Exploring the Unique Aroma of Rooh Afza: The Role of Vetiver Root

Rooh Afza, an iconic concentrated syrup, is renowned for its distinctive floral and herbal aroma. This article delves into the key ingredient that gives Rooh Afza its characteristic odor, highlighting the vitiver root, a crucial component in this iconic product.

Introduction to Rooh Afza

Rooh Afza is a decoction based on several herbs, spices, and plant-based ingredients, with the vetiver root playing a pivotal role in its unique scent and flavor. Although the syrup contains a range of ingredients, including fruits, herbs, and spices, it is the roots of the vetiver plant [1] that give Rooh Afza its distinct odor.

Vetiver Root: The Key Ingredient

The vetiver root, known in Ayurveda as Khus, is crucial in creating the distinct odor of Rooh Afza. This root can be found in bundles in Ayurveda stores across India. People often soak these roots in water to infuse a cooling, refreshing flavor, which can be re-used multiple times until the flavor diminishes. Similarly, the vetiver root is used in the production of Rooh Afza, where it contributes a unique depth to the syrup's aroma.

Other Ingredients and Their Role

Rooh Afza is a complex mixture of herbs, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and roots. The relaxing properties of the syrup come from its various components, and the key items in this chilling drink include purslane and orange, as well as multiple other fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Discovery and Manufacturing

The iconic recipe of Rooh Afza was discovered by Hakeem Hafiz Abdul Majeed, a prominent Unani physician. The syrup is manufactured by Hamdard Waqf Laboratories Pakistan and Hamdard Wakf Laboratories India. Since 1948, the company has been producing Rooh Afza in both Pakistan and India. Other companies use the same un-patented recipe in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.

Health Benefits of Vetiver Root

The vetiver root, apart from contributing to the aroma of Rooh Afza, is known for its antiseptic and cooling properties. It can be used in skincare products and is believed to have a cleansing effect on the body. People often add vetiver root to sugar syrup to make Khus Syrup, which is a key component of Rooh Afza.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while multiple ingredients contribute to the distinctive aroma of Rooh Afza, the vetiver root stands out as the key component that gives the syrup its characteristic odor. Its unique properties make it a significant part of the overall scent and flavor profile of this beloved herbal syrup. Understanding the role of vetiver root in Rooh Afza not only highlights an important aspect of its composition but also underscores the historical and cultural significance of this iconic drink.