Vanillla Essential Oil : Benefits, Uses, DIY, Safety

Sweet and enticing scent (and a flavorful ingredient found in many desserts around the world), vanilla essential oil is commonly used in sweet-scented perfumes as well as skincare.

In the aromatherapy world, it is known widely for its ability to uplift moods, improve sleep quality, boost skin health, and even act as an aphrodisiac.

Read on to understand why this essential oil is so popular.

What Is Vanilla Oleoresin Essential Oil?

One of the most popular essential oils among enthusiasts today, the scent of Vanilla Planifolia is often described as creamy and sweet.

A staple in bakeries, dessert bars, and commercial kitchens worldwide, pure vanilla is often used as a flavor enhancer and is known as the salt of the baking world.

Dating back to the 1400s, vanilla is native to Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

At its peak, it was used in almost everything from sweetening drinking chocolate to adding flavour to cigars.

Today it is also grown in Asia as well as the Oceana regions because of its stable year-round climate.

An essential oil harvested by eliminating solvents from pure vanilla extract, this extraction method is used to ensure the highest vanillin content and helps bring out the “essence” of the plant’s scent as well as its mood-boosting, skin-moisturizing properties, and anti-inflammatory properties. It serves as a natural remedy against several ailments.

History of Vanilla Essential Oil

Vanilla can be traced back to the early civilizations of Meso-America which comprised the regions belonging to the Northern parts of South America, Central America, and Mexico.

It was one of the several spices used in cooking for its distinct taste.

It traversed its way through different civilizations before ending up in Europe after the Spanish defeated the Aztecs.

The cultivation of vanilla later became popular throughout the world.

Currently, 70% of the world’s vanilla demand is met by Madagascar.

It is extracted through labour-intensive and process-intensive steps and is hence one of the most expensive essential oils.

About Vanilla Plant

Vanilla beans are obtained from the species of vanilla orchid called Vanilla planifolia.

This plant is native to Mexico but is commercially grown in countries including Indonesia, Caribbean Islands, and Madagascar.

The greenish-yellow flowers of the plants are hand pollinated to get a steady flow of fruits.

Chemical Properties

The chemical compounds present in vanilla oil are vanillin, vanillic acid, acetic acid, piperonal and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid.(1)

Name	Vanilla Essential Oil
Botanical Name	Vanilla Planifolia
Native to	Mexico and Belize
Properties	Aphrodisiac, sedative, antioxidant, antidepressant, febrifuge, relaxant
Main ingredients	Vanillin, vanillic acid, acetic acid, piperonal and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid
Aroma	Sweet, floral and spicy
Blends well with	Neroli, peppermint, spearmint, sandalwood, lemon, orange, and chamomile essential oils
Category	Spicy
Substitute	Benzoin resin oil or Peru Balsam oil

15 Vanilla Oleoresin Benefits

For a plant with a host of benefits, picking one would simply be too hard. So we have taken the liberty to provide you with a quick guide to better understand the benefits that stand out the most when using vanilla oil.

Stimulates Romantic Feelings

A natural aphrodisiac, vanilla essential oil’s sweet and enticing scent is great for getting in the mood for romance.

Diffusing it in the bedroom will help relax the atmosphere and set the mood for romantic nights with your beloved. This mood will be amplified when the oil is blended with lavender essential oil.

Relax Minds & Reduces Anxiety

Vanilla oil is imbued with calming properties that help relax the mind and reduce anxiousness.

Diffuse it around living spaces after stressful days to relax and make the most from rest times. Vanilla along with other concentrated oils, even fragrance oils, is natural remedies for reducing stress and anxiety.

It is also proven to lower early cases of depressive disorders. Research and clinical trial have shown that inhaling the aroma of these oils stimulates the limbic system and regulates the hormonal presence in the body.

Vanilla has a calming effect on the mind, and a relaxed mind encourages a restful night’s sleep. It is a sedative that can be applied on sheets and bedding to encourage a restful ambience.

