Vanilla

Origin: India

Description: GRAS- The vanilla plant is derived from a specie of wild orchid that is native to Central America, Mexico and Tahiti. It is a perennial herbaceous climbing vine that can grow up to 25 meters (82 feet) high and produces clusters of white and yellow flowers. Once the pods of this orchid become ripe and cured, they will then extract the oil. This variety is a 10-fold bourbon; this refers to the concentration of the Oleoresin, and means it has been distilled 10 times using a solvent extraction.  Once the solvent is removed, the essential oil remains. This has 1.47% Vanillin constituent.
Oleoresin definition is a mixture of an essential oil and a resin, found in nature. Solvent extraction is used with the Vanilla bean because it is difficult to distill the sticky resin of the bean. Oleoresin Vanilla is offered because it is more affordable than the Vanilla Absolute.

Common Uses: Vanilla is considered a premiere sensual aphrodisiac. Beneficial as a nervous sedative, induces menstruation, calms emotions, eases tensions, anger, frustration, and brings warm memories. It’s properties are anti oxidant, aphrodisiac, anti carcinogenic, febrifuge, anti depressant, sedative, tranquilizing and relaxing.

Consistency: Medium

Blends well with: Bergamot, Grapefruit, Lemon, Mandarin, Orange, Sandalwood, Tangerine, and Vetiver. Vanilla 10 Fold is soluble in ethanol  and other essential oils only. It is immiscible in water and oil. Great for diffusing!

Aromatic Scent: Vanilla is one of the most well known scents. The oil has a rich, sweet, vanilla aroma, similar to vanilla extract.

History: The Totonacs of Veracruz, Mexico are credited as its first cultivators of vanilla bean. In the 1400’s The Aztecs showed the Spaniards how vanilla could sweeten their chocolate and perfume their cigars, and the long, dark vanilla beans became part of the Spanish empire’s rich colonial trade as early as the middle of the sixteenth century.

Cautions: No known toxicity Avoid high concentration in pregnancy. Avoid very high concentrations in skin care.  Also be careful to get on the clothing as it can cause discoloration.