I discovered vetiver, like many of us, through perfumery, this root being a noble raw material having inspired many perfumers.
I found it in Mali in the bride's porridge (see The True Taste of Mali page 98 and the porridge recipe page 113), or as an infusion alone. Its woody, resinous notes with hints of myrrh and slightly liquorice are fresh and enveloping.
It is traditionally used by women on the African continent for its emmenagogue effects. It is also said to have aphrodisiac properties. It is also one of the plants cultivated in Africa, but also in Asia, to stabilize soils, limit erosion, and purify water thanks to its highly developed root system full of essential oils.
This vetiver, locally called khamaré or gongolili, comes from Mali, sourced by Maïmouna Kanté of Maison Kanthé .
Before infusing, rinse the vine under running water to remove any dust.