However, make sure to avoid contact with eyes. The right way to blend and diffuse the oil can be learnt for an aromatherapist.

Elevates Skincare Products

A potent skin-nourisher, the best vanilla oil for any skin type is packed with naturally occurring properties like niacin>, thiamin, and pantothenic acid.

These properties help keep sensitive skin free of acne as well as defend the skin from free-radical damage.

Mood Booster

When used in aromatherapy, vanilla essential helps the body release dopamine which soothes the nerves and uplifts the mood. It also regulates and balances the hormone levels in the body.

For, instance, it lowers the level of stress causing serotonin in the body which automatically improves mood. Vanilla blends are also used in diffusers to enhance. Vanilla with peppermint oil diffused via an oil diffuser not only improves the mood but also opens the respiratory tract.

Deodorizer

Vanilla oil has a sweet creamy aroma. It is used in the incense industry, perfumery, and cosmetics for its pleasant fragrance.

Febrifuge

Vanilla has a febrifuge property, which means that it has the capability to reduce fever. Vanilla oil can be diluted and rubbed on the forehead and throat, or it can be consumed orally.

Antibacterial

The antibacterial property of vanilla is useful in treating wounds and stopping infections. It is also used in face washes to remove bacterial growth and prevent acne.(2)

Antiviral

It has ingredients that are antiviral in nature. The oil can be applied on the body externally or its aroma can be inhaled to prevent and treat viral infections. Minor infections can be dealt with by using this oil, however in case of major infections this concentrated oil acts as a supplemental treatment.

Can be Antimutagenic

It may have antimutagenic properties due to the presence of the compound vanillin. However, more research is needed to determine how it can be utilized.(3)

Reduces Convulsions

Stomach spasms or convulsions are caused by indigestion, dehydration, or flatulence. Muscle convulsions are due to muscle contraction.

By applying or inhaling the aroma and flavor of vanilla oil, convulsions are reduced, the digestive tract functions normally and the discomfort becomes bearable.

Do not use vanilla oil internally unless recommended by a physician.

Slows Down Ageing

Vanilla is not a one-bean magic pill that slows down aging. But, there are certain factors in the body and outside of it that hastens the aging process of the body, particularly the skin.

Oxidative stress resulting from free radicals is the main culprit in speeding up aging. Slowing down the aging process is one of the pivotal uses of this oil obtained through the solvent extraction method.

Better Skin Health

Vanilla oil contains thiamin, Vitamin B6, niacin, and other B Vitamins that are essential for healthy skin. Add vanilla oil to soaps and bath salts to enrich skin health. Mix the undiluted oil from the bottle with fractionated coconut oil and apply to the skin

Finally, Get Smooth Silky Hair

A popular blend of vanilla oil, almond oil, and shea butter is applied to the hair to get soft, silky, and shiny hair.

Lower Blood Pressure

Vanillin, the main compound in vanilla extract, has been shown to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can help lower blood pressure and improve circulation. Vanilla oil also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect against heart disease and other chronic conditions.

Prevents the Growth of Cancer Cells

Vanilla essential oil has been shown to be effective in preventing the growth of cancer cells. A recent study found that vanilla essential oil was able to inhibit the growth of cancer cells by up to 98%.

Vanilla essential oil can kill cancer cells without harming healthy cells.

The anti-cancer effects of vanilla essential oil are due to its high concentration of vanillin. Vanillin is a compound that has been shown to kill cancer cells in laboratory studies.

Vanilla Oleoresin Oil Uses

The oil of Vanilla is widely used by aromatherapy enthusiasts today because of its crowd-pleasing scent as well as skin-nourishing properties.(4)

Depending on how and where it is applied, vanilla essential oil can significantly improve your daily life.

It Helps Set The Mood

The aromatic vanilla essential oil exudes a sweet and creamy scent that helps reduce stress within the atmosphere and ambiance.

Diffusing it around living spaces can instantly usher in a welcoming atmosphere that helps make the house feel more like a home as you unwind from the stresses of the day.

