Khas

Khas, also written Khus, is the Hindi name for vetiver, a clumping grass that is native to India. Its Sanskrit name, Ushira, is used in Ayurvedic literature. The English name vetiver is generally traced to the Tamil word vettiver, which refers to a root that is dug up. Ushira appears in Ayurvedic preparations such as Shadangapana, described in the Sharangadhara Samhita (Tharindri & Kulatunga, 2025), and in the fermented preparation Ushirasava, which is included in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India (Kumar et al., 2025).

Ayurveda classifies Ushira by its energetics. The Rasa (taste) is Tikta (bitter) and Madhura (sweet), and the Guna (qualities) are Laghu (light) and Ruksha (dry). Virya (potency) is Sheeta (cooling), and Vipaka (post-digestive effect) is Katu (pungent). It is described as pacifying Pitta and Kapha dosha. In classical practice, Ushira is included in formulations indicated for burning sensation (Daha), thirst (Pipasa) and fever (Jwara), under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner (Tharindri & Kulatunga, 2025).

Khas is known by several names in botanical, English and regional Indian usage. The main names are listed below.

• Botanical name: Chrysopogon zizanioides
• English names: Vetiver, Khus grass, Cuscus grass
• Hindi and Bengali: Khas, Khus, Usheer
• Sanskrit and Ayurvedic names: Ushira, Amrinala, Veerana, Sugandhimula
• Gujarati: Valo
• Marathi: Vala
• Tamil: Vettiver
• Telugu: Vattivellu, Kuruveru
• Kannada: Lavancha, Laamancha
• Malayalam: Ramacham

The roots of Khas yield an essential oil that contains more than one hundred compounds, most of them sesquiterpenes. The main constituents reported in the literature are listed below, and their relative proportions vary with the growing region (Champagnat et al., 2006; Pandey & Tiwari, 2024).

• Khusimol: a sesquiterpene alcohol that is often one of the most abundant compounds in the oil.
• Alpha-vetivone and beta-vetivone: sesquiterpene ketones that contribute to the characteristic odour of the oil.
• Khusimone: a sesquiterpene ketone associated with the odour of the oil.
• Vetiverol: the name given to a mixture of sesquiterpene alcohols.
• Vetiselinenol and isovalencenol: oxygenated sesquiterpene alcohols reported in oils from several countries.
• Beta-vetispirene: a sesquiterpene hydrocarbon found in oil samples from different regions.

Laboratory and animal studies have reported the following actions for Khas root extracts and essential oil. Human clinical evidence is still limited.

• Antioxidant: may help protect cells from oxidative damage, based mainly on laboratory research.
• Anti-inflammatory: anti-inflammatory activity has been observed in cell and animal studies.
• Analgesic (pain-relieving): pain-relieving effects have been reported in cell and animal models.
• Antibacterial: laboratory studies have shown activity against some bacteria, including oral bacteria.
• Antifungal: antifungal activity has been reported in laboratory research.
• Anxiolytic-like (calming) action: calming effects have been observed in animal studies.

Khas may offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and may provide a cooling or calming effect. Its aroma has also been studied for relaxation, while early research has explored possible antibacterial and metabolic effects. Most evidence comes from laboratory, animal or traditional use, so benefits such as improved sleep, pain relief or blood sugar control are not established in humans.

Antioxidant Activity

Khas root extracts and oil have shown antioxidant activity in laboratory tests, which means they may help limit damage caused by free radicals in cells. This has been linked to compounds such as the vetivones (Kim et al., 2005). Evidence of these benefits in humans is limited.

Anti-Inflammatory and Pain-Relieving Potential

Khas root extract has reduced inflammation and pain responses in cell and animal studies (Chou et al., 2012; Lima et al., 2012). Traditionally, a cooling Khas paste is applied to the skin for comfort. Human trials are lacking, so Khas should not replace pain medicines advised by a doctor.

Antibacterial Activity

Vetiver essential oil has slowed the growth of some oral bacteria linked to gum disease in laboratory tests (Oliveira et al., 2022). This does not show that Khas can prevent infection in humans, and it should not be used on wounds in place of medical care.

Cooling Effect in Hot Weather

In Ayurveda, Khas is considered cooling (Sheeta virya) and is traditionally taken as a cold infusion or sharbat in hot weather (Tharindri & Kulatunga, 2025). This describes traditional use only. Clinical studies on its effect on body temperature are limited.

Calming Aroma for Relaxation

Inhaled vetiver oil has produced calming effects in rats and mice (Nirwane et al., 2015; Saiyudthong et al., 2015). Its earthy aroma is also used traditionally for relaxation. Evidence in humans is limited, and Khas should not replace medical advice for anxiety or sleep problems.

May Support Blood Sugar Control

Khas is traditionally valued for its cooling and calming properties, which may support general wellbeing but have not been established as a way to control blood sugar. Some studies suggest that its antioxidant compounds could have potential metabolic effects, but evidence in humans is limited. It should be used only as a supportive dietary herb, not as a replacement for standard diabetes treatment.

