Vanilla: India’s Most Loved Aroma, Its Origins, Benefits & A Simple DIY Vanilla Extract Recipe

Vanilla is one of the most cherished flavours and fragrances in the world—warm, sweet, comforting, and deeply nostalgic. From desserts and bakery creations to perfumes, aromatherapy, skincare, and home fragrances, vanilla has become a universal favourite. But beyond its delightful aroma, vanilla is a powerhouse ingredient with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mood-enhancing benefits.

In India, vanilla cultivation has grown rapidly in recent years, especially in tropical rainforest regions. If you love using natural vanilla—whether in your food or skincare—understanding its origins and benefits helps you appreciate this precious spice even more.

Where Does the Best Vanilla in India Come From?

Vanilla (Vanilla planifolia) is a tropical orchid that thrives in humidity, shade, and rich organic soil. India is among the few Asian countries capable of producing premium vanilla beans.

1. Kerala (India’s Main Vanilla Belt)

Kerala is the largest producer of high-quality vanilla beans. The evergreen forests of Idukki, Wayanad, and Kollam provide the perfect climate.

Why Kerala vanilla stands out:
• Rich, intense aroma
• High natural vanillin content
• Carefully hand-pollinated and cured
• Long, oily, plump beans

Kerala remains the gold standard for Indian vanilla.

2. Karnataka (Coorg & Western Ghats)

In shaded coffee plantations of Coorg and Chikmagalur, vanilla flourishes alongside coffee and pepper.

Characteristics:
• Sweet, creamy fragrance
• Slightly fruity notes
• Well-cured beans with a round, balanced flavour

3. Tamil Nadu (Kodaikanal & Nilgiris)

These hill regions offer moderate temperatures and misty conditions ideal for vanilla orchids.

Beans from Tamil Nadu are known for:
• Smooth, delicate flavour
• Good moisture content
• A balanced aroma perfect for desserts

4. Andaman & Nicobar Islands

A newer but promising region for vanilla cultivation, thanks to its wild tropical weather. Beans from here are gaining popularity for their natural richness.

Health & Skin Benefits of Vanilla

Vanilla isn’t just delicious—it carries multiple therapeutic benefits.

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Contains vanillin, a powerful antioxidant that neutralises free radicals, supports skin repair, and slows early ageing.

2. Naturally Anti-Inflammatory

Calms redness and irritation, making it ideal for sensitive or inflamed skin.

3. Mood Enhancing & Stress Reducing

Research shows the aroma of vanilla helps lower anxiety and uplifts mood. This is why it’s widely used in candles, diffusers, and body mists.

4. Supports Gut Health

Pure vanilla extract can soothe digestive discomfort and reduce gut inflammation.

5. Antibacterial Properties

Helps inhibit the growth of certain bacteria on the skin, making it valuable in cleansers, soaps, and deodorants.

Culinary Uses of Vanilla

Vanilla adds warmth and depth to both sweet and savoury dishes.

You can use vanilla in:
• Cakes, cookies, muffins
• Custards, puddings, kheer
• Smoothies and shakes
• Hot chocolate and coffee
• Ice creams
• Fruit compotes and sauces
• Whipped cream
• Homemade ghee desserts
• Protein shakes

Pure vanilla always outperforms artificial essences.

How to Make Pure Vanilla Extract at Home

A simple, flavourful 3-ingredient recipe

Ingredients

• 4–6 whole vanilla beans (Kerala or Coorg recommended)
• 1 cup vodka (or rum for deeper flavour)
• Sterile glass bottle or jar

Method

1. Split the beans lengthwise, leaving the ends intact.

2. Place them inside the glass bottle.

3. Pour alcohol over the beans until fully submerged.

4. Seal tightly and shake.

5. Store in a cool, dark place for 6–8 weeks. Shake once a week.

6. It will deepen in colour and aroma over time. For best strength, rest for 3–6 months.

How to Use It

• Add to cakes, cookies, brownies, kheer, and smoothies
• Mix into frosting, custards, pancake batter, and chocolates
• Add to warm beverages for enhanced flavour

It lasts indefinitely because alcohol preserves it naturally.

Bring Home the Goodness of Pure Vanilla with Natuur

If you love warm, creamy, comforting vanilla, explore Natuur’s handcrafted vanilla-infused creations. Made with pure vanilla extracts and natural ingredients, they deliver both aromatherapy and skin-nourishing benefits.

Choose from:
• Vanilla Sandalwood Soap – grounding and aromatic
• Vanilla Soy Candles – calming ambience
• Vanilla Body Mists – long-lasting, uplifting fragrance

Each product reflects Natuur’s commitment to purity, simplicity, and natural goodness.

Experience Pure Vanilla Like Never Before

Wrap yourself in the warmth of real vanilla.
Shop Natuur’s vanilla-enriched products at www.natuur.in
Give your senses the luxury of pure, natural aroma every day.