The aroma of vanilla is reminiscent of ice cream, cakes, baked goods, and confectioneries. It invokes fond memories in people and feelings of nostalgia and happiness. The oil that can be blended with vanilla to evoke positivity is lavender oil. The floral aroma of the lavender oil blends well with the sweet vanilla fragrance and fills the room with an intoxicating scent.

4 Uses of Vanilla Oil on Skin

1. It May Help Minimise Signs Of Ageing

Great for reversing skin damage, vanilla oil is rich in antioxidants so it neutralizes free radicals and the damages caused by them. Free radicals lead to oxidative stress which reduces the elasticity of the skin making it look dull.

The antioxidant nature of the oil neutralizes the excess free radicals in the body and restores the elasticity of the skin.

These properties make vanilla oil a wonder to help slow down signs of aging for long-lasting youthful skin. Vanilla oil is mixed with jojoba oil and massaged into the skin to reduce the symptoms of excess free radicals.

2. Treats Acne

Organic Vanilla has compounds with antibacterial properties. It can be applied regularly on the skin to clean the skin and prevent any acne outbreaks. It is blended with ylang-ylang or neroli oil as well for skin health.

3. Soothes Burns

Anyone who has ever shaved and applied aftershave lotion will attest to the fact that for a brief time it stings really bad. Vanilla has soothing properties and can be applied before and after shaving to minimize the shaving effect.

4. Promotes Skin Health

Vanilla oil is replete with nutrients including Vitamin B variants (niacin, and Vitamin B6). Applying this oil regularly on the face maintains skin health. Furthermore, the antioxidant properties of the oil protect the face from wear and tear.

A simple DIY home scrub can be prepared and rubbed on the face every night. It can be added to a tub with bath salts or topically applied for glowing skin.

3 Uses of Vanilla Oil on Hair

1. Silky Hair

Vanilla oil can be mixed with other ingredients or everyday hair oil to get smooth silky and shiny hair. A recipe with vanilla oil, shea butter, and almond oil is quite a popular hair oil blend.

2. Thicker Hair

Vanilla oil is an astringent that causes the hair follicles to hold on to the hair tighter. It also stimulates the flow of blood through the scalp causing hair to grow faster and thicker. It is used as an ingredient in several hair care products.

3. Hydrates Skin

This is especially useful for those with dry scalp and brittle hair. Applying the oil of vanilla along with carrier oil keeps the oil hydrated for a long time.

Other Uses for Vanilla Oil

It May Treat Food Poisoning

The compounds or active ingredients present in vanilla oil have antiviral and antimicrobial properties that are effective in removing pathogens from the gut and preventing any infections and disorders related to the stomach.

The topical application of this concentrated oil regulates the digestive system and maintains stomach health. The ideal mix for gut health would be a blend of vanilla oil, ginger oil, and lemon oil along with carrier oil. Ginger and lemon are known to improve digestion.

It’s An Alluring Aphrodisiac

Besides smelling amazing, vanilla essential oil’s scent also helps boost libido in both men and women by stimulating the production of oxytocin, the love hormone.

It is a great addition to spice up your love life for more intimate moments together. Reminiscent of baked gods, its aroma activates the limbic system and causes the blood flow in the body which is essential for romantic endeavors.

How To Use Vanilla Oleoresin Oil

There are many ways to experience the many benefits of vanilla essential oil.

Some people do it through inhalation, while others incorporate it as a topical ointment or through diffusion.

Here’s how you can get the most out of this sexy scented oil.

Vanilla Oleoresin Oil In An Aroma Diffuser

Though it is perfectly normal to inhale the scent of vanilla oil directly from the bottle, diffusing it into the air via a vaporizer/diffuser is a more effective way to calm and relax atmospheres.

Here’s how you can use vanilla oil with a diffuser.