May Support Sleep

Khas is mainly used in aromatherapy for its relaxing properties. The soft-smelling yellow liquid formed by steam distillation of Khas’s roots may promote relaxation and support sleep, although evidence in humans is limited.

Disclaimer: These points reflect traditional use and laboratory or animal studies. They do not show that Khas prevents, treats or cures any health condition. Please speak to a registered medical practitioner before using Khas.

Khas (Vetiveria zizanioides), or the khas plant, has traditional uses related to relaxation, skin care and cooling. This cooling and calming effect, based on traditional use and early research, has led to its use for stress and other everyday health concerns.

1. Used for Pain Relief and Fever

Khas has both cooling and soothing properties and is traditionally used for headache and general discomfort. When used topically, Khas has shown anti-inflammatory activity in laboratory and animal studies. It can be easily prepared using a paste made from its roots. In traditional use, it is also used in cooling preparations for fever, but clinical evidence is limited. It is advised to consult a physician for the appropriate use and dosage.

2. Supports Skin Health

Khas is traditionally used in skin care and may have soothing properties. Being rich in antioxidants, it has shown antioxidant activity in laboratory studies, which may help limit oxidative stress. Khas oil is also used in some traditional and cosmetic preparations for skin care. However, claims that it can heal skin, reduce marks and blemishes, improve skin elasticity or act as a natural antibiotic are not established by sufficient human evidence.

3. Aids in Digestion

Khas has been traditionally used for digestive complaints. It may have a cooling and soothing effect, but evidence for its effects on digestion is limited. Scientific research on Khas for digestive health in humans is currently limited.

4. Helps Regulate Body Temperature

Among the various traditional uses of Khas (vetiver), it is particularly known for its cooling properties. Especially in areas with high temperatures, Khas is used in beverages to provide a cooling effect. The use of Khas even goes further in refreshments, for example, by adding its roots to water pots to help impart a cooling effect to the water. This may help provide a cooling and comfortable sensation in hot and humid regions.

5. Supports Respiratory Health

Khas oil is also traditionally used for its aromatic and cooling properties. It has been used mainly to support respiratory comfort, but evidence that it acts as an expectorant or clears respiratory congestion is limited. Khas, when inhaled, has not been shown in human studies to treat cough, congestion, asthma or other respiratory diseases. It should not replace medical treatment for breathing problems.

6. Potential Anti-Inflammatory and Pain-Relieving Effects

Khas has shown potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects in laboratory and animal studies. This matches the traditional use of Khas, which has been applied to help with joint pain, headaches, and muscle soreness. People have been using Khas in these ways based on long-standing practices for its soothing properties, but these traditional uses have not been established as proven treatments in humans.

Khas is a traditional herb, but some people need to take extra care. The precautions below apply to the root, the powder and the essential oil.

Seek Medical Advice Before Use

Speak to a doctor or registered Ayurvedic practitioner before using Khas during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in childhood, or if you have a long-term illness. The same advice applies if you take regular medicines, because safety data for these groups are limited.

Allergy and Skin Sensitivity

Allergic reactions are uncommon but possible. Stop use if redness, itching, swelling or a rash appears. Before using a diluted preparation on a larger area, apply a small amount to the inner forearm and wait 24 hours to check for a reaction.

Safe Handling of Essential Oil

Essential oil is highly concentrated and is meant for external use only. Dilute it in a suitable carrier oil before it touches the skin, and keep it away from the eyes. Do not swallow the oil, and keep the bottle out of the reach of children.

Drowsiness and Driving

Khas may cause drowsiness in some people. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you feel sleepy after using it, and take extra care if you also use alcohol or sedative medicines.

Confusion With Poppy Seeds

Some products and recipes use the name khus khus for poppy seeds, which are a different plant. Check that the label gives the botanical name Chrysopogon zizanioides or Vetiveria zizanioides before use.

Medical Care for Persistent Symptoms

Khas is not a substitute for medical care. See a doctor for fever, persistent cough, breathing difficulty, chest pain or severe stomach upset, and if any symptom lasts for more than a few days or becomes worse.

Khas is prepared in different ways for different purposes. The steps below describe traditional preparations for general information, and the amounts should follow the advice of a registered Ayurvedic practitioner or the product label.

Dried Root Powder

• Buy the powder from a reputable brand, and check the botanical name and expiry date on the label.
• Measure the amount advised by your practitioner or the label, using a clean, dry spoon.
• Mix the powder in a glass of water at room temperature, or as directed.
• Stir well and drink it immediately.
• Close the pack tightly and store it as described in the Storage section.

Cold Infusion (Hima)

• Wash a small piece of clean, dried root under running water.
• Place the root in a clean glass or earthen container filled with safe drinking water.
• Cover the container and leave it to soak for the time advised by your practitioner.
• Strain the water through a clean cloth or sieve.
• Drink the infusion on the same day, and discard the used root.

