Cultivation of Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides (L.) Roberty)- A Versatile Medicinal and Aromatic Plant

Abstract

Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) is a versatile medicinal and aromatic plant mainly used for soil and conservation purposes. It is a perennial grass species with a densely tufted enormous root system that grows up to two meters long. The fibrous roots are highly aromatic and used for extraction of essential oils used in high-grade perfumes as a base or fixative for their long-lasting characteristic odor. The fragrant dry roots are traditionally used for water purification in south India. Besides, the consumption of vetiver-treated water has cooling properties and refreshes the body and mind. It also acts as a deodorant and stimulant, aids digestion, and has carminative, colic, anthelmintic, and antioxidant properties. It is a very hard grass, suitable for growing in wastelands, arid regions, and hill slopes with the least maintenance. The worldwide demand for vetiver oil was estimated at around 408.8 t/year in 2019, and the growth was reported to increase at a CAGR of 7.8 % from 2020-2027. India consumes 100 tons of vetiver oil annually; the domestic production is only 20 tons, and the remaining 80 % of the oil is imported. Hence, there is a lot of scope for increasing the vetiver area in India and globally. Looking at its vast utilization and demand, an attempt has been made to present the improved cultivation practices of vetiver based on the literature survey and experience.