Set it up according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Place it at least 2 feet above the ground to get the full benefits.
Fill the tank with filtered water to reduce mineral buildup and prolong the life of your diffuser.
Don’t skimp on the concentrated oil! Remember, adding more oil makes the scent last longer. Most people add about 3 to 15 drops per 100ml of water.
Experiment and mix & match essential oils to tailor your own unique blend of scents.
Take time to explore your own diffuser and find a spray setting that suits your fancy.

Vanilla Oleoresin Oil For Hair

Want to get rid of split-ends and remedy hair loss?

Vanilla essential oil is perfect for strengthening the hair and boosting blood flow to the scalp, leaving your hair nourished and strong.

Here’s a simple way to craft your own vanilla-infused DIY hair growth tonic:

Ingredients and Instructions:

15—20 drops of vanilla essential oil
1 cup of coconut milk

Simply combine the ingredients in a bottle and apply it to your hair and scalp for 15 minutes. Wash off with a mild shampoo and voila! Sleeker locks of healthier hair as well as a soothed scalp are all yours!

Vanilla Oil Any Skin Conditions

Vanilla Essential Oil For Dull Skin
Loaded with B-Vitamins crucial for maintaining healthy skin, the vitamin and antioxidant content in vanilla essential oil helps protect the oily skin from environmental pollution that makes it dull and dry.

Harnessing the skin restoring benefits of vanilla oil is quite simple; just add 2—3 drops to your daily face wash or lotion to even out and brighten skin tone.

Vanilla Oil To Fight Bacterial Skin Infection

Minor scrapes and scratches where the skin has broken need extra care and attention.

You definitely do not want to leave yourself or your loved ones open to infections!

Vanilla essential oil is imbued with properties like eugenol, vanillin, and hydroxybenzaldehyde, which are potent bacteria fighters that help combat infections.

Make your own skin disinfectant by dripping 2—3 drops onto a cotton ball and rub wherever your wound is or where your skin is broken. Apply it twice a day until your skin has healed.

Vanilla Oil for Other Uses

Vanilla Body Oil

This non-greasy soothing vanilla oil locks in moisture, thereby hydrating the skin.

When applied on a regular basis, it also does away with skin pigmentation.

It should be massaged to the skin at night and washed away in the morning.

Vanilla Lip Balm

This vanilla-flavoured lip balm is replete with Vitamin E and shea butter that moisturises the lip and makes it plush. It can be applied anytime.

Restful Vanilla Linen Spray

Made with natural vanilla essential oil, this is a perfect air freshener. It can also be sprayed on linen including pillow covers, bed sheets and other fabrics.

It can be sprayed in the bathroom to remove foul smells and in the bedroom to get quality sleep.

Vanilla Scented Dryer Balls

These dryer balls can soften the clothes and remove static from it. Place a couple of dryer balls on the cloth shelf.

Romantic Vanilla Perfume

Perfect vanilla perfume sets the mood for a romantic evening.

Moisturising Salve

Apply the vanilla-scented moisturising salve on the skin to maintain its moisture and get fresh glowing skin.

Vanilla Sugar Scrub

For extra soft skin, rub the sugar scrub on the arms, feet, neck and face and allow it to soak for a few minutes before washing it off.

How to Make Vanilla Essential Oil?

Cold Infusion Method

Vanilla oil is extracted via the cold infusion method by slitting the tahitian vanilla beans and submerging them in a jar filled with neutral flavoured alcohol such as vodka, gin or rum.

The jar is then sealed tight and stored in a dark place for about a month.

When the pungent alcohol smell is replaced with the sweet scent of vanilla, it is ready to use.

Hot Infusion Method

Dried beans are added to olive oil and heated to 150 0C.

The ideal mixture should be half a cup of beans mixed with a little over one litre of olive oil. Leave the mixture to cool.

The entire process takes about six to seven hours.

Safety When Using Vanilla Oleoresin Oil

Purchasing Essential oils are great for self-care routines. However, we should also take care and follow caution when using them to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe from their side effects.

Generally, essential oils are safe, but a few guidelines must be followed to avoid any adverse effects. Also, the oils are different and made up of different compounds. Some people may be allergic to certain compounds while others may be allergic to others.

