Benefits of vanilla extract

Introduction

Vanilla extract is made from vanilla beans that come from one specific kind of orchids. They are native to Mexico and Central America, where they are cultivated and exported all over the world. Vanilla is used in cosmetics, especially for making perfumes, but it is also widely used in cooking. Many famous desserts owe their deliciousness to vanilla. Candles, potpourri, vaporizers, and other aromatherapy items with vanilla essence are among the most popular and they give a warm, sweet scent to many homes.

Most people have vanilla extract powder in their kitchen cabinets and they use it to add that precious flavor to their food, especially baked goods. However, not many people are aware that it has medical benefits as well.

Benefits of vanilla

Vanilla is know to be effective in treating nausea. Nowadays people have different medicines that are used for nausea but vanilla can be very effective and it is natural, which makes it suitable for persons who wish to avoid synthetic drugs. A simple home remedy for nausea can be made by adding just a few drops of vanilla extract to a glass of water which should be sipped slowly.

Persons who are trying to lose weight should know that vanilla is believed to have an effect on that as well. This quality of vanilla has not yet been proven scientifically but some people swear that its scent helps lose weight.

People who are exposed to stress and anxiety could benefit from vanilla as well. It has been proven that vanilla reduces stress levels and soothes the nerves so people who suffer stress on everyday basis should add a few drops of it to their milk or water. Eliminating stress and anxiety will reduce the risk of other conditions that are related to them so in that way vanilla is contributing to the general health and well-being.

Vanilla has been known to help with wounds and some cultures use it for this purpose for centuries, although the scientists are not sure that applying vanilla directly to an open wound or a burn is such a good idea.

Women who have problems with their menstrual cycle, like irregular or missing periods, can benefit from vanilla extract without having to use hormone therapy or birth control pills.

Vanilla extract certainly is not going to cure any major diseases but it will help with smaller problems like the ones mentioned above so it is good to know about it and to keep some of this sweet-smelling essence at hand.