The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Vanilla
The Power of Scent: Essential Oils

ORIGINS

Vanilla essential oil is derived from the dried brown pods of Vanilla planifolia, a climbing vine with trumpet-shaped white flowers related to the orchid. Because this oil is extracted using a solvent, it is technically an absolute, not an essential oil. It has a sweet, balsamic scent.

HISTORY/LORE

The Totonac people of the eastern coastal and mountainous regions of Mexico were the first to cultivate vanilla and were the world’s main vanilla producers until the mid-nineteenth century. The Spanish explorers who arrived in Mexico in the early sixteenth century gave the plant its name: The Spanish vainilla is a diminutive of vaina, meaning “sheath”—a reference to the shape of the seedpod.

USES

Healing Uses: Vanilla absolute is calming and comforting. It has a general relaxing effect on the mind and body and is commonly used to relieve stress, tension, anxiety, and panic attacks. It also has antidepressant qualities. Used in massage, vanilla absolute is a powerful aphrodisiac.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: This warming absolute dissolves anger and frustration, relaxes the mind, and fosters a sense of inner peace. It stimulates the sacral chakra, boosting self-confidence and encouraging intimacy. It also has a very sensual quality; use with a partner to deepen physical connection. In meditation, it brings the spirit into balance.