Ushir (Vetiveria Zizanioides): Vetiver Essential Oil

Introduction

In the vast realm of Ayurveda, Ushir (Vetiveria Zizanioides) stands out as a potent medicinal plant with an extensive range of benefits. Known for its earthy fragrance and therapeutic properties, vetiver is a powerful coolant, detoxifier, and skin rejuvenator. With deep roots both literally and figuratively, vetiver has been used in Ayurvedic formulations for centuries to treat numerous ailments. In this article, we explore the marvels of vetiver in Ayurveda, its medicinal uses, preparation methods, and modern applications.

Botanical Classification of Ushir

• Kingdom – Plantae
• Subkingdom – Tracheobionta
• Superdivision – Spermatophyta
• Division – Magnoliophyta
• Class – Liliopsida
• Subclass – Commelinidae
• Order – Cyperales
• Family – Graminae
• Genus – Vetiveria
• Species – Zizanioides

Vernacular Names of Ushir

Names in different languages:

• Hindi: Khas, Usheer
• English: Khas Khas Grass, Kus Kus Grass, Vetiver
• Kannada: Lavancha
• Telugu: Vattivellu
• Bengali: Khaskhas, Venaghas
• Marathi: Vala
• Gujarati: Valo
• Tamil: Vettiver, Vetivera
• Malayalam: Ramacham

Sanskrit Synonyms of Ushir

• Nalada – It has a pleasant aroma
• Jalavasa – Grows commonly near water resources
• Amrnala, Veerana, Virani, Veeratara, Valaka, Balaka, Truna Valukam, Veniga Mulakam
• Abhaya, Ranapriya, Virataru, Haripriya
• Jalavasa, Jalaamoda – Grows in moist places
• Amrunala, Mrunalaka – Appears similar to lotus stalk
• Sugandhika, Samagandhika, Sugandhamula – Has a pleasant odor
• Bahumoola – Bushy root
• Shishiram, Sheetamoola – Root is a coolant
• Sevya – Suitable for consumption

Classical Categorization of Ushir (Vetiver)

Charaka Samhita

• Varnya – Group of herbs useful in improving complexion

• Stanyajanana – Group of herbs promoting lactation

• Chardinigrahana – Antiemetic group of herbs

• Daha Prasamana – Burning sensation relieving group of herbs

• Angamardaprasamana – Bodyache relieving group of herbs

• Shukrasodhana – Cleansing and improving the quality of semen and sperm

• Tikta Skandha – Bitter-tasting group of herbs

Sushruta Samhita

• Sarivadi Gana – Group of herbs used for cooling and detoxifying

• Eladi Gana – Group of aromatic herbs

• Pittasamsamana – Group of herbs that pacify Pitta dosha

Vagbhata

• Sarivadi – Cooling and blood-purifying herbs

Bhavaprakasha Nighantu

• Karpooradi Varga – Group of herbs with cooling and aromatic properties

Distribution of Vetiver (Ushir)

Ushir is naturally found in aquatic and subaquatic regions across India, particularly in:

• Dakshina Bharata (South India)

• Bengal

• Rajasthan, especially along riverbanks

Morphology of Vetiver

• Habit: A densely tufted perennial grass with branching rootstock and spongy, aromatic roots.

• Leaf Sheaths: Compressed, especially lower sheaths, which are sharply keeled, fan-like, smooth, and firm.

• Inflorescence:

  • Type: Raceme

  • Size: Up to 5 cm long

  • Appearance: Very slender, rough, minutely and unequally ciliate

  • Color: Yellowish, violet-brown, or purplish

• Useful Part: Root

  • Fibrous and wiry, up to 2 mm in diameter

  • Longitudinally grooved

  • Color varies from cream, gray, light yellow to brown

  • Has a strong aromatic odor

  • Taste is slightly bitter

Chemical Constituents of Vetiver (Ushir)

Vetiver contains various bioactive compounds, including:

• Essential Oils & Aromatic Compounds:

