Perhaps one of the most recognized and beloved flavors in the world, vanilla oil emits a fragrance reminiscent of its delectable taste. Vanilla essential oil offers aromatherapeutic wellness benefits such as:
What is Vanilla?
One of the most recognized flavors and the second most expensive spice in the world, vanilla has a rich history of use both in culinary and wellness traditions. This perennial climbing vine sports its pale yellow lily-like flowers, which bloom for only a day and house the pods from which its rich aroma and delectable flavor are derived.
A member of the Orchidaceae family, Vanilla planifolia is native to Mesoamerica where it is believed to have been originally grown and cultivated by the Totonac people. When the Aztecs conquered the Totonac in the early 1400’s, the secret of this flavorful spice was swiftly adopted by their culture. Aztec kings demanded the pods as regular tributes from the Totonac people and the flavor was used to create Xocolatl, perhaps the original chocolate made from vanilla paste, cacao, chilies, honey and cinnamon.
Spanish conquistadors brought vanilla pods to Europe in the 16th century where it quickly gained sweeping popularity. It began as a delicacy only available to the wealthy and the royal. It is said that Hugh Morgan, apothecary to Queen Elizabeth I, began using it as a flavor in various wellness applications, expanding the flavor to the palates of the commoners. The French in particular revered the flavor and transplanted vanilla cuttings to their colonies in Madagascar, where the plant thrived. Today, 80% of the world’s vanilla is cultivated on this island!
Vanilla Essential Oil
The process of extracting vanilla’s fragrant essential oil is a lengthy one. To start, vanilla plants require manual pollination, a tedious process in itself. From there begins the cultivation of the green pods from the vanilla plant, which are first cured, then fermented and finally dried, producing the brown pods we are familiar with today. It is from these pods that the oil is extracted using a solvent method. Overall, the process takes at least 5 to 6 months to complete, which is in part why pure vanilla oil tends to be expensive. This is why Piping Rock happily offers vanilla oil as a blend with jojoba carrier oil!
When inhaling vanilla’s mellow, full-bodied aroma, it instills a sense of tranquility and warmth. It helps to gently ease occasional stress and tension, helping to lift the spirits and ignite the passions. Aromatherapists love vanilla oil for its ability to help soothe your mind into a deep rest, or spark your desires with potent passionate qualities!
Blending essential oils opens up a world of aromatherapy possibilities! Other oils that complement vanilla’s earthy-sweet fragrance include: amber, bergamot, citronella, cinnamon bark, cinnamon leaf, clary sage, clove, copaiba balsam, frankincense, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, lemon, mandarin, neroli, patchouli, rose, sandalwood, sweet orange, tangerine, vetiver, and ylang ylang oils.
Piping Rock 100% pure Vanilla Oil is available in 1/2 oz. bottles; Piping Rock blended Vanilla Oil is available in 1/2 oz. & 2 oz. bottles.
Vanilla Oil Directions for Use
Add 3-5 drops of Vanilla Oil to a diffuser or vaporizer, to a bowl of steaming water or a hot bath to fill a room with its scent. To use topically, add ~5 drops of Vanilla Oil to ~10 mL of any Piping Rock carrier oil.
Vanilla Oil is for external use only and should be diluted in a carrier oil such as sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed or avocado oil before being used topically. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Always consult your trusted physician before adding any essential oil to your regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medications. Discontinue use and alert your doctor should an adverse reaction occur. Keep out of reach of children and away from eyes and mouth. Essential oils are flammable.
