In Ayurveda, vetiver is revered as one of the most cooling herbs. Rather than simply flavoring water, this traditional practice is to allow the life force and cooling qualities of the root to gently infuse into the water over time. Vetiver-infused water has been used for centuries during the hot seasons to help pacify Pitta dosha, support hydration, cool the body, calm the mind, and subtly aid digestion.
This is the perfect companion to complement our Pitta Pro-aging haircare infused with cooling herbs vetiver, sandalwood and jatamansi so you can stay balanced from the inside-out/ outside-in. The taste is subtle, fragrant and makes drinking water a medicinal experience!
Ingredients
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A small bundle (about 10grams) of clean, dried vetiver roots
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2 liters of fresh drinking water
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glass vessel
Preparation
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Rinse the roots thoroughly. (If needed)
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Wash the dried roots under cool water several times to remove dust or soil.
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Some practitioners briefly soak and discard the first rinse.
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Tie the roots together (optional).
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Traditionally, the roots are tied with natural cotton thread so they are easy to remove.
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Place the roots into the water.
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Add the bundle to the vessel containing 2 liters of drinking water.
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Allow the water to infuse.
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Leave it overnight. Strain.
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The water gradually develops a delicate earthy, woody aroma.
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Drink throughout the day.
- Keep the water in the glass vessel in the refrigerator.
- The roots can often be reused for a second infusion.
Traditional Seasonal Use
This preparation is especially enjoyed during:
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Late spring
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Summer
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Early autumn
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Hot, dry climates
It is considered particularly beneficial for people with excess Pitta, such as those experiencing:
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Feeling overheated
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Irritability
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Excess sweating
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Acidity
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Heat-related skin flare-ups
Optional Enhancements
Combine vetiver with other cooling herbs, such as:
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Rose petals
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Fennel seeds
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Coriander seeds
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Sandalwood (when food-grade and appropriate)
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Cardamom
These combinations are usually prepared according to the season and the individual's constitution rather than as a fixed recipe.
The Ayurvedic Philosophy Behind It
In Ayurveda, water is viewed as more than hydration it is a carrier of the qualities of the substances with which it comes into contact. Infusing water slowly with whole herbs allows their subtle energetic qualities to be transferred gently, without the intensity that can come from boiling. Vetiver contributes qualities that are considered:
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Cooling
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Grounding
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Stabilizing
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Aromatic
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Pitta-pacifying
Because the infusion is gentle, the water remains light and refreshing while carrying the herb's cooling essence.
A note of caution
Vetiver-infused water is generally considered safe when prepared with clean, food-grade vetiver roots intended for culinary use. Avoid using roots that have been treated with pesticides or are sold only for decorative or fragrance purposes and always source from reputable suppliers. As with any herbal preparation, people who are pregnant, have significant medical conditions, or take medications should consult a qualified healthcare professional before using it regularly.