Vanilla pods are very popular in cooking. They hold a sweet smell. In old wives tales, they were said to be good for sexual drive and a remedy for fevers. Although these methods have never been proven, the extract can increase levels of adrenaline being released into the body.
97% of all vanilla used is imitation vanilla due to the expense of real vanilla. This chemical will not give the exact same health effects or the same scent. It is claimed to not taste as nice, either.
Vanilla is popular in ice cream. It is also popular in deserts, perfumes and in aromatherapy.
Vanilla pod & flower.
