Vanilla

September 12, 2023

Written By Four Scents Botanical

Botanical Name: Vanilla Planifolia

BENEFITS

Relaxing
Boosts Skin Health
Reduces Inflammation

Aroma: Creamy, Sweet and Warm.

A vine-like plant belonging to the orchid family, Vanilla is a natural extract of the vanilla bean rather than a distilled oil. Well known as a culinary ingredient, Vanilla essential oil has its own benefits.

Vanilla-Aroma

History: Vanilla is believed to have originated from Madagascar. However, it was the Totonacs people during the Aztec era who were the first to cultivate Vanilla in the mountains of Mexico. Calling it the black flower, they used it to flavour food and beverages. The Spanish explorers brought it to Europe, Africa and Asia in the 16^th Century, giving it the name Vanilla, which means “little pod”. It soon became a popular flavouring as well as a perfumery ingredient. Today, Vanilla is primarily cultivated in Madagascar, meeting 70% of the world’s demand!

BENEFITS

- Relaxing

- Boosts Skin Health

- Reduces Inflammation

Does Vanilla Encourage Relaxation?

Vanilla has a sedative effect, where it triggers a nervous system response that calms the mind. It stimulates the limbic system and helps the body release dopamine which soothes the nerves. It also boosts serotonin that uplifts the mood. Vanilla is also known to improve cognitive function and focus.

Vanilla-Relaxation

How Does Vanilla Boost Skin Health?

Vanilla contains skin-nourishing vitamin B6 and naturally occurring properties such as niacin, thiamine and pantothenic acid that help to combat blemishes. It is an excellent choice for mature skin too – being high in antioxidants, Vanilla helps prevent fine lines, wrinkles and age spots.

Vanilla-Skin Health

Can Vanilla Reduce Inflammation?

Vanilla’s sedative effects reduce the stress inflammation causes to the body. Its natural component, vanillin, has the highest antioxidant levels and has the power to help reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis as well as reducing general damage caused by inflammation – this can be in the form of allergies, infections or excess acid in the body.