Skin Paste (Lepa)

• Mix fine root powder with a little clean water to form a smooth paste.
• Test a small amount on the inner forearm and wait 24 hours.
• If there is no reaction, apply a thin layer to the area, keeping it away from the eyes and broken skin.
• Leave it on for the time advised, then rinse with cool water.
• Stop use if redness, itching or burning occurs.

Essential Oil in Aromatherapy

• Check that the bottle contains vetiver essential oil and that the label gives the botanical name.
• For skin use, dilute the oil in a carrier oil such as coconut or almond oil, following the dilution recommended on the label or by a qualified aromatherapist.
• Test a small area of skin first and wait 24 hours.
• For a diffuser, follow the maker's instructions and use it in a well-ventilated room for short periods.
• Do not swallow the oil, and keep it away from the eyes.

Herbs Traditionally Used With Khas

In Ayurvedic texts, Khas (Ushira) is combined with other herbs in the formulation Shadangapana, which is a cold or warm infusion of six herbs (Tharindri & Kulatunga, 2025). The herbs in that combination are listed below for information only.

The suitable amount of Khas depends on age, health and the form used. The guidance below is general, and the final amount should be determined by a registered practitioner.

Children (Under 12 Years)

Khas is not generally advised for children unless a paediatrician or registered Ayurvedic practitioner recommends it. Essential oil should not be applied to the skin of young children or used in diffusers near them without medical advice.

Teenagers (12 to 17 Years)

Teenagers should use Khas only under the guidance of a doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner, who will decide the form and the amount. Follow the instructions on the label of any commercially prepared product.

Adults (18 to 64 Years)

No single dose suits every adult or every form. The amount depends on the form used, the person's health and the practitioner's advice. For commercially prepared products, follow the directions on the label and do not exceed them.

Elderly (65 Years and Above)

Older adults often take several medicines and may be more sensitive to drowsiness. A doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner should advise on the form and the amount before use.

Disclaimer: This is general information and not a prescription. Please consult a registered medical practitioner or Ayurvedic practitioner before taking Khas, particularly if you have a health condition or take other medicines.

Safety data on Khas in humans are limited. The effects below are those most often described or considered possible.

Skin Irritation and Allergic Reaction

Contact with the skin, especially with undiluted oil, may cause redness, itching or a rash in sensitive people. Stop use and seek medical advice if swelling or a spreading rash develops.

Drowsiness

Khas has shown sedative-like effects in animal studies (Nirwane et al., 2015), and some people may feel sleepy after using it. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you.

Airway Irritation From Concentrated Vapour

Strong vapour from essential oil in a closed room may irritate the nose or throat, particularly in people with asthma or other breathing problems. Use diffusers in a well-ventilated room, and stop use if coughing or wheezing starts.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

Get urgent medical help for swelling of the face or lips, difficulty in breathing, a severe rash, fainting or extreme drowsiness. Stop using Khas straight away.

No formal drug interaction studies on Khas in humans have been found. The cautions below are precautionary and based mainly on its possible sedative effects.

Sedatives, Sleep Medicines and Alcohol

Khas may add to the drowsiness caused by sleeping tablets, sedatives and alcohol. Speak to a doctor before combining them.

Anxiety, Epilepsy and Depression Medicines

Because Khas may have calming effects on the nervous system, consult a doctor before using it with medicines for anxiety, depression or epilepsy.

Opioid Pain Relievers

Opioid pain medicines also cause drowsiness. Using Khas at the same time may increase the risk of excessive sleepiness, so medical advice is needed first.

Other Prescription and Herbal Products

Tell your doctor or Ayurvedic practitioner about all prescription medicines, herbal products and supplements you use, so that possible interactions can be checked.

Disclaimer: This list is not complete. Do not start, stop or change any medicine without the advice of your doctor.

Storage of Khas

Correct storage helps keep Khas products fresh and suitable for use. The points below cover each form.

• Root and powder: Keep in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
• Essential oil: Keep in a tightly closed dark glass bottle, away from heat, light and the reach of children.
• Infusions and sharbat: Keep covered and refrigerated, and use on the same day.
• Before each use: Do not use if the product is past its expiry date, has a musty smell, or shows signs of mould.

• Khas, also called vetiver or Ushira, is the root of a grass that is used in Ayurveda mainly for its cooling properties.
• Laboratory and animal studies suggest antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and calming actions, but evidence in humans is limited.
• Common forms are the cold infusion, root powder, skin paste and essential oil, which should be used as advised by a practitioner or the product label.
• Essential oil must always be diluted, tested on a small area of skin and never swallowed.
• Drowsiness is possible, so take care when driving and when using sedative medicines.
• Khus khus is the Hindi name for poppy seeds, which are a different plant from Khas.
• Khas is not a treatment for any medical condition, and a doctor should be seen for persistent or serious symptoms.

 Disclaimer: This page gives general information about Khas and is not medical advice. It does not diagnose, prevent or treat any health condition. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before using Khas, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a health condition or take other medicines.