Vanilla is a wonderful, multipurpose seed with a rich, deep flavour and a beautiful scent. Now that we have started to sell whole vanilla pods we’ve been taking a look at all the wonderful dishes, lotions and potions we can make. Mountain Rose Herbs has some excellent ideas, and here are a few of our favourite:

Make your own extact.

You will need 3-4 vanilla beans and 1 cup of brandy or vodka or bourbon. Split the bean in half lengthwise, leaving the seeds intact. Place the beans in a jar, cover with alcohol and seal tightly. Shake the jar daily for 4-6 weeks; the longer you leave it the stronger the taste. Use just as you would regular vanilla extract.

Make your own vanilla body oil.

You will need 2 vanilla beans and 1 cup carrier oil (such as jojoba). Slice the bean lengthways and cut into small pieces. Place in a glass jar, cover with oil and shake well. Leave on a sunny warm windowsill for 1-2 months, shaking daily. If you don’t like seeds in your body oil they can be strained out with a cheesecloth.

Make a vanilla and honey scrub

You will need 3/4 cup sugar or sea salt, 1/4 cup plus 1 Tbsp carrier oil (like apricot kernel oil), 1 Tbsp honey and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Combine all in a bowl and mix well. Store in a glass jar.