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Overview: Vetiver is a tall, fragrant grass called Chrysopogon zizanioides (also known as Vetiveria zizanioides). Its roots are the main part used, and they are often distilled into an aromatic essential oil. Vetiver is also sold as dried root, powders, teas, and capsules. People take vetiver or use its oil for many reasons, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support, skin care, and traditional “cooling” uses for fever and digestion. Most of this research has been done in the laboratory and in animals, and the benefits in people are not well defined. The most common side effect is an allergic skin reaction in some people who use vetiver oil on their skin. Before using vetiver, tell your health care provider about any health conditions you have and any medicines you are taking.

Uses

What is vetiver used for?

Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) is a grass whose roots and root oil have a long history of use in traditional medicine and perfumery. Evidence in humans is limited. It is used for the following.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Support. Vetiver root extracts and oil are used most often for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Skin and Antimicrobial Uses. Vetiver oil is used in skin and beauty products and has been studied for its effects on germs.

Traditional Uses. Vetiver root has been used as a “cooling” remedy for heat, fever, headache, upset stomach, other digestive complaints, and skin problems.

Vetiver is also used for many other purposes, such as calming or relaxation (when used as an aromatherapy oil), wound care, and general wellness. The benefits of vetiver for these and other uses are not well defined.

Note: The FDA has not reviewed vetiver for safety and effectiveness. Learn more about dietary supplements here.

How does vetiver work (mechanism of action)?

Vetiver is a tall, clumping grass called Chrysopogon zizanioides, which is also known by the older name Vetiveria zizanioides. It grows in India and other warm parts of Asia and is now grown in many tropical regions. The plant’s thin, deep roots are the main part used in medicine. The roots are often steam-distilled to make vetiver essential oil, a thick, fragrant oil used in perfume, aromatherapy, and skin care products. The above-ground (aerial) parts of the plant have also been studied.

Vetiver roots and oil naturally contain a large number of chemicals. The best-studied are a group of compounds called sesquiterpenes. These chemicals give vetiver its scent and are thought to be responsible for many of its effects. Vetiver roots also contain other chemicals, such as phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which are known for antioxidant activity.

Researchers believe vetiver works mainly by lowering inflammation and acting as an antioxidant. In laboratory studies, vetiver extracts lowered the production of chemical messengers that turn on inflammation, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and certain interleukins, and reduced the activity of a control protein called nuclear factor kappa B.

As an antioxidant, vetiver helps protect cells from damage and supports the body’s own antioxidant defenses. Vetiver oil has also slowed the growth of certain bacteria in laboratory tests.

Most of what is known about vetiver comes from laboratory and animal research. Evidence in humans is limited, so the benefits of vetiver are not well defined.

Herbal products, such as vetiver, naturally contain many different chemicals. The amounts of each chemical in a specific vetiver product may vary. Some, none, or all of these chemicals may have effects on the body. These effects may change depending on how much of each chemical is found in the product you are using.

How should I store vetiver?

You should store vetiver according to the product label. Most dietary supplements should be kept in a cool, dry location that is out of the reach of children and pets and not in direct sunlight.

Side Effects

What are the most common side effects of vetiver?

There is not enough research to know what the common side effects may be when taking vetiver by mouth. The most common side effects of vetiver when applied to the skin are listed below. These side effects may vary depending on the amount or the specific product you are using. Tell your health care provider if you have any of these side effects that bother you.

  • An allergic skin reaction, also called allergic contact dermatitis
  • Skin rash or redness
  • Itching

There may be other side effects of vetiver that are not listed here. Contact your health care provider if you think you are having a side effect of a supplement. In the U.S., you can report side effects to the FDA at www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov or by calling 888-SAFEFOOD (888-723-3366). In Canada, you can report side effects to Health Canada at www.health.gc.ca/medeffect or by calling 866-234-2345.

What are the serious side effects of vetiver?

While less common, the most serious side effects of vetiver are described below, along with what to do if they happen.

Severe Allergic Reactions. Vetiver may cause allergic reactions, which can be serious. Stop using vetiver and get help right away if you have any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction.

  • Breathing problems or wheezing
  • Racing heart
  • Fever or general ill feeling
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
  • Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
  • Itching or skin rash
  • Bumps on the skin called hives that can be red, pink, white, or brown depending on your skin tone
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Joint pain

Warnings & Precautions

Who should not use vetiver?

Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use vetiver.

  • Chrysopogon zizanioides (also called Vetiveria zizanioides)
  • Vetiver
  • Any of the ingredients in the specific product

Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific vetiver products they stock.

What should I know about vetiver before using it?

Vetiver is a dietary supplement. It cannot be marketed to treat or cure a disease.

Vetiver is available in many forms. Common forms include the dried root, powders, teas made from the root, capsules, and a concentrated essential oil made from the roots. Read and follow the directions on the specific product you are taking, or take it as recommended by your health care provider.

Vetiver oil is very concentrated. Essential oils, such as vetiver oil, are meant to be used in small amounts and should not be swallowed. If you use vetiver oil on your skin, follow the product directions, as concentrated oils are usually mixed with a carrier oil before they are applied. It is a good idea to test a small area of skin first to check for irritation or an allergic reaction.

Vetiver oil can cause an allergic skin reaction, called contact dermatitis, in some people. Essential oils are a known cause of skin allergy. Do not put undiluted vetiver oil directly on your skin, because this can raise the chance of becoming allergic to it over time. Vetiver is also used as a fragrance in perfumes and cosmetics, where safety reviewers have found it acceptable at the small amounts used in those products.

Keep vetiver out of the reach of children.

Herbal products, such as vetiver, naturally contain many different chemicals. The amount of each chemical in a specific vetiver product can change for many reasons, including the area where the plant was grown, the weather during growth, the time of year when it was harvested, and the way that the plant was processed after it was harvested. If you switch to a new bottle or a different brand, you may not have the same effects or side effects because of this variability. Talk to your health care provider if you have questions or concerns.

Vetiver is sold as a dietary supplement, but it is also widely available as an essential oil used on the skin and in aromatherapy. Products meant for use on the skin or for scent are not meant to be swallowed. Read the label to be sure you are using the product as intended.

The FDA has not tested vetiver products to confirm that they contain the ingredients stated on their labels. Some dietary supplements have been tested by third-party organizations to confirm that they contain the ingredients listed on their labels and do not contain any harmful chemicals. Learn more about how to choose a safe dietary supplement product here.

What should I tell my health care provider before using vetiver?

Tell your health care provider about all of your health conditions and any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. This will help them know if vetiver is right for you.

In particular, make sure that you discuss any of the following.

Other Medicines and Supplements. Before using vetiver, tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using.

Allergies to Grasses or Plants. Vetiver is a type of grass. If you have known plant or grass allergies, talk to your health care provider before using vetiver.

Allergies to Fragrances or Essential Oils. If you have had an allergic skin reaction to other essential oils, fragrances, or scented products, you may be more likely to react to vetiver. Talk to your health care provider before using vetiver oil.

Skin Conditions. Vetiver oil is often used on the skin. If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, talk to your health care provider before using vetiver oil. If you use it, it is always a good idea to test a small area of skin first.

Pregnancy. It is not known if or how vetiver could affect pregnancy or harm a fetus. In general, herbal products are not recommended during pregnancy unless a health care provider advises otherwise, as their safety has not been well studied. Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Breastfeeding. It is not known if vetiver passes into breast milk. There is not enough reliable information to know if vetiver is safe to use while breastfeeding. Tell your health care provider if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed.

Interactions

Does vetiver interact with foods or drinks?

There are no known interactions between vetiver and foods or drinks.

It is unknown if drinking alcohol will affect vetiver.

Does vetiver interact with medicines (drug interactions)?

Always tell your health care provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using so they can watch for any potential interactions.

The interactions between vetiver and medicines are not fully understood. As with most dietary supplements, the research on drug interactions with vetiver is incomplete. Always check with your health care provider before taking vetiver with any medicines.

Overdose/Missed Dose

What should I do if I accidentally use too much vetiver?

If you or someone else has used too much vetiver, get medical help right away, call 911, or contact a Poison Control center at 800-222-1222.

Vetiver is most often available as the dried root, powders, teas, capsules, and a concentrated essential oil. Vetiver oil is very concentrated and should not be swallowed. Read the product label closely, and speak with a health care provider about how to use vetiver safely. Do not use double or extra doses, even if you miss a dose.