An Indian native, vetiver is a perennial grass of the Poaceae family. In the scientific literature, vetiver is referred to as both Brazilian vetiver or vetivergrass (Vetiveria zizanioides) and vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides); these Latin names are considered synonymous.
Tamil literature mentions the usage of vetiver for medical purposes and vetiver oil is commonly used in high-end perfumes. Currently, there is a lack of available high-quality clinical trials assessing the safety and efficacy of vetiver for any indication.
Evidence
DISCLAIMER:
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Tradition
WARNING:
DISCLAIMER:
The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below. Food uses, fragrance (detergents, perfumes, soaps).
Dosing
Adults (18 years and older):
There is no proven safe or effective dose for vetiver in adults.
Children (younger than 18 years):
There is no proven safe or effective dose for vetiver in children.
Safety
DISCLAIMER:
Many complementary techniques are practiced by healthcare professionals with formal training, in accordance with the standards of national organizations. However, this is not universally the case, and adverse effects are possible. Due to limited research, in some cases only limited safety information is available.
Allergies
Avoid with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides or Chrysopogon zizanioides) or its constituents.
Side Effects and Warnings
Studies investigating the safety or efficacy of vetiver for any indication are lacking.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Vetiver is not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence.
Interactions
Interactions with Drugs
Insufficient available evidence.
Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements
Insufficient available evidence.
Attribution
This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature, and was peer-reviewed and edited by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com): Dawn Costa, BA, BS (Natural Standard Research Collaboration); Nicole Giese, MS (Natural Standard Research Collaboration); James Hegarty, PharmD (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy); Shaina Tanguay-Colucci, BS (Natural Standard Research Collaboration); Catherine Ulbricht, PharmD (Massachusetts General Hospital); Wendy Weissner, BA (Natural Standard Research Collaboration).
Bibliography
DISCLAIMER:
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.
Martinez J, Rosa PT, Menut C, et al. Valorization of Brazilian vetiver (Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash ex Small) oil. J Agric.Food Chem 10-20-2004;52(21):6578-6584.
Marzulli FN, Maibach HI. Further studies of effects of vehicles and elicitation concentration in experimental contact sensitization testing in humans. Contact Dermatitis 1980;6(2):131-133.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children,
never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.
