Nowadays, vanilla has become a term used to describe something basic, and if you are chronically online, you associate it with that Jack Harlow song. That being said, describing vanilla as basic could not be further from the truth. This timeless scent has universal appeal and the ability to pair well and be a vessel that carries other fragrances and flavors! It also enhances other smells while creating a pleasant atmosphere that does not smack one in the face. When it comes to vanilla fragrance, there is a storied past and wonderful undertones that we will explore here.
The Historical Significance of Vanilla
Let’s start with that storied past we mentioned. Vanilla has been on the scene since the Aztec and Totonac people’s times (who, might we add, were the first to farm it). The Aztecs certainly enjoyed vanilla, too. They used it to flavor their chocolate drinks. When the Spanish conquistadors came and saw how much the Aztecs liked vanilla in their food, they took vanilla to Europe. When they did, it became a much sought-after flavoring. Vanilla production was a long and complex process in those days. That made it a rare and expensive spice. Eventually, though, the expansion of the trade route made vanilla more accessible. Thanks to that, the world enjoys vanilla as one of the most loved fragrance notes today.
The Composition of Vanilla Fragrance
The main ingredient that makes vanilla so unique as a fragrance is called vanillin. This vanilla compound is responsible for the vanilla scent developed from the vanilla bean. It has this creamy, sweet, and softly spicy scent that blends so well with a touch of everything else. In perfumery, vanilla is often part of the fragrance base. The thing about that vanilla scent is it has staying power, and it is steadfast as an ingredient, being able to play well with other scents without fighting. That is why, be it in the factory mixing process or body mixing process, aka layering on your body, it can partner well with, say, woody or amber notes of the fragrance family.
The Psychological Impact of Vanilla Fragrance
Of course, there is a health bonus to the vanilla scent! This health benefit is of the mental kind in the form of a mood boost. A fragrance like vanilla envelops ropes in all the senses by not only smelling great but also helping you feel good too! Studies prove that the scent of vanilla reduces feelings of stress and anxiety. Along with it, the familiarity of the gentle vanilla scent can bring on warm feelings of comfort and enhance relaxation. The vanilla fragrance is suitable as a home fragrance as much as it is good for personal scent. Either way, vanilla will bring on the relaxing effects you want.
Tips for Choosing and Using Vanilla Fragrance
Vanilla fragrances come in a number of variations. Some are heady; others are blended and very intricate with different notes. Be sure to spray any perfume on your skin before purchasing, as a fragrance has the ability to develop differently depending on an individual’s body chemistry. When it comes to home, purchase long-lasting, high-quality candles and diffusers.
Before you start thinking that vanilla is basic, consider it only earned that moniker because it has been around for a while and is pliable and plays well wherever its placed. This definitely makes it not basic but timeless and a staple that you know will be there and will be faithful for a long time to come.