To treat various ailments, not only chemical medicines can be used, but also medicinal plants. While vanilla has gained greater notoriety in the kitchen, it is at the same time a medicinal plant whose effects can usually be used without risks.
Occurrence and cultivation of vanilla
Most people are familiar with the fruit pod only as a spice. The vanilla originates from Central America. In particular, it is native to Mexico. It was first mentioned in a publication in 1754 by Philip Miller. The German name of vanilla is based on the Spanish name, which refers to the presence of the spice in the form of a pod. The plant reached Europe via Spanish colonies, but was used for medicinal purposes by the Mexicans many years earlier. The vanilla plant is a climbing orchid that grows on trees or stakes. The tendrils have lianas that are about 2 to 3 centimeters thick and have differently shaped leaves. Fruit capsules grow from the flowers after pollination and open once they have matured. Within the fruit capsules are seeds of the vanilla plant. Observations have shown that the climbing orchid blooms for the first time only after four years and thus serves as a source of spiced vanilla. At the same time, the plant is found more often in semi-shaded places with a warm and humid climate. For optimal use of vanilla, the fruit capsule is harvested before it is fully ripe. Through further processes, it develops its typical aroma.
Effect and use
The application is done in different ways. Most people are familiar with the fruit pod only as a spice. If it is used as this, it can also develop its healing abilities. Accordingly, for medicinal purposes, vanilla can be deliberately added to food. While the spice is mainly used in sweet dishes, it can also be easily integrated into savory meals. The effect of seasoning with the medicinal plant promises to be gentle. Another possibility is the production of a tincture. This can be produced independently, without the need for major tools. The vanilla bean is cut into small pieces with a sharp knife and then placed in a tightly sealed jar. The pieces are filled with grain or spirit of wine and left to rest for one to two weeks. After this period, the tincture can be used. Before that, just remove the plant residues and put the liquid in a dark jar so that they are protected from the sun. If the tincture is too concentrated, it can be diluted by adding water. It is recommended to take 10 to 50 drops. Another application possibility is hidden in homemade vanilla sugar. A vanilla pod cut into small pieces is placed in a jar with sugar and left to infuse for 1 to 2 weeks. Fruit capsules whose pulp has already been used for other purposes are also suitable for this purpose. In addition, vanilla can be used externally in the form of oil. Especially in winter, teas with the effective aroma of the plant are popular. For this purpose, a fresh pod is more suitable than usual tea mixtures. The ingredients of vanilla have germicidal properties, which provides relief from skin complaints. Furthermore, it affects the nervous system and emotional life, which gives it an aphrodisiac effect. Decisive for its properties are the ingredients catecholamine, alkaloids and vanillin. The part of the plant that can be used for medicinal purposes is limited to the fruit capsules and especially the seeds found in the pods. Leaves and stems of the orchid should not be consumed.
Health significance, treatment and prevention.
Vanilla can be used for various ailments. For example, men with potency difficulties resort to the plant. Its aphrodisiac effect is said to reduce discomfort in sexual life without the use of chemical drugs. At the same time, the plant is said to have relaxing and calming properties. For example, it has been used since the 17th century for existing sleep disorders. Another important medical aspect of vanilla is its use in skin disorders such as eczema or neurodermatitis.Its ingredients allow it to actively fight fungus, germs and other pathogens, thus supporting the healing process. In case of digestive problems, vanilla can be considered as a digestive aid. It helps with mood swings and irritability as well as menstrual cramps or muscle weakness and rheumatism. Its choleretic ingredients ensure better production of bile, which can alleviate existing biliary weakness. Pregnant women are also often recommended to use vanilla for vomiting. As with all ailments, however, it is important to use real vanilla and not artificial substances. Apart from the known areas of application, research is now being conducted into the effect of vanilla on serious illnesses. The main focus here is on cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Ultimately, the healing properties of vanilla are aimed at treating standing ailments. In contrast, they are not suitable for preventive therapy. Nevertheless, the efficiency of vanilla is often underestimated or its effectiveness is reduced to cuisine and taste. Yet it represents an alternative to conventional medicine without causing side effects. Furthermore, under normal circumstances, consultation with a doctor is not necessary. Only in the case of chronic health problems, it may possibly be advisable to consult a medical professional before starting the therapy.
