Khas-Khas, a densely tufted grass, is found throughout the plains and lower hills of India. It grows wild on the riverbanks and in rich marshy soil. The culms are arising from an aromatic rhizome. The grass is stout and stands up to and over 2 m. The leaves are narrow, erect, keeled and glabrous. The inflorescence is a panicle of numerous slender racemes in whorls on a central axis.
It is widely used in perfumes and cosmetics, and for scenting soaps. It can be also used to remove excess heat from the body and giving a cooling effect. It is also known as Vetiver and Sugandhimula.
