day, this is the oil to rub on the palms and soles of your feet.  Vetiver is cooling to the mind and is a great oil of choice for those suffering withdrawal from drugs, alchohol, nicotine etc.  Vetiver helps quill jitters and provides peace of mind and body. 

Vetiver is also known, according to Katharine, to be a good choice for trauma victims who are anxiety ridden and hypersenitive.  Vetiver provides grounding and serves the needs of seeking a rebirth and connection to their authentic self.

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Therapeutic Properties

• Antifungal - inhibits growth of fungus
• Antiseptic - assists in fighting germs/infections
• Cooling
• Grounding
• Immune stimulant - stimulates functioning of immune system
• Nervine - supports the nervous system: strengthens, restores, eases
• Sedative - reduces activity, calming (insomnia)
• Tonic - strengthens and restores vitality

Emotional and Energetic Qualities

Connects one with the earth and earth energies
Grounds and protects
Sedates and restores
Connects one with oneself

Recipe

Oil of Tranquility
If you love the aroma of Vetiver, put 3 or 4 drops of it in your hot full bathtub and soak away the blues. At the same time it will support your immune system! Sometimes I add 1 drop of Grapefruit to a teaspoon of Jojoba and add that into my Vetiver bath. Heaven.

Referencing:

1. Battaglia S. The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. 2nd edition, The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2003
2. Davis P. Aromatherapy an A-Z. New revised edition C.W. Daniel Company Limited, England, 1999
3. Mojay G. Aromatherapy for Healing the Spirit, Henry Holt and Company Inc., England, 1996
4. Price S. Aromatherapy for Health Professionals, 2nd edition, Churchill Livingstone, 1999
5. Schnaubelt K. Advanced Aromatherapy, The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, Healing Arts Press, USA, 1998

Safety

No safety issues specific to this oil.