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The Magic of Vanilla

Vanilla is one of the world's most loved and tantalizing flavors. An incredibly versatile spice whose flavor and fragrance is an ingredient in more dishes than we could begin to list, adding a little vanilla can do wonders for most foods and beverages. Despite its ubiquity, though, vanilla is the second most expensive spice, after saffron. There are at least 150 known varieties of vanilla, but only two - Bourbon and Tahitian - are used commercially, most commonly as vanilla extract, that magical smelling liquid in the little brown bottles that is so cherished by home bakers.

But vanilla is more than just an ingredient in baked goods; it's been used for various purposes, from aromatherapy to herbal remedies, for centuries. Useful for calming both body and mind, vanilla can help us feel good. Here are some suggestions for making use of vanilla's magic.

* A tablespoon of vanilla extract added to a gallon of paint can help cut the smell.

* Adding a vanilla bean or two to your furniture polish acts as both a natural insect repellant and air freshener. Bugs don't like the smell and will stay clear, whereas you and your guests will enjoy the sweet smell of vanilla.

* Vanilla's sweetness relieves heat. Adding vanilla to a spicy recipe will soften the bite, while bringing out the sweetness and flavor of the peppers. Rubbing some vanilla on your tongue can even soothe the burn from taking a bite of something that's too hot or spicy.

* A few drops of vanilla can neutralize the acidity of tomato-based sauces.

* Place a cotton ball soaked with vanilla on a saucer in your refrigerator to remove musty odors or overpowering food smells.

* Soothe a teething baby by rubbing a little pure vanilla extract onto the child 's gums.