The sweet smell of vanilla can actually lift your spirit and help you relax. Most people just associate vanilla with good feelings. Vanilla is also known to heighten sexual arousal.

Since vanilla is one of the world’s most expensive spices, synthetic vanilla is often used as a substitute. While synthetic vanilla is less expensive, it does not offer the health benefits as natural vanilla.

Here are 3 areas in which smelling vanilla has benefits.

Mood enhancer. The warm, soft and caring scent makes you feel uplifted, relaxed and sensuous. Medical experiments show that vanilla fragrance reduces stress and anxiety.

Calming effect. Research shows that vanilla has a calming effect on newborns born prematurely who smell vanilla before and during a blood test. The smell of vanilla also lessens crying in newborns. Smelling vanilla have calming effects on adults too. It can reduce startle reflexes and also provide some relief from sleep apnea, a sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts.

Human pheromones. The molecular structure of natural vanilla fragrance is similar to that of human pheromones. It's also proven that the scent increases sexual arousal in men.

Incorporating the inviting aroma of vanilla into your intimate moments can add a whole new level of comfort and connection. Whether through a sensuous massage or as part of your self-care routine, the warm, sweet scent creates an atmosphere that encourages relaxation and intimacy.