Vanilla is native to Mexico, though today it grows extensively in Indonesia and Madagascar. It thrives in areas with a humid tropical climate and rainfall in the range of 200–300 cm. It can be cultivated anywhere from sea level to a height of 1500 m above sea level. Well-drained soil, rich in humus, is considered ideal for the propagation of vanilla. The plant will not survive in waterlogged areas or on ground with clayey soil. Vanilla flowers bloom from December to February, with a single-day life span for a flower. While the plant starts flowering in its third year, it produces the most flowers during its 7th or 8th year. Vanilla absolute is extracted from the pods of vanilla through solvent extraction. The resulting extract is strong and has a sweet and creamy aroma. It is incredibly popular in the fragrance industry but also possesses anti-inflammatory properties.