The genus Vetiveria is one of the most versatile genera in plant species. The species produces odorous roots from which a precious essential oil is distilled and used in a variety of applications from perfumery to ethnopharmacology. The same roots give the plant particular characteristics that make it a valuable natural barrier against erosion. The book describes the anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, essential oil biogenesis and chemical composition, ethnopharmacologu and distillation, as well as the production of plants for oil exploration and for the use of Vetiveria as an ecological tool against erosion, flood, soil pollution and many other applications.