The Totonacos are believed to be the first ones to cultivate vanilla orchids. This group of people traditionally lived in the Vera Cruz region of Mexico. In order to give off its wonderful smell, vanilla must be cured for a long period of time and the Totonacos probably found vanilla pods that had been naturally cured by the heat and humidity of the tropical rainforest. They realised what the plant had to offer and commenced production of vanilla.

According to Totonaco myths, the very first vanilla vine was formed when the blood of two lovers where spilled onto the forest floor. Vanilla was considered a gift from the gods and was strongly associated with love.