Vanilla is a plant of the orchid family, native to Reunion Island in Madagascar. After the vanilla pods are harvested, they undergo a fermentation and drying process called curing, which causes them to turn black and give off a sweet vanilla-specific aroma. Fragrances are extracted from these pods, commonly known as vanilla beans, using a solvent. Natural vanilla has a very deep scent that can be felt with a rich floral or resinous warm sweetness. It is an essential ingredient in classic oriental and chypre types, and is used to create a sense of depth by adding sweetness and depth to the entire scent.