The Sweetest Secret: Top 5 Uses for Vanilla Extract that's not for cooking.
Vanilla extract - this magical little bottle of flavor is a staple in every kitchen across the world. It is a classic ingredient for any baker, dessert maker, or home cook looking to add a little sweetness and depth to their recipe. What many people don't know is that this simple ingredient has some incredible uses outside of the kitchen too. In this blog post, we will share with you the top 5 uses for vanilla extract that you might not have thought of before.
Refresh Your Home - One of the most amazing benefits of vanilla extract is its ability to remove unpleasant odors in your home. Simply mix a few drops of vanilla extract with water in a spray bottle and use it to spritz around the house. Vanilla extract will leave a warm and inviting aroma in your living room, bedroom or kitchen.
Relieve Stress and Anxiety - The scent of vanilla extract is proven to have calming effects on people. The sweet, pleasant scent of vanilla extract can ease stress and anxiety levels, especially for women during their menstrual periods. Simply add a few drops to a diffuser or a cotton pad and inhale the intoxicating aroma.
Sooth Burns and Itches - Vanilla extract is rich in antioxidants, which can help soothe and heal burns and itches. Mix vanilla extract with cold water and dab on the affected area using a cotton ball or a cloth. The anti-inflammatory properties of vanilla extract can also provide relief from other skin ailments like eczema, psoriasis or rashes.
Make Your Own Perfume - Instead of buying costly chemical-filled perfumes, why not DIY your own natural fragrance using vanilla extract. Mix a few drops with almond oil or distilled water and spray it on your skin for an all-natural sweet scent that is perfect for any occasion.
Alleviate Toothache - If you are suffering from a toothache or gum pain, vanilla extract can help ease the discomfort. Apply a small amount to the affected area using a cotton swab. The anti-inflammatory properties of vanilla extract can help reduce swelling and provide relief for your painful gums.
Vanilla extract is much more than just a flavoring ingredient that you use in your baked goodies. Its health benefits and uses outside of the kitchen are many and varied. From its natural scents that can refresh your home and alleviate stress, to the healing properties for burns and skincare, to DIY perfume and pain relief- vanilla extract is a versatile ingredient that you need to keep on hand in your kitchen as well as your medicine cabinet.
Which of these uses for vanilla extract would you try first?