Derived from a “perennial bunchgrass” is an essential oil known as Vetiver Oil. This oil is extracted from a “bunchgrass” belonging to the “Chrysopogon zizanioides” species in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is extracted from the roots using the “steam distillation” process. In addition, this oil comprises of a slightly “earthy and citrusy” aroma. This oil is mainly used for its stimulating effects on the human immune system.
A. Chemical constituents of Vetiver Oil:
This oil is extracted from a “bunchgrass” belonging to the “Chrysopogon zizanioides” species in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil comprises of organic compounds such as alpha vetivone, benzoic acid, beta vetivone, furfurol, vetiverol, vetivene and vetivenyl vetivenate.
B. The uses and benefits of Vetiver Oil:
There are a number of benefits that an individual can gain to using this oil. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Anti-inflammatory:
This oil when used helps in suppressing inflammation and swelling thereby serving as an “anti-inflammatory”.
2. Antiseptic:
This oil also serves as an “antiseptic” when used enables the treatment of wounds by destroying disease causing microbes.
3. Aphrodisiac:
This oil also when used stimulates “sexual desire” in individuals, and thereby proves to be useful as an aphrodisiac.
4. Antibacterial:
This oil when used helps in preventing bacterial infections by inhibiting the growth of bacteria causing agents.
5. Hypnotic:
This oil also possesses a “hypnotic” property, and helps in inducing sleep especially in individuals who are suffering from insomnia.
C. Adverse effects of Vetiver Oil:
There are a couple of adverse effects that may occur on using this oil. They are as follows:
- The use of this oil (like many others) can be extremely severe harmful to pregnancy, and hence pregnant women must avoid using it.
This oil usage may also lead to skin irritation especially in individuals who have sensitive skin, and hence it must be used carefully.
