Vetiver/Khus/Lavancha Roots

Vetiver/Khus has been utilized in India since ancient times. It is considered a premium fragrance with cooling attributes. In Ayurvedic texts, it is referred to as 'Sita-mulaka' (cool roots) and 'Suganti-mulaka' (sweet-smelling). It should not be mistaken for Khash-Khash (Poppy seeds).

Throughout India, its roots have been traditionally woven into aromatic mats, fans, decorative baskets, and various small items for centuries. During summer, doors and windows are often covered with mats made from Vetiver/Khus root fibers, and water is sprinkled on them from the outside. This releases a pleasant scent and maintains a cool temperature in the rooms until the moisture evaporates.

The scent of Vetiver/Khus roots is invigorating, soothing, and comforting. It helps cool both the body and mind during excessive heat. These slender aromatic roots are utilized in incense burning, producing an earthy, sweet, deep, and calming fragrance when added in small amounts to incense blends.

Vetiver/Khus Sharbat (Syrup):

Khus Syrup is a deep green syrup with a sweet, refreshing, woody flavor and aroma, created from the extract of dried Khus grass/Vetiver roots. Here's how to prepare it:

Preparation time: 10-12 minutes

Cooking time: 20-25 minutes

Yield: 1 liter

Ingredients:

• 50-60 grams of Khus/Vetiver (Ramacham in Malayalam)

• 5 cups (1250 ml) of water

• Approximately 600 grams of sugar

Instructions:

1. Remove any thick portions from the Khus roots using kitchen scissors and discard.

2. Thoroughly wash the Khus roots under running water to remove dirt or stones.

3. Cut the Khus roots into smaller pieces and soak in water for about 12 hours at room temperature.

4. Strain the solution and collect the extract in a bowl. Squeeze the soaked roots to drain all water. Discard the used roots.

5. Add sugar to the extract and mix well.

6. Heat the mixture on low heat, stirring continuously until sugar dissolves.

7. Bring to a boil and cook until it reaches a one-thread consistency.

8. Filter the hot syrup directly into a clean glass jar or bottle.

9. Seal the container tightly and allow to cool at room temperature.

10. Refrigerate if desired.

Serving:

Mix 1 tablespoon of Khus Sharbat and 1 teaspoon of Kewra water (optional) in a glass. Add chilled water to fill 3/4 of the glass, then top with 1 teaspoon of soaked Sabja seeds and crushed ice. Serve immediately.

Vetiver/Khus Water:

Vetiver/Khus roots are used to create flavored water, which is believed to possess many of the properties of Usheer (Khus roots), albeit in milder form. This water may also alleviate painful urination.

1. Take a small amount of Vetiver/Khus roots and twist into a bundle.

2. Place the bundle in a clean clay pot (recommended).

3. Boil water, cool to room temperature, and pour into the pot. Cover and let sit for 3-4 hours to infuse.

4. Strain and use the water.

Note:

• Adjust the amount of Vetiver/Khus roots to taste, as the water can be strongly aromatic.

• Use the infused water within 10-12 hours.

• Replace water and roots daily.

• Clay pots are preferred, especially in summer, as they help keep the body cool.

Benefits and Applications:

• Widely used in perfumes, cosmetics, and scented soaps. Blends well with rose, sandalwood, and patchouli oils.

• Used to create tonic baths and is often included in high-quality soaps.

• Khus root mats are hung in houses to cool rooms in summer and add a pleasant aroma when sprinkled with water.

• The herb, tied in muslin cloth, can be added to water-filled earthen pots to impart its distinct flavor and aroma.

• Khus sharbat is given in summer to alleviate burning urination and dysuria.

• Acts as a blood purifier due to its 'Tikta' Rasa.

• Strengthens the brain and nerves, and may help with unconsciousness, vertigo, and brain disorders.

• Useful for burning sensations, thirst, and fever-related temperature increases.

• Aids digestion and may help with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

• Strengthens the stomach, reduces gastric secretion, and may benefit acid-peptic diseases.

• Possesses anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that may provide relief from inflammations in the circulatory and nervous systems.

Other Names: Kush Roots, Khash Root, Vala , Khas Root, Vetiver, Avurugaddivaeru, Usheera, Verran Mool, Laghubhaya, Vetriver, Vativer, Vattiver, khas ki jad in english, Khus Root , Vetiveria Zizanioides, Vetiver Roots, Vetevar Roots, Khus Ghas, Khas Ghas, Khas Roots, Vetiver Roots, Ramacham, Ushira, Vettiver Roots, Lavancham, Usheera khas root, Usira, khus jad, Vetivar, Vetiveru, Cuscus Grass, Camel Grass, Useera,Vetiver Grass, Wala, Kas Ramacham, Chrysopogon Zizanioides, Vativar, Coleus Vettiveroides, Vilamichai Ver, Valak, Ushir, Usheer, Vetti Veru, Plectranthus Vettiveroides, Lavancha, Lavanch, Vettivar, Vattiverlu