Vetiver vs Fo Ti Vine

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Vetiver

Chrysopogon zizanioides

Nervine

Fallopia multiflora

Nervine

Vetiver

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Fo Ti Vine

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

A tropical grass whose roots produce a deeply grounding essential oil, used in Ayurveda and aromatherapy for calming and cooling.

A climbing vine used in TCM whose stem (Ye Jiao Teng) is a milder alternative to the root for calming the spirit.

Active Compounds

Vetiverol, Khusimol, Isovalencenol, Vetivone

2,3,5,4-THSG, Emodin, Resveratrol, Lecithin

Traditional Uses

Fever reduction, Nervous disorders, Skin conditions, Cooling drink

Insomnia, Dream-disturbed sleep, Anxiety, Skin itching

Modern Uses

Anxiolytic (aromatherapy), Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, ADHD focus support (aromatherapy)

Sedative, Neuroprotective, Antioxidant, Vascular health

Adult Dosage

Aromatherapy: 2-3 drops in diffuser; Tea: 1-2g dried roots steeped

9-15g dried vine stem in decoction

Contraindications

Pregnancy

Liver disease, Pregnancy

Side Effects

Skin irritation (undiluted oil)

Drowsiness, GI upset

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E