Good news: Vanilla is freaking awesome for you.
No, I’m not talking about artificial flavorings of vanilla you taste in commercial ice cream (sorry), but organic vanilla bean, essence, and extract.
Here are eight more reasons (in addition to its amazing smell and taste) to incorporate vanilla into your diet:
- It contains anti-aging properties: Vanilla is a rich source of antioxidants, which prevents — and even reverses skin damage caused by free radicals. As such, vanilla helps reduce wrinkles and age spots.
- It’s great for your skin: In traditional medicine, vanilla has been used to heal skin abrasions, as well as acne, due to its antibacterial properties.
- It can help treat anxiety and depression: Vanilla’s scent, specifically, has been proven to have a positive effect on anxiety and depression sufferers.
- It relieves nausea: Vanilla is known to calm an aggravated stomach. Simply add a few drops of vanilla extract to a glass of water, and sip slowly.
- It’s rich in B vitamins: Vanilla contains niacin, thiamin, Vitamin B6, and pantothenic acid — all of which promote healthy hair, skin, and nails.
- It’s beneficial to your teeth: Vanilla contains a pain-relieving chemical called capsaicin (also found in chili peppers) which has been cited to relieve toothaches.
- (Women) It can treat menstrual problems: Vanilla helps regulate menstrual cycles.
- (Men) It contains aphrodisiac properties: Since ancient times, vanilla has been a cited aphrodisiac, used to cure impotency. Its aroma, which induces feelings of pleasure and satisfaction, has been proven to boost testosterone levels in men.
So, what are you waiting for? Get some organic vanilla powder and make yourself a smoothie!
