Vetiver

I discovered vetiver, like many of us, through perfumery, this root being a noble raw material that has inspired many perfumers. And I found it again in Mali in the bride's porridge (see Le Vrai goût du Mali page 98 and recipe for porridge page 113), or as an infusion alone. Its woody, resinous notes reminiscent of myrrh, and slightly licorice are fresh and enveloping.

It is traditionally used by women on the African continent for its effects emmenagogues and 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, from its local name khamaré or gongolili, comes from Mali sourced by Maïmouna Kanté of Maison Kanthé