The Vanilla plant produces pods that are picked when they are dark green in colour and ripe. These pods are sun-dried to create what we know as “Vanilla Beans” which are then fermented to procure Vanilla extract. This Vanilla extract has a sweet taste and a rich, aphrodisiac scent, which is the reason it is used in baking, aromatherapy and skincare.

The Vanilla extract or essential oil is known to have many benefits beyond its taste and fragrance including it being an anti-oxidant and anti-depressant. Vanilla extract neutralizes free radicals and oxidants and is also known as a stress reliever and calming agent in Ayurveda. Traditionally, drinking Vanilla flavoured water is also known to reduce inflammation.