Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is a popular flavoring agent derived from mature pods of the orchid Vanilla planifolia. It is used in a variety of foods and beverages and is also a preferred ingredient in perfumes, pharmaceuticals, and other products. Vanilla extract is LIKELY SAFE when consumed in amounts commonly found in foods. However, some people may be allergic to vanilla, and skin contact can cause irritation and swelling. Vanilla extract may cause headaches and sleep problems (insomnia) in people who manufacture it.
Studies have shown that both the flavor and aroma of vanilla can offer some health benefits, including reducing startle reflexes and providing relief from sleep apnea. A review of human and animal studies on the therapeutic use of vanilla, vanillin, and vanillic acid found that they have potential therapeutic benefits, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. In addition, vanilla derivatives as cosmeceutical ingredients could also provide therapeutic benefits in addition to providing fragrant and antioxidant effects.
There is no recommended dosage for vanilla extract. The appropriate dose of vanilla depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and other conditions. However, one teaspoon (4.2 grams) of vanilla extract contains small amounts of calories, protein, fat, carbohydrates, and sugar.
Imitation vanilla extract is often used as a substitute for vanilla extract because it is less expensive. Some vanilla extracts are diluted with less expensive extracts. However, vanilla extracts from Mexico have been diluted with tonga bean extracts, which contain a chemical called coumarin. Since 1954, the FDA has prohibited the use of coumarin in food.
Sources:
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-vanilla
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-206/vanilla
- https://www.rxlist.com/vanilla/supplements.htm
- https://draxe.com/nutrition/vanilla-extract/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7790484/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342896253_Vanilla_Potential_Health_Benefits
