Chrysopogon spp.

Related Terms

Brazilian vetiver, Brazilian vetiver oil, Brazilian volatile oil, Chrysopogon, Chrysopogonaciculatus, Chrysopogon zizanioides, Poaceae (family), vetiver acetate, vetiver oils, vetivergrass, Vetiveria zizanioides L., Vetiveria zizanioides (L.) Nash ex Small.

Background

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 Table

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. GRADE *
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. GRADE *
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)
* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory

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.

Dosing

Adults (18 years and older):
There is no proven safe or effective dose for vetiver in adults.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Interactions

Interactions with Drugs
Insufficient available evidence.

Attribution

This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

Bibliography

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.