9 Surprising Health Benefits of Vanilla (2024)

FAQs

9 Surprising Health Benefits of Vanilla? ›

May offer antioxidant effects

Some of the compounds found in vanilla extract and beans have antioxidant effects, meaning they help protect against cell damage. For example, two of vanilla's phenolic plant components, vanillin and vanillic acid, have been researched for their antioxidant potential.

May offer antioxidant effects

Some of the compounds found in vanilla extract and beans have antioxidant effects, meaning they help protect against cell damage. For example, two of vanilla's phenolic plant components, vanillin and vanillic acid, have been researched for their antioxidant potential.

It promotes healthy digestion – drinking vanilla herbal tea has long been a popular natural remedy that instantly soothes gut inflammation, and helps with other digestion problems like cramping, stomach-ache and diarrhoea.

It has active compounds that stimulate the production of serotonin, also known as the happy hormone. It can help improve mood, reduce anxiety and promote a feeling of well-being. Studies have shown that the scent of vanilla can reduce anxiety, calm the nerves and promote relaxation.

When taken by mouth: Vanilla is LIKELY SAFE when taken by mouth in amounts commonly found in foods. However, some people are allergic to vanilla. It might also cause headache and sleep problems (insomnia), especially for people who manufacture vanilla extract.

Potential Side Effects of Vanilla Extract

Vanilla is considered to be a safe compound with minimal side effects of interactions. Toxicology studies on rats confirm that it is safe even at high levels, and there was no toxic effect on the kidney, liver, or blood cells.

Vanilla. Vanilla is another one of the more commonly known essential oils, especially for providing relaxation and stress-relief. Not only has it been shown to have sedative effects on the body, but it can reduce hyperactivity and restlessness, quiet the nervous system, and lower your blood pressure.

Short-Term Health Effects Of Drinking Vanilla Extract

Although desserts flavored with vanilla extract are typically sweet, the ingredient is harsh-tasting and bitter, which can cause stomach upset. The effects of drinking vanilla extract in large quantities can mirror that of alcohol intoxication.

The alcohol level of flavoring extracts like vanilla is enough to lead to central nervous system depression, just like if you were drinking hard alcohol. This means: You may start to feel your breathing slow down and grow more shallow. You'll also experience symptoms like dilated pupils and a warming sensation.

Yes. Vanilla extract is generally recognized as safe in amounts typically used in cooking.

Why is vanilla so addictive? ›

According to the British Medical Journal, “vanilla is highly addictive.” The active ingredient is linked to epinephrine and norepinephrine, also known as adrenaline and noradrenaline. That's funny, vanilla is often regarded as the plainest, most boring flavor, but it would seem this is far from the case.

Vanilla has calming effects on adults as well, reducing startle reflex. These results were based on a study done by Tubingen University in Germany. Vanilla also helps alleviate stress and reduce anxiety, which is why it is often used in aromatherapy.

Vanilla has a warm, sweet scent that is often associated with comfort and relaxation. Studies have shown that vanilla can have a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety while promoting a sense of well-being.

Inflammation Reduction

Vanilla has been used for centuries in various forms to help relieve inflammation, particularly of the liver. Good news for sufferers of gout, arthritis, and other conditions.

Both vanillin and vanillic acid are approved food-flavoring agents. Some traditional medicinal uses of vanilla include treatment for fever, spasms, dysmenorrhea, blood clotting, and gastrointestinal (GI) distress. In the 18th century bce, vanillin was even used as an Old World mortuary offering.

But beyond the aroma, vanilla's compounds, particularly rich in antioxidants, protect hair from environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays, maintaining its strength and shine. The B-vitamins in vanilla also play a crucial role in promoting hair growth and reducing hair breakage.

Vanilla essential oil helps balance hormone levels while reducing stress, helping to relax, stabilize mood and reduce nervous tension. Prevents the growth of cancer cells Vanilla oil has anti-cancer properties, inhibits the growth of cancer cells, because this oil acts as an antioxidant and prevents oxidation.

Further research reveals that “vanillin possesses several beneficial effects for human health, such as antioxidant activity in addition to anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, anti-metastatic, and anti-depressant properties.”

Vanilla has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and calm irritated skin. Anti-bacterial. Vanilla has been used to reduce skin infections and in wound healing. Vanilla Bean Extract contains Vanillin, a polyphenol with powerful anti-oxidant properties.

Vanilla is also rich in antioxidants, helping rid your body of free radicals and slow aging. Magnesium -- Vital mineral, balancing, relaxes nerves, increases “good hormones” like dopamine & serotonin. Overall it's very calming to the nervous system and good for heart health.