Monday, February 28, 2011

Vanilla

Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) is a vine like plant native to Mesoamerica whose pods or "beans"are used both as a flavoring and as an herbal medicine. While many people know of vanilla's famous delicate and unique fragrance and taste not many know of its medicinal properties.
Vanilla has been harvested in Mesoamerica since precolumbian times and has been used medicinally to help alleviate a fever and also for those women who suffer from amenorrhea (or lack of menstraution).  Additionally vanilla is also used as a mild relaxant for those people who suffer from lots of stress.

Vanilla beans can be made infused and drank as a tea.Given the fact that vanilla beans are the second most expensive flavoring agent it is more cost effective to make an alcohol tincture in order to get the most medicine out of the beans.

Photo acquired from: http://www.ozmadeiracakes.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/vanilla-beans.jpg




Ashta Nemanha Nuiknew!