Vanilla essential oil: all the benefits for your health
Beyond its captivating fragrance, vanilla hides unsuspected therapeutic treasures. The benefits of vanilla essential oil are remarkable: accelerated healing, powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These precious extracts even protect our nervous system while soothing body and mind.
Vanilla absolute and supercritical CO2 vanilla extract: products with multiple benefits
Vanilla hides unsuspected therapeutic treasures. I reveal to you the secrets of these precious concentrates and their benefits for your daily well-being.
Vanilla absolute and supercritical CO2 vanilla extract have healing properties.
Did you know that the benefits of vanilla essential oil go far beyond its captivating scent? The absolute and CO2 vanilla extract remarkably accelerate wound healing. I have observed that these extracts stimulate cell regeneration and promote the formation of new skin tissue.
These precious extracts contain vanillin, an active compound that soothes skin inflammations. You can apply them on small cuts, minor burns, or irritations. Their natural antiseptic action also prevents infections, thus protecting the skin during its healing phase.
These extracts are notably anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective.
The anti-inflammatory power of these vanilla extracts is impressive. They reduce swelling and relieve joint pain. I particularly appreciate their rapid action on skin inflammations like eczema or insect bites.
Their antioxidant properties effectively fight free radicals responsible for cell aging. Vanilla also protects our nervous system thanks to its neuroprotective compounds. Recent studies show it could even help prevent certain neurodegenerative diseases. A true treasure for your overall health!
How to use vanilla absolute and supercritical CO2 vanilla extract?
These extracts offer amazing versatility. Discover their various applications to fully enjoy the benefits of vanilla essential oil.
Topical use for their healing and anti-inflammatory effects.
Topical application remains the most direct method to benefit from vanilla’s reparative properties. Always dilute these extracts in a vegetable oil such as sweet almond or jojoba. A ratio of 5 drops of extract per 10 ml of vegetable oil is generally sufficient.
Gently massage the affected area twice a day to optimize results. I have noticed that the skin absorbs these mixtures quickly without leaving a greasy film. For skin inflammations, create a compress by soaking a clean cloth with your mixture and apply it for 15 minutes on the painful area.
Oral use to enhance antibiotics.
Vanilla naturally strengthens the action of antibiotics. One drop of supercritical CO2 vanilla extract in a spoonful of honey or on a neutral tablet can amplify the effectiveness of your medical treatment.
However, be careful: always consult your doctor before combining these extracts with your medications. I recommend limiting this use to a maximum of 5 consecutive days. The oral benefits of vanilla essential oil usually show quickly, with a better response to conventional treatments.
Diffusion for their relaxing effects.
The captivating scent of vanilla soothes the mind and calms nervous tension. Pour 5 to 8 drops of vanilla absolute into your diffuser to transform your interior into a peaceful haven. The effect is immediate on mood and stress levels.
For mild insomnia, diffuse these extracts 30 minutes before bedtime. You can also make a pillow spray by mixing 10 drops of extract in 100 ml of water and one teaspoon of alcohol. I use this method during periods of intense stress, and the results are amazing!
Use of vanilla absolute in cooking
Vanilla transcends the simple therapeutic dimension. It invites itself onto our plates for the greatest pleasure of our taste buds.
The absolute flavors creams, desserts, ice creams, and sweet-salty dishes.
Vanilla absolute concentrates all the benefits of vanilla essential oil in an ideal form for cooking. Its intense aroma instantly transforms your ordinary desserts into gastronomic creations. I love incorporating it into my crème brûlées and panna cotta to give them that little extra soul.
Sweet-salty dishes also benefit from this vanilla touch. Try adding a drop of absolute to a sauce for duck or chicken. The contrast between the sweetness of vanilla and the flavor of the meat creates a surprising taste harmony. Your guests will surely ask for your secret!
A few drops are enough to enhance a dish.
The aromatic power of these extracts is extraordinary. A single drop of vanilla absolute equals the aroma of an entire pod. Always start with very small quantities—literally the tip of a toothpick dipped in the extract.
Here are some ideas I have tested and approved:
- Half a drop in your pancake batter for a gourmet breakfast
- A quarter of a drop in parmesan risotto for an exotic note
- One drop in your homemade jams to intensify fruity flavors
- A tip in your fruit salad vinaigrette
Vanilla absolute pairs particularly well with red fruits, chocolate, and exotic fruits. Let your creativity speak!
Precautions and contraindications of vanilla extracts
Despite their many benefits, these extracts deserve some precautions for use. Your safety remains paramount.
Contraindicated for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, asthmatics, and epileptics.
The benefits of vanilla essential oil do not apply to everyone. These extracts contain powerful compounds that can cross the placental barrier or pass into breast milk. Future mothers and those who are breastfeeding should therefore abstain.
Asthmatic individuals risk worsening their symptoms, especially during atmospheric diffusion. As for epileptics, some compounds can potentially trigger seizures. I always recommend consulting a healthcare professional before any use if you belong to these categories.
Use with caution by respecting dosages.
Even for people without contraindications, caution remains necessary. Vanilla extracts are highly concentrated and can cause skin reactions if overdosed. Always perform a skin test before first use.
For this test, apply a diluted drop in the elbow crease and wait 24 hours. If no redness or irritation appears, you can use the product. Never exceed the recommended doses, especially orally. Vanilla remains a precious ally for your well-being, provided you respect it and use it wisely.
Take care of yourself
The benefits of vanilla essential oil are waiting for you! Choose an application that speaks to you and start today. Your body deserves this natural softness. One drop is enough to transform your daily life.
Amanda
Also read:
- Wellness massage with essential oils: complete guide for optimal relaxation
- Indian Ayurvedic massage: release your body from accumulated stress
- Mindfulness meditation exercises: practical guide for beginners
FAQ
What is the difference between vanilla essential oil, absolute, and supercritical CO2 vanilla extract?
Vanilla essential oil does not exist because distillation does not allow extraction of aromatic compounds from the pods. The absolute is obtained by solvent extraction followed by their elimination. Supercritical CO2 extract uses pressurized carbon dioxide as a solvent that then evaporates. These two methods preserve the aromatic and therapeutic compounds of vanilla.
How to choose between vanilla absolute and supercritical CO2 vanilla extract?
Vanilla absolute offers an intense and authentic fragrance, ideal for perfumery and cooking. Supercritical CO2 extract contains more active compounds and has a more complete aromatic profile. Choose the absolute for its gourmand scent or the CO2 extract for its stronger therapeutic properties. The CO2 extract is also purer as it contains no solvent residues.
Where to buy vanilla absolute or supercritical CO2 vanilla extract?
These vanilla extracts are found in specialized aromatherapy shops, high-quality herbalists, and some pharmacies. Specialized essential oil and aromatic extract websites also offer these products. Always check the quality and origin of the product; favor organic extracts and suppliers who specify the provenance and extraction method.
Why are vanilla absolute and CO2 extract not essential oils?
These products are not essential oils because they are not obtained by steam distillation. Vanilla does not contain enough volatile compounds to produce an essential oil. The absolute is obtained by solvent extraction, while the CO2 extract uses pressurized carbon dioxide. These methods capture the aromatic and therapeutic compounds of vanilla.
Can vanilla extracts be used on animals?
Vanilla extracts must be used very cautiously on animals. Their metabolism differs from ours and some compounds can be toxic for them. Always consult a veterinarian specialized in aromatherapy before any use. Cats are particularly sensitive to aromatic extracts. Prefer very low dilutions and limited applications if their use is approved by a professional.
