Number 19 - Vanilla

Taken from the genus Vanilla, an Orchid subgenus.


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.

Number 6 - Silphium

The first historical entry for the blog is the ancient Silphium plant. Its seed were used as currency in the North African town of Cyrene. A possible member of the now extinct Ferula genus or as a type of Giant Fennel. Its identity is unknown.

It was used as a method to cure many aliments, such as fevers, aches and pains, but it was also used as a form of contraception, similar to the modern use of 'the Pill'.

Its seeds were shaped like elongated hearts, and it is possible this is the origin of the heart symbol we use today.

A coin from Cyrene depicting a Silphium flower and stalk. (Source:1889 edition of Principal Coins of the Ancients. Wikipedia) 

Number 2 - Horny Goat Weed

For our next herb, we'll look at something a little less unconventional - Horny Goat Weed, or Epimedium Sagittarium.

This plant is a natural aphrodisiac, first realised when goat herders in China saw their goats becoming more sexually active when the herb was present in the fields.

It is used to increase libido and improve fertility chances. 

Usually taken in tablet form similar to Viagra, but can also be taken in a tea.

An example of a product containing Epimedium. (Source Unknown. Product of OPTIMA)