  • Vetiverol

  • Vetivenic acid

  • Zizaene

  • Zizanol

  • Khusinol

  • Khusimyl acetate

  • Khusinodiol

  • Vanillin

• Terpenes & Sesquiterpenes:

  • Allokhusiol

  • Benzoic acid

  • Cyclocapacamphene

  • Epikhusinol

  • Epizizanal

  • 2-Epizizanone

  • B-Edusmol

  • Eugenol

  • Iskhusimol

  • Isokhusinoloxide

  • Isovalencenol

  • Isovalencic acid

  • Vertiselinenol

  • B- & J-Vetivene

These compounds contribute to vetiver’s cooling, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and aromatic properties, making it valuable in Ayurveda and modern medicine.

Medicinal Properties of Vetiver

• Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Madhura (Sweet)

• Guna (Qualities): Rooksha (Dryness), Laghu (Lightness)

• Vipaka (Post-Digestive Effect): Katu (Pungent after digestion)

• Veerya (Potency): Sheeta (Cooling)

• Effect on Tridosha: Pacifies Vata and Pitta

Ushir Dry Root Powder

• Part Used: Ushir Root, Vetiver Oil

• Dosage:

  • Powder: 3-6g

  • Decoction: 50-100ml

  • Infusion (Hima / Phanta): 25-50ml

Ayurvedic Uses of Ushir

1. Cooling and Pitta Balancing

Vetiver is renowned for its cooling properties, making it an effective remedy for excessive heat and Pitta-related disorders. It is commonly used to manage conditions like hyperacidity, burning sensations, and excessive sweating. Ayurvedic practitioners prescribe vetiver-infused water to soothe the body during extreme summers.

2. Detoxification and Blood Purification

Due to its Rakta Shodhana (blood-purifying) properties, vetiver is used in Ayurvedic medicine to cleanse the bloodstream and eliminate toxins. It is often included in herbal decoctions to treat skin conditions, acne, and inflammatory disorders.

3. Skin Health and Rejuvenation

Vetiver is an excellent skincare ingredient, widely used in Ayurveda to treat eczema, acne, rashes, and sunburns. The essential oil derived from its roots is a powerful antioxidant and is included in herbal soaps, lotions, and face masks to promote radiant skin.

4. Mental Well-being and Stress Relief

Vetiver is known as the “Oil of Tranquility” due to its profound calming effects on the nervous system. Ayurvedic texts mention its use in:

• Reducing anxiety and depression
• Enhancing sleep quality
• Relieving headaches and migraines

Vetiver essential oil is used in aromatherapy and Abhyanga (Ayurvedic massage) to promote relaxation and mental clarity.

5. Urinary and Reproductive Health

Vetiver is a diuretic and urinary cleanser, used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat urinary tract infections (UTIs), dysuria (painful urination), and kidney-related issues. Additionally, it is valued for its aphrodisiac properties, enhancing libido and reproductive health in both men and women.

6. Fever and Inflammatory Conditions

Ayurveda recommends vetiver for Jwara (fever) and inflammation-related disorders. It is often combined with cooling herbs like Sandalwood, Chandana, and Coriander to manage fever and body heat.

Ayurvedic Formulations Containing Ushir (Vetiver)

Ushir (Vetiver) is widely used in various Ayurvedic formulations due to its cooling, detoxifying, and aromatic properties. Some of the most notable formulations include:

1. Ushirasava – A herbal fermented preparation used for treating urinary tract disorders, bleeding disorders, and excessive body heat.

2. Chandanadi Taila – A cooling medicated oil that contains Ushir and is used for massage therapy, Pitta balancing, and skin conditions.

3. Sarivadyasava – An Ayurvedic tonic that contains Ushir, used for blood purification and skin diseases.

4. Panchagavya Ghrita – A medicated ghee containing Ushir, beneficial for detoxification and rejuvenation.

5. Shadanga Paniya – A herbal infusion containing Ushir, used for hydration, fever management, and detoxification.

6. Eladi Churna – A herbal powder formulation used for digestive issues, skin health, and respiratory disorders.

7. Usheerasava – An Ayurvedic fermented liquid preparation used for urinary disorders, excessive sweating, and burning sensations.

