Botanical Overview
Vanilla planifolia is a member of the Orchidaceae family, commonly known as vanilla, flat-leaved vanilla, or vanilla orchid. The plant is native to Central America and Mexico and widely cultivated in Madagascar and other tropical regions. The medicinal part used is the bean pods, which are primarily known for their aromatic and culinary uses.
Energetics
Vanilla planifolia has a warming temperature and neutral moisture energetics. Its taste is sweet and aromatic, and it functions as a tonifying agent in traditional herbal medicine.
Primary Actions
- Flavoring
- Mild Antioxidant
- Digestive aid
Indications
Western
- Digestive discomfort
- Nervous tension
- Fatigue
Syndromes
- Mild digestive upset
- General debility
TCM
No traditional TCM uses documented.
Ayurveda
No documented specific syndromes or symptoms.
Unani
No documented specific syndromes or symptoms.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Key phytochemicals include vanillin, vanillic acid, and p-hydroxybenzaldehyde, which contribute to vanilla’s characteristic aroma and mild antioxidant properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Extract with 0.01-0.03% vanillin concentration used primarily for flavoring
- Traditional vanilla bean infusions as digestive tonic
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe in culinary and moderate medicinal use; rare allergic reactions possible. Insufficient data on safety in pregnancy or lactation; caution advised.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers documented.
Selected References
- Vanilla planifolia Medicinal Uses and Properties – PFAF Database
- Vanilla planifolia: Monograph – WHO (2004)
- Vanilla – Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects (2011)