Vanilla essential oil-based bath salts.
Vanilla essential oil is extracted from the vanilla plant, native to Central America and Mexico, but also found in other tropical regions. Essential oils are so called because they come from the essence of the plant. Specifically, vanilla oil comes from the green fruit of the plant. The oil is commonly used in scented candles, body oil, and other holistic health or beauty treatments.
Vanilla essential oil.
The lengthy manufacturing process of vanilla essential oil makes it one of the most expensive oils to buy. However, it is versatile and blends well with other oils. Its aroma is sweet but neutral, which makes it good to combine with sandalwood, lavender, orange or lemon oil, to name a few.
The process of making this oil begins with the harvesting and drying of the fruits of the plant until they become a fragrant grain. The aroma of the bean is then extracted through a process that uses odorless fats. These fats are used to absorb odor.
A bottle of lotion containing vanilla essential oil.
The aroma is absorbed by placing the beans on the grill over the fat or mixing them with the fat. The fat is then placed in an alcoholic substance that draws the fragrance to it. After the alcohol is distilled, only the essential oil remains, and the oil is now ready to be bottled and shipped for sale. Vanilla essential oil should be stored in dark bottles to protect it. The oil will dissolve if placed in an aluminum bottle.
Vanilla essential oil is extracted from the vanilla plant, which is native to Central America, Mexico, and other tropical regions.
In holistic health practices, vanilla essential oil is considered an aphrodisiac, a sedative, a fever reducer, and an antidepressant. Its sweet scent often has a calming effect that reduces anxiety. Some of these attributes are not scientifically proven, but are based solely on anecdotal experience. Some people speculate that vanilla’s calming properties are also associated with comfort foods like ice cream or sugar cookies.
Vanilla essential oil is found in products such as candles, refreshing sprays, perfumes, body lotions, and bath salts, among others. Some of these products contain essential oil and others simply contain vanilla fragrance. This can also take the form of vanillin, a less expensive, artificial version of vanilla.
Care must be taken not to confuse vanilla essential oil used for aromatherapy purposes with vanilla extract used in cooking. Its consumption is generally not recommended. Depending on the blend of vanilla essential oil, it can even be harmful if ingested. Labels should always be checked to verify the intended purpose of the oil.