These formulations showcase the versatility and importance of Ushir in Ayurveda, making it a valuable herb in traditional medicine.

Traditional and Modern Preparations of Ushir

1. Vetiver Infused Water (Ushira Jala)

One of the simplest ways to incorporate vetiver into daily life is by preparing vetiver-infused water:

• Take a handful of vetiver roots and soak them in 2 liters of water overnight.
• Strain and consume throughout the day for cooling and detoxifying effects.

2. Vetiver Herbal Paste for Skin

For soothing skin inflammation and acne, a vetiver paste can be prepared:

• Mix vetiver root powder with rose water.
• Apply as a face mask for 15-20 minutes before washing off.

3. Vetiver Oil for Aromatherapy and Massage

• Add a few drops of vetiver essential oil to a diffuser for relaxation.
• Mix with carrier oils like coconut or sesame for a calming massage.

4. Vetiver Tea for Digestion

• Boil vetiver roots in water for 5 minutes.
• Strain and drink warm to aid digestion and relieve bloating.

Research Work on Ushir

1. Phytochemical Composition and Medicinal Properties

Study Title: Phytochemical and Pharmacological Evaluation of Phytosterol Rich Fraction from Vetiveria zizanioides Roots
Journal: International Journal of Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Findings:

• The roots of Ushir contain phytosterols, sesquiterpenes, vetivone, and khusimol.

• Demonstrated antioxidant activity (free radical scavenging) and anti-inflammatory effects through membrane stabilization.

• Supports use in oxidative stress and inflammatory disorders.

2. Diuretic Activity of Ushir Moola (Roots)

Study Title: Pharmacological Study of Diuretic Effect of Ushir (Vetiveria zizanioides)
Journal: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences (JAIMS)
Findings:

• Vetiver root decoction significantly increased urine output in test subjects.

• Confirms classical Ayurvedic indications for urinary disorders and burning micturition.

3. Antioxidant and Free Radical Scavenging

Study Title: Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activities of Vetiver Essential Oil
Journal: PubMed
Findings:

• Vetiver oil contains α-vetivone and β-vetivone, potent antioxidants.

• Exhibits strong DPPH free radical scavenging ability.

• Useful in formulations for anti-aging and cellular protection.

4. Antimicrobial and Anthelmintic Activity

Study Title: In Vitro Anthelmintic Activity of Vetiveria zizanioides Leaf Extract
Journal: Asian Journal of Chemistry
Findings:

• The extract showed significant activity against earthworms, roundworms, and tapeworms.

• Suggests potential for development as a natural anthelmintic agent.

5. Neuroprotective and CNS-Calming Effects

Study Insight:

• Various animal studies report the CNS depressant effect of Vetiver oil.

• Useful in reducing stress, anxiety, and improving sleep quality.

• Vetiver is used in aromatherapy for its sedative and grounding action, supporting its traditional use for Vata disorders in Ayurveda.

6. Environmental and Ecological Research

Applications:

• Used in phytoremediation to clean heavy metals from soil and water.

• Vetiver’s deep root system is effective in preventing soil erosion.

• Research supports its use in constructed wetlands for wastewater treatment.

7. Anti-Inflammatory Potential

A review published in Environmental Science and Pollution Research International explores the anti-inflammatory properties of Vetiver. The study suggests that Vetiver’s stimulation of antioxidant enzyme systems reduces oxidative stress, thereby mitigating inflammation. Additionally, its antimicrobial activity and central nervous system depressant effects may contribute to alleviating inflammation-related discomfort.

8. Antihyperglycaemic Effects

A study in the Asian Journal of Chemistry examined the antihyperglycaemic activity of Vetiver root extract in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in blood glucose levels, suggesting Vetiver’s potential in managing diabetes. ​

The scientific evidence strongly validates the traditional uses of Ushir in Ayurveda. Its cooling, purifying, and calming qualities are backed by pharmacological research, positioning Vetiveria zizanioides as a valuable medicinal and ecological plant.

