Usheera (उशीरा), commonly known as Vetiver or Khus, is a sacred and aromatic herb used extensively in Ayurveda for its cooling, grounding, and purifying effects, especially on the skin and blood. The name Usheera refers to its ability to cool down internal heat (ushna), making it one of the foremost Pitta-pacifying herbs in Ayurvedic dermatology.
Used in the form of root powder, decoctions, oils, and even fumigation, Usheera is ideal for hot, inflamed, and irritated skin conditions, as well as for enhancing complexion, reducing sweat, purifying the blood, and supporting a youthful glow.
Botanical Profile
- Botanical Name: Vetiveria zizanioides (now Chrysopogon zizanioides)
- Common Names: Usheera, Vetiver, Khus root
- Family: Poaceae (grass family)
- Part Used: Roots (aromatic and fibrous)
- Rasa (Taste): Tikta (bitter), Madhura (sweet)
- Virya (Potency): Sheeta (cooling)
- Vipaka (Post-digestive effect): Madhura (sweet)
- Guna (Qualities): Laghu (light), Snigdha (unctuous), Ruksha (dry)
- Doshic Action: Pacifies Pitta and Kapha, may increase Vata slightly if overused
Skin Benefits of Usheera
1. Cools and Soothes Heated Skin
Usheera is best known for its sheeta virya (cooling potency). It soothes heat rashes, sunburn, redness, prickly heat, and any skin inflammation due to Pitta aggravation.
2. Reduces Excessive Sweating and Body Odor
Its astringent and aromatic properties help manage sweat gland activity, reduce body odor, and are widely used in summer skincare and bathing routines.
3. Purifies Rakta Dhatu (Blood Tissue)
Usheera helps detoxify the blood by cleansing ama (toxins), making it effective in treating acne, eczema, boils, and other skin eruptions linked to internal heat or toxicity.
4. Improves Complexion and Glow
Regular use of Usheera, especially in decoctions and face packs, enhances the skin’s luster, softness, and helps balance pigmentation and discoloration.
5. Natural Rejuvenator
Though not a classical Rasayana, Usheera’s ability to support calmness, vitality, and skin clarity makes it a gentle rejuvenator, especially in hot or tropical climates.
Classical References
- Charaka Samhita: Mentioned as Varnya (complexion enhancer), Raktapittahara (blood cooling), and useful in Pitta vitiated conditions
- Sushruta Samhita: Listed under herbs used for Vrana (wound healing) and Daha (burning sensation)
- Bhavaprakasha Nighantu: Describes Usheera as refreshing, anti-inflammatory, and used in fumigation, bathing, and cooling drinks
External Applications in Skincare
Usheera is often used externally in summer formulations and sensitive-skin care:
- Cooling Ubtan: Usheera powder + sandalwood + rose petal powder
- Anti-Itch Paste: Usheera + neem + aloe vera gel
- Vetiver Facial Steam: A gentle steam with Usheera roots for oil-balancing and purification
- Summer Bath Blend: Usheera roots are soaked overnight in water and added to a morning bath
- Pitta-Calming Spray: Decoction of Usheera + rose + vetiver hydrosol mist
Internal Use in Ayurveda
- Usheera Kashaya (Decoction): Helps in managing skin heat, rashes, and Pitta-induced conditions
- Herbal Coolers (Sharbat): Infusions made from Vetiver roots soaked in water overnight, consumed in summer for skin detox and Pitta balance
- Usheera Churna: Rarely used directly as a powder internally, but can be added to skin teas and lepas
- Infused Water: Vetiver root bundles placed in clay pots or copper jugs for skin-friendly hydration
Ayurvedic Remedies Using Usheera
| Skin Concern | Home Remedy Idea |
|---|---|
| Prickly Heat & Rashes | Usheera + sandalwood + rose water paste |
| Sunburn Relief | Usheera decoction compress or cold mist |
| Excess Sweating & Odor | Vetiver root water for bath, or face splash |
| Redness & Itching | Usheera + aloe + neem leaf paste |
| Dullness & Heat Acne | Usheera + manjishtha + turmeric face mask |
Related Terms
- Twak Prasadanam (Skin Glow)
- Pitta Skin
- Rakta Dhatu
- Chandan (Sandalwood)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can Usheera be used daily on the skin?
Yes, especially in hot seasons or Pitta-dominant skin, Usheera can be used daily as a face mist, bath additive, or in face masks.
Q2: Is Usheera good for acne?
Yes. It cools inflammation, detoxifies blood, and reduces oiliness—making it helpful in managing heat-related or Pitta-acne.
Q3: How to make Usheera infused water at home?
Tie a small bundle of Vetiver roots and soak in a clay or copper pot overnight. Use this water as a face rinse, bath, or drink (if pure and organic).
Q4: Can Usheera be mixed with other herbs for skincare?
Absolutely. It blends well with Chandan, Manjishtha, rose, neem, and Aloe vera for customized cooling packs or detox teas.