Vanilla Beans

Biological Source: - Vanilla Planifolia

Family: - Orchidaceous

Vanilla is a flavor derived from orchids of the genus Vanilla, primarily from the Mexican species, flat-leaved vanilla. Vanilla is the second-most expensive spice after saffron, because growing the vanilla seed pods is labor-intensive. Despite the expense, vanilla is highly valued for its flavor. Vanilla grows as a vine, climbing up an existing tree (also called a tutor), pole, or other support. It can be grown in a wood (on trees), in a plantation (on trees or poles), or in a "shader", in increasing orders of productivity. Its growth environment is referred to as its terroir, and includes not only the adjacent plants, but also the climate, geography, and local geology.

Vanilla is classified as below :-

1. Bourbon vanilla or Bourbon-Madagascar vanilla
2. Mexican vanilla
3. Tahitian vanilla 
4. West Indian vanilla

Culinary uses of Vanilla

1. Used as a flavoring agent
2. Mostly used as a flavoring agent for Ice creams
3. Also acts as a flavor enhancer for caramel, custard coffee and so on

Nutritional Benefits of Vanilla

Vanilla contains below nutritional benefits:-

1. Vitamins

• Niacin: 0.425 mg
• Vitamin B2: 0.095 mg
• Vitamin B5: 0.035 mg
• Vitamin B6: 0.026 mg

1. Minerals

• Copper, Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, Manganese, Phosphorus and Zinc

Other Uses

1. Used as Aphrodisiac.
2. Used in the treatment of Fever and aroma therapy.