Vetiver

(Vetiver)
Sanskrit: उशीर • Botanical: Vetiveria zizanioides (Linn.) Nash

Ushira (Vetiver) is the fragrant root of Vetiveria zizanioides, widely found throughout India. The roots are extensively used for their cooling and aromatic properties. Khus-khus curtains made from the roots are used for cooling in summer. The essential oil (Vetiver oil) is valuable in perfumery. In Ayurveda, it is one of the best cooling drugs, used in burning sensation, excessive thirst, fever, and bleeding disorders. It pacifies Pitta and Kapha. The roots are woven into screens and mats. The drug is used in formulations for urinary disorders, skin diseases, and as a general coolant. It also removes body odor. Dose: 3-6 grams.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Bitter (Tikta), Sweet (Madhura)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Dry (Ruksha)
Potency (Virya)
Cold (Sheeta)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Vetiver oil, Vetiverol, Vetivone, Andropogonol, Khusimol
Also Known As
English: Vetiver, Cuscus grass
Sanskrit: उशीर, अभय, नलद, सेव्य, अमृणाल, लामज्जक
Hindi: खस, वाला

What is Vetiver (Ushira / उशीर)?

Ushira (Vetiver) is the fragrant root of Vetiveria zizanioides, widely found throughout India. The roots are extensively used for their cooling and aromatic properties. Khus-khus curtains made from the roots are used for cooling in summer. The essential oil (Vetiver oil) is valuable in perfumery. In Ayurveda, it is one of the best cooling drugs, used in burning sensation, excessive thirst, fever, and bleeding disorders. It pacifies Pitta and Kapha. The roots are woven into screens and mats. The drug is used in formulations for urinary disorders, skin diseases, and as a general coolant. It also removes body odor. Dose: 3-6 grams.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Dahaprashamana (relieves burning sensation)
  • Trishnanigrahana (quenches thirst)
  • Jvarahara (antipyretic)
  • Raktapittahara (controls bleeding disorders)
  • Daurgandhyanashana (removes bad odor)
  • Stambhana (astringent/checking)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 2

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.