(292) Vetiver Root Harvesting

Chrysopogon zizanioides, commonly known as vetiver and khus, is a perennial bunchgrass of the family Poaceae. Vetiver is derived from the Tamil வெட்டிவேர் (veṭṭivēr) meaning 'root that is dug up'. The massive root system of vetiver is finely structured, fast growing and very strong. vetiver's roots grow downward to a depth of 2 to 3 meters within the first year. it can reach up to 5 meters in tropical conditions. New shoots develop from the underground crown making vetiver resistant to fire, frosts, traffic, heavy grazing pressure and very drought tolerant.

How to Grow Vetiver : -

Materials - Vetiver Plant, Pot, Soil, Egg Shell Powdered, Coconut Husk, Water.

1. Mix potting soil & powdered egg shell (loosen soil texture is ideal for root growth and harvesting)
2. Layer the pot with coconut husk & spread soil mixture
3. Place the stalks in the soil & spread layers of soil - sprinkle water
4. This plant needs plenty of sunlight & light most.

How to Harvest Vetiver : -

1. Harvesting is done during dry season by manually digging out the bush along with its roots
2. Keep wetting soil to facilitate digging
3. Once the roots are washed, they are white and plump, and they smell of earth
4. Cut the roots off - separate them into stems with a bit of root for replanting

Planting in PVC pipe - Replant the stalks in a pipe, this method is way much easier to harvest roots fromt he ground - Pull out the pipe, cut and open it.

The Vetiver System (VS) is a system of soil and water conservation whose main component is the use of the vetiver plant in hedgerows. This system is a developing technology used in more than 100 countries for soil and water conservation, infrastructure stabilization, pollution control, waste water treatment, mitigation and rehabilitation, sediment control, prevention of storm damage and other environmental protection applications (through bioengineering and phytoremediation) and other uses where soil and water come together. The variety of vetiver that is promoted for VS applications originates in south India.

Food and flavorings - Vetiver is an edible plant used as a flavoring agent, usually as khus syrup. The syrup is used to flavor milkshakes ,yoghurt drinks, ice creams and the oil obtain from the roots is used as a flavoring in sherbets, syrup sweets, fruit drinks . Roots have coolant properties & a natural water purifier too.

Medicine - Vetiver's essential oil has been used in traditional medicine, it has great anti-fungal, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and grounding properties. These oil used in specific medical compounds. Vetiver oil is renowned for its sedative properties, making it an excellent natural remedy for sleep disorders . Vetiver roots were traditionally used to reduce bacteria proliferation in water jugs and jars.

Perfumery - Vetiver has excellent fixative properties is mainly cultivated for the fragrant essential oil distilled from its roots. it's a key ingredient in 90% of Western perfumes. Notable examples include Dior's Eau Sauvage, Guerlain Vétiver, Mr. Vétiver by Une Nuit à Bali, Zizan by Ormonde Jayne, Vétiver by L'Occitane en Provence, Encre Noire by Lalique or Vetiver Root by Korres.

Skin care - From the roots, oil is extracted and used for cosmetics, herbal skincare, ayurvedic soap and cleanser giving them a luxurious scent. Vetiver is credited to be a natural detoxifier.

Aromatherapy - Burning vetiver roots like incense releases a positivity-filled aroma, a natural aromatherapy practice. Vetiver Incense has a heavy, woodsy, earthy and sweet scent.

Essential oil - Vetiver oil or khus oil, is a complex oil which is considered one of the most expensive, containing over 150 identified components. vetiver's odor develops and improves with aging. One of the best essential oil for high end luxury scented candles.

Handicrafts - Vetiver provides a very good resouces material for handicrafts. Its fibrous properties make it useful for blinds, hats, mats, ropes, Vettiver Handfan and more.

Animal feed - The leaves of vetiver are a useful byproduct to feed cattle, goats, sheep and horses. It can be used as a “cut and carry” feed product.

Crop - In some countries vetiver has been used to define property lines. It can be used for crop protection and pest repellent. Vetiver grass is not significantly affected by pests and diseases.

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