Modern Applications of Vetiver

In addition to its Ayurvedic uses, vetiver has gained global recognition for its applications in:

• Perfumery – Used as a base note in luxury fragrances.
• Cosmetics – Found in high-end skincare and haircare products.
• Soil Conservation – Vetiver’s deep roots prevent soil erosion.
• Textile Industry – Used in the production of natural cooling mats and screens.

Conclusion

Vetiver (Vetiveria Zizanioides) is truly an Ayurvedic marvel, offering a plethora of health benefits ranging from cooling and detoxification to skin health and mental relaxation. Whether used in traditional remedies, skincare, or modern formulations, its impact on well-being is undeniable. Incorporate this versatile herb into your daily routine to experience its full therapeutic potential.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ushir (Vetiver )

1. What are the medicinal properties of Ushir in Ayurveda?

Ushir has several powerful medicinal properties, including:

• Rasa (Taste): Bitter (Tikta) and Sweet (Madhura)

• Guna (Qualities): Dry (Ruksha) and Light (Laghu)

• Veerya (Potency): Cooling (Sheeta)

• Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Pungent (Katu)

These properties make Ushir effective for balancing various bodily functions and promoting overall health.

2. What health benefits does Ushir offer in Ayurvedic practice?

Ushir provides a wide range of health benefits:

• Supports the Nervous System: Ushir strengthens the brain and nerves, making it useful for conditions like unconsciousness and vertigo.

• Aids the Digestive System: It reduces gastric secretions, relieves acid peptic conditions, and acts as a carminative to improve digestion.

• Purifies the Blood: Ushir has blood-purifying properties, reduces excess water, and helps manage conditions like epistaxis.

• Improves Respiratory Health: It helps treat cough, bronchial asthma, and hiccups.

• Supports Urinary Health: Ushir acts as a diuretic, improving urination and alleviating burning sensations during urination.

3. How does Ushir benefit the skin?

Ushir is widely used for its skin benefits:

• Treats Acne and Pimples: A face pack made with Ushir root powder, sandalwood powder, and rose water helps treat acne and pimples.

• Heals Burns and Skin Irritations: Applying a paste of Ushir root powder to burns, herpes, and insect bites helps relieve pain and promotes healing.

• Enhances Skin Glow: Regular use of Ushir water or face packs improves complexion and gives the skin a radiant glow.

4. How can Ushir improve hair health?

Ushir also provides several benefits for hair care:

• Promotes Scalp Health: Hair oils made with Ushir help alleviate itching, dandruff, and flaking on the scalp.

• Strengthens Hair: A rinse made from soaked Ushir roots helps promote healthy, strong, and shiny hair.

5. What is the recommended dosage of Ushir?

The recommended dosage of Ushir depends on the form used:

• Powder: 3 to 6 grams per day

• Decoction: 50 to 100 ml

• Aqua Cold Infusion: 50 ml

It is best to consume Ushir with plain, cool water after meals for maximum benefit.

6. Are there any precautions or side effects when using Ushir?

Ushir is generally safe when used within the recommended dosage. However, it’s important to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before starting any new regimen, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have pre-existing health conditions. People with respiratory conditions like a cough or cold should use Ushir cautiously due to its cooling properties, which may increase mucus production.

7. How can I incorporate Ushir into my daily Ayurvedic routine?

Ushir can be easily added to your daily Ayurvedic routine in various forms:

• Ushir Water: Soak a few grams of Ushir root powder in water overnight. In the morning, filter and drink this water to reduce body heat, alleviate thirst, and support digestion.

• Topical Application: Create a paste from Ushir root powder and apply it to the skin to treat burning sensations, excessive sweating, and skin disorders.

Using Ushir regularly can help support overall health and well-being. However, it’s essential to use it under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner to ensure safe and effective use.

You can also read about Sarpagandha (Rauvolfia serpentina): Is It Good for Hypertension?

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