Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) is a perennial aromatic grass of the Poaceae family, widely valued for its fragrant roots, essential oil and versatile biomass. The crop has considerable potential for sustainable utilization because its roots, leaves and processing residues can be converted into a range of traditional, commercial and value-added products. Vetiver roots are primarily used for the production of essential oil through steam distillation, with the oil being widely utilized in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, personal-care products and aromatherapy due to its distinctive, long-lasting earthy fragrance and fixative properties. Traditionally, dried vetiver roots are also used for mats, screens, curtains, handicrafts, sachets and other household products. In India, value-added products such as baskets, mats, jewellery boxes, pen holders, mobile holders, wall hangings, hats and footwear demonstrate the potential of vetiver-based crafts. Furthermore, distillation residues and spent biomass can be utilized for compost, organic manure, mulching, biochar, briquettes and pellets, thereby reducing biomass waste and promoting resource recovery. The utilization of vetiver roots and by-products through diverse value-added applications provides opportunities for waste reduction, additional income generation and sustainable production. Thus, vetiver represents a promising multipurpose crop with significant potential in a circular and sustainable bioeconomy.
Vetiver, Vetiver oil, Value-added products, By-products, Handicrafts, Biochar
