The Story of Vanilla

Abstract

The legendary origin of Vanilla are tales of woe, but despite its cruel genesis, Aztec priests treasured the Vanilla pod because it contained zanat (nectar of the gods). Vanilla was accepted as royal tribute, and Moctezuma was reputed to drink enormous amounts of vanilla-flavoured chocolate daily. Introduced into France and popularized as aphrodisiac, vanilla also entered the diet of Elizabeth I. When her apothecary advised that vanilla could be added to almost any food item, the flavour became ubiquitous in condiments and drink and subsequently in perfumes. The commerce of Vanilla planifolia and its medicinal usage are summarized in this chapter. Other species with usage in various parts of the world are also described.