In ancient times, vanilla was used to flavor an Aztec concoction. Its export to Europe began in 1520 by the Spanish researcher Hernán Cortés, thus promoting its reputation. Despite this, its cultivation was not possible in other countries, thus, Mexico remained for many years its largest producer and exporter. However, in 1841, a slave on the island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean discovered that the plant could be fertilized by human intervention. This discovery played a decisive role in expanding its cultivation worldwide.
Nutritional value of vanilla (in a percentage of 100 of the daily recommended dose)
100 grams of extract contain approximately:
Energy: 14%
Carbs: 10%
Potassium: 3%
Vitamin B2: 7%
Vitamin B3: 3%
Copper 8%
Manganese: 10%
Its health benefits are:
- It helps digestion
- Helps regulate menstruation and relieve symptoms such as abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, fatigue and mood swings
- Helps in weight loss
- It has an antioxidant effect
- It has an anti-inflammatory effect
- It has an antimicrobial effect
- Soothes sore throat, toothache and headache
- It has aphrodisiac properties
Sources:
https://corfutvnews.gr/i-aromatiki-vanilia-me-tis-therapeftikes-idiotites/
https://el.wikipedia.org/wiki/%CE%92%CE%B1%CE%BD%CE%AF%CE%BB%CE%B9%CE%B1
