What is Vanilla Essential Oil made of?
Vanilla Essential Oil originates from the seed pods of the Vanilla planifolia, a species of vanilla orchid. This fascinating plant is native to Mesoamerica, but the majority of the world's vanilla is now primarily grown in Madagascar and Réunion.
The beneficial properties of Vanilla Essential Oil can be attributed to its primary compound, vanillin, which is known for its calming and antidepressant effects. Other beneficial compounds include p-hydroxybenzaldehyde, acetic acid, furfural, and caproic acid.
- Latin Name: Vanilla planifolia
- Main Country of Origin: Madagascar
- Scent Note Type: Base note with a rich, sweet, and warm aroma
- Most Popular Usage: Aromatherapy and Perfumery
What are the benefits of using Vanilla Essential oil?
Vanilla Essential Oil offers several potential benefits:
- Mood Enhancer- It has a calming effect and can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Sleep Aid- It promotes better sleep by creating a peaceful atmosphere.
- Antioxidant Properties- It can help protect the body from wear and tear by neutralizing free radicals.
- Aphrodisiac- It's known to stimulate senses and boost libido.
How to use Vanilla Essential Oil?
- Aromatherapy: Add a few drops to a diffuser to create a warm, welcoming ambiance in your home or office.
- Topical Treatment: Dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to your skin for its antioxidant benefits.
- Perfumery: It's commonly used in perfumes due to its rich, sweet scent.
How to combine Vanilla Essential Oil with Carrier Oils
Common carrier oils to use with vanilla essential oil include jojoba oil, almond oil, and coconut oil. Simply add 2-3 drops of Vanilla Essential Oil to a tablespoon of your chosen carrier oil.
To make a diffuser blend, add 4-5 drops of Vanilla Essential Oil to the recommended amount of water in your diffuser.
Research based on Vanilla Essential Oil
"The antioxidant activity of Vanilla, saffron and their mixture in sunflower oil." (2009, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)**: The study suggests that vanilla essential oil has potential antioxidant properties.
"Vanillin: Synthetic flavoring from spent sulfite liquor." (2005, USDA.gov)**: This report provides a comprehensive overview of the commercial production and applications of vanillin, the primary component of vanilla essential oil.
"Aromatherapy in the Management of Psychiatric Disorders: Clinical and Neuropharmacological Perspectives." (2006, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)**: The study suggests that aromatherapy, including the use of vanilla essential oil, can have a positive effect on psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Vanilla Essential Oil safe for all skin types?
A: Yes, but it should always be diluted with a carrier oil. A patch test is recommended for first-time users.
Q: Can I ingest Vanilla Essential Oil?
A: It depends upon whether the manufacturer has produced the oil to be ingested or purely for topical and aromatic purposes. For example, Avivni's Vanilla Essential Oil has organic and purity certifications, however, we still don't recommend ingesting essential oils without consulting a physician (or holistic physician) simply because every person's body reacts differently.
Q: Is Vanilla Essential Oil safe for pets?
A: Cats and dogs are very sensitive to essential oils and many are even harmful or poisonous to them. Diffusers for aromatherapy should be placed high up and not near food and water bowls. There are products especially formulated for pets that have been vetted for safety and diluted to the appropriate strength and we suggest you stick with these. We recommend always checking with a holistic veterinarian before using an essential oil product on your pet.
Q: Can Vanilla Essential Oil be used during pregnancy?
A: Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any essential oils during pregnancy.
Q: Does Vanilla Essential Oil have a shelf life?
A: Yes, it's best to use it within 2-3 years of opening.