Concentrated oil must be bought after careful deliberation. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind.

Read the label and instructions to make sure you’re using the oil correctly.
While buying essential oils be wary of the terms fragrance oil, perfume oil, and natural identical oil.
The term pure essential oil can be widely seen on bottles. These may be made from substandard sources.
Ensure that you are not allergic to any ingredients or compounds in the oil.
Make sure to dilute the essential oil in a carrier oil for safe application.
Do not add too much oil to the diffuser.
Avoid using essential oils for sensitive areas like the eyes and nose.
Don’t apply it on broken skin either unless it’s mentioned on the bottle or label.
Keep it out of reach of kids and fur kids.
Do not diffuse the oil near kids and pets. Consult a doctor before doing so.
Some oils may make you sensitive to sun damage, so be sure to load up on SPF.
Check the label to see if the oil is photo-toxic.
Always do a small patch test before topical application.
The common unwanted effects caused by essential oils up on topical application are rashes, redness and swelling.
If you show signs of irritation, stop use and consult a health professional.

Recommended Vanilla Essential Oil Products

Seeking to harness the benefit of vanilla essential oil to uplift your everyday life? There is no better place to do so than our online store. So add our vanilla essential oil to your check out cart here.

WE RECOMMEND

Vanilla Essential Oil

Frequently Asked Questions

How well does vanilla essential oil burn in a candle?

Vanilla oil is added to wax to make vanilla scented candles. It burns well like other scented candles.

How to make vanilla oil?

· Collect vanilla pods and cut them in small pieces.

· Soak it in any oil, preferably olive or almond oil.

· Store it in a jar for at least three weeks.

· Shake it occasionally. · Strain the oil and store in a cool dry place.

How to use vanilla oil for skin?

If vanilla oil is applied on the arm, take three to five drops of vanilla oil and add it to one and half tablespoons of carrier oil (coconut oil or any preferred oil) and massage it on the skin till it is absorbed. It can be applied at night and left overnight.

Does vanilla essential oil smell like vanilla?

Vanilla oil has an aroma reminiscent of vanilla. It will remind you of your favorite cake or ice cream.

Can vanilla extract be used as an essential oil?

Generally vanilla extract is not used as a replacement for vanilla oil. However, in the event that you run out of vanilla oil, you can use it topically. Do not add it to a diffuser as the scent may not be as strong and it may leave a sticky patch.

What does vanilla essential oil do?

Vanilla oil when used in aromatherapy helps beat negative emotions, anxiety, stress and depression. When applied on the face it fights against bacteria and prevents acne and gives the skin a glow. It is applied on the forehead to bring down temperatures while suffering from fever. It is diffused in a room to up the ante on romantic endeavors.

What essential oils blend well with vanilla?

Some of the oils that blend with vanilla essential oil are chamomile, neroli, lavender, orange, lemon and sandalwood.

What is vanilla essential oil good for in a diffuser?

Vanilla essential oil is added to the diffuser and used in aromatherapy to lower blood pressure and heartbeat rate. It lowers anxiety and stress and even early stages of depression. It has a calming effect on the mind and body and induces sleep.

What other oil can i use instead of vanilla essential oil?

Benzoin resin oil and Peru balsam oil can be used instead of vanilla oil.

What is vanilla essential oil used for?

What is vanilla essential oil good for?

Some of the therapeutic benefits of vanilla essential oil are - tranquilizer antidepressant, aphrodisiac and antioxidant. The oil is good for treating several ailments bothering the human body, but it is mainly diffused in aromatherapy to battle anxiety, stress and depression.

Where to purchase vanilla essential oil?

You can purchase vanilla essential oil at Gya Labs. While buying essential oils you should verify the authenticity of the product. At Gya labs you can check the English and Latin names of the product, verify the source of the product and learn about the essential oil most suited for your needs.

4 Sources

Benefits of Vanilla Essential Oil: Uses, DIY, Safety-Gyalabs

Table Of Contents