Botanical Name: Vanilla Planifolia BENEFITS OF VANILLA ESSENTIAL OIL RelaxingBoosts Skin HealthReduces Inflammation AROMA OF VANILLA ESSENTIAL OIL: 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. HISTORY OF VANILLA ESSENTIAL OIL 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 16th 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 OF VANILLA ESSENTIAL OIL - Relaxing - Boosts Skin Health - Reduces Inflammation Does Vanilla Essential Oil 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. How Does Vanilla Essential Oil 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. Can Vanilla Essential Oil 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. HOW TO USE VANILLA ESSENTIAL OIL Aromatherapy – Add to a diffuser to create a calming atmosphere. Massage – Add to a base oil to soothe muscles and joints. Bath – Add to a dispersant to help promote sleep. Hair Care – Add to a base oil and massage into scalp as a hair mask to help improve hair texture. Skincare – Add to a base lotion or oil to treat inflamed or irritated skin. Candles and Soaps – A suitable base note for blends. HELPFUL LINKS Spring Vitality Range
