Vanilla Absolute Oil

Derived from the beans of the vanilla orchid (Vanilla planifolia), vanilla is one of the most beloved and versatile flavours in the world. This well known spice has found yet another home in the natural fragrance blends of Beaverton’s handmade small batch bar soaps.

The history of vanilla dates back to ancient Mesoamerican cultures. Indigenous peoples of present day Mexico, such as the Aztecs and the Totonac, were the first to cultivate vanilla, using it to flavour their cacao-based drinks. When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they were introduced to vanilla by the Aztec emperor Moctezuma. Vanilla quickly became a sought-after commodity in Europe. At the time, it was initially used to flavour chocolate products which were being made from the cacao beans that had also been brought back from South America. By the 19th century deliberate cultivation of vanilla had become well-established, but the process faced challenges with pollination. It wasn’t until a breakthrough by a young enslaved man named Edmond Albius on the island of Réunion in the mid-19th century that a manual pollination technique was developed, allowing vanilla to be grown in a wider range of environments. This discovery paved the way for the global vanilla industry, which saw the cultivation of vanilla expand to numerous tropical regions around the world. Despite its widespread availability, the complex process of growing and curing vanilla has made it one of the world's more costly spices. 

In the culinary world vanilla is celebrated for its ability to elevate flavours, adding a rich and warm creaminess to both sweet and savoury dishes. Its use ranges from flavouring baked goods like cakes, cookies, and pastries, to infusing ice creams, custards, and sauces. In gourmet and mainstream food products alike, vanilla extract and vanilla bean paste are key ingredients prized for their flavour profile. Beyond the kitchen, vanilla plays a significant role in the fragrance industry where its soothing aroma is a cornerstone of countless perfumes and scented products. Vanilla’s comforting scent can be found in high-end perfumes and luxury candles, while also being used in the personal care industry to enhance products like soaps, shampoos, and lotions. Despite its high cost and the challenges associated with its cultivation, vanilla remains a cherished and indispensable ingredient across multiple sectors.

Vanilla’s beloved flavour and aroma are attributed to its rich array of natural compounds. Vanillin is the most abundant compound found in vanilla oils, and it is responsible for the elements of vanilla’s aroma that are most commonly associated with the plant. In addition to vanillin, vanilla beans contain a complex blend of over 200 other compounds that contribute to their depth and richness. These include the spicy smelling eugenol, and the somewhat smoky smelling p-cresol. Also found in vanilla are Acetic acid and formic acid, which contribute tangy notes, while small amounts of lactic acid enhance vanilla’s overall creamy character. Together, these compounds create a multifaceted and harmonious profile that makes vanilla so universally appealing. 

The aroma of vanilla lends a soothing and comforting quality to Beaverton’s naturally derived cold process soaps, engaging the senses and evoking a sense of indulgence. Each lather releases a gentle calming scent, offering a moment of tranquillity with every wash. Ideal for those seeking a touch of elegance and warmth in their skincare routine, vanilla scented natural soaps turn a simple daily ritual into an exquisite, aromatic escape.