YLANG YLANG: BENEFITS, VARIETIES & USES (2025)

IN ESSENCE…

• Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is derived from the steam distillated flowers of the Cananga odorata botanical.
• There are 5classifications of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil: Ylang Ylang Extra, Ylang Ylang I, IIIII, and Ylang Ylang Complete. The numbers refer to the number of times Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is distilled through fractionation.
• Used in aromatherapy applications, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil soothes stress, anxiety, sadness, tension, and sleeplessness. Its aphrodisiac quality is reputed to boost the libido to enhance sensuality between a couple.
• Used cosmetically or topically in general, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is known to balance and regulate oil production in the skin and hair, while also soothing inflammation and irritation. It enhances circulation, encourages the growth of new skin and hair, contributes and maintains hydration, conditions, and prevents infections.
• Used medicinally, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil effectively facilitates the healing of wounds, enhances the health of the nervous system, reduces the stress exerted on the nerves, balances blood pressure levels, and stabilizes the heart rate.

HISTORY OF YLANG YLANG OIL USAGE

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, pronounced “Ee-lang Ee-lang,” receives its common name from the repetition of the Tagalog word “ilang,” meaning “wilderness,” whichis where the tree is naturally found. The wilderness to which it is native or in which it is cultivated includes the tropical rainforests of the Philippines, Indonesia, Java, Sumatra, Comoro, and Polynesia. The Ylang Ylang tree, scientifically identified as the Cananga odorata botanical, is also sometimes referred to as The Fragrant Cananga, The Perfume Tree, and The Macassar Oil Plant.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is derived from the steam distillation of the plant’s sea star-shaped flowering parts. It is known to have a scent that can be described as sweetly and delicately floral and fresh with a fruity nuance. There are 5 varieties of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil available in the market: In the first 1-2 hours of distillation, the distillate obtained is called Extra, while grades I, II and III of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil are extracted in the following hours by specifically determined fractions of time. The fifth variety is referred to as Ylang Ylang Complete. This final distillation of Ylang Ylang is typically achieved after it has been distilled for 6-20 hours. It retains the characteristic rich, sweet, floral scent; however, its undertone is more herbaceous than the previous distillations, thus its general scent is lighter than that of Ylang Ylang Extra. The name ‘Complete’ refers to the fact that this variety is the result of a continuous, undisturbed distillation of the Ylang Ylang flower.

In Indonesia, Ylang Ylang flowers, believed to have aphrodisiac properties, are sprinkled on the bed of a newlywed couple. In the Philippines, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is used by healers to address cuts, burns, and bites from both insects and snakes. In the Molucca islands, the oil was used to make a popular hair pomade called Macassar Oil. In the early 20^th century, after its medicinal properties were discovered by a French chemist, Ylang Ylang Oil came to be used as a potent remedy for infections of the intestines and for typhus and malaria. Eventually, it became popular around the world for its ability to promote relaxation by easing the symptoms and effects of anxiety and harmful stress.

Today, Ylang Ylang Oil continues to be used for its health-enhancing characteristics. Due to its soothing and stimulating properties, it is reputed to be beneficial for addressing ailments associated with women’s reproductive health, such as premenstrual syndrome and low libido. Additionally, it is beneficial for calming stress-related ailments such as anxiety, depression, nervous tension, insomnia, high blood pressure, and palpitations.

YLANG YLANG OIL BENEFITS

The main chemical constituents of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil are: Linalool, Geranyl acetate, Germacrene-D, beta-Caryophyllene, Benzyl acetate, Geraniol, Methyl p-Cresol, Methyl benzoate, Geranyl acetate, Farnasene, and Benzyl benzoate.

LINALOOL is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Sedative
• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-anxiety
• Analgesic
• Anti-depressant

GERANYL ACETATE is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Anti-fungal
• Anti-microbial
• Anti-inflammatory

GERMACRENE-D is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Stimulating
• Anti-viral
• Anti-fungal
• Anti-microbial
• Anti-bacterial
• Decongestant
• Hepatoprotective
• Insecticidal

BETA-CARYOPHYLLENE is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Anti-bacterial
• Neuro-protective
• Anti-depressant
• Antioxidant
• Analgesic
• Anxiolytic

BENZYL ACETATE is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Fragrant (sweet, fruity, floral, and reminiscent of Jasmine flowers)
• Sedative
• Anti-spasmodic

GERANIOL is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Antioxidant
• Anti-bacterial
• Anti-septic
• Analgesic

METHYL P-CRESOL is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Disinfectant
• Anti-bacterial

METHYL BENZOATE is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Spasmolytic
• Sedative
• Anti-fungal
• Anaesthetic
• Anti-inflammatory

GERANYL ACETATE is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Anti-fungal
• Anti-septic
• Anti-viral
• Energizing
• Stimulant
• Warming
• Diuretic
• Aphrodisiac

FARNESENE is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Calming
• Sedative
• Anti-fungal
• Anti-bacterial

BENZYL BENZOATE is believed to exhibit the following activity:

• Insecticidal
• Antimicrobial
• Fragrant (faintly balsamic and sweet)

Used in aromatherapy applications, Ylang Ylang Oil is known to soothe feelings of stress, anxiety, sadness, tension, and sleeplessness. Its pleasant floral scent, which has been described as both delicate and powerful, makes it an ideal ingredient for use in perfumes for both men and women as well as in aromatherapy applications. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is reputed to have anti-depressant properties that not only address negative feelings, including nervousness, shock, and fatigue, it also promotes positive feelings of cheerfulness and optimism, thus uplifting the mood. Its aphrodisiac quality is known to boost libido to enhance sensuality between a couple by addressing the mental and emotional factors that sometimes hinder a romantic mood. With a deeply sweet, bright, spicy and stimulating scent nuanced with traces of Jasmine, Neroli, and Banana, Ylang Ylang Oil is a popular ingredient in cosmetic fragrances and other cosmetic products. When sprayed or diffused to freshen the air in an indoor environment, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil blends well with Bergamot, Grapefruit, Lavender, and Sandalwood essential oils.

Used cosmetically or topically in general, Ylang Ylang Oil is best known for balancing and regulating oil production in the skin and hair to prevent excessive dryness and oiliness. It soothes inflammation and irritation on the body and the scalp while strengthening skin and hair. It addresses acne as well as hair loss by enhancing circulation, encouraging the growth of new skin and hair, contributing and maintaining hydration, conditioning, and preventing infections with its anti-microbial properties.By calming the mind and body, it promotes the faster onset of sleep and arouses sensuality.

Used medicinally, Ylang Ylang Oil works to effectively facilitate the healing of wounds by preventing cuts, scrapes, and burns, among other types of minor injuries, from becoming infected by harmful bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Its nervine property is known to enhance the health of the nervous system by strengthening it and repairing any damage it might have undergone. By reducing the stress exerted on the nerves, it helps reduce the chances of causing potential nervous disorders. Its hypotensive quality is believed to balance blood pressure levels, enhance circulation, and normalize the heart rate.

As illustrated, Ylang Ylang Oil is reputed to have many therapeutic properties. The following highlights its many benefits and the kinds of activity it is believed to show:

• COSMETIC: Anti-seborrheic, Protective, Stimulating, Moisturizing, Oil-Regulating, Clarifying, Conditioning, Anti-inflammatory, Brightening, Freshening, Smoothing, Strengthening
• ODOROUS: Anti-depressant, Aphrodisiac, Sedative, Energizing, Soothing/Calming, Hypotensive, Nervine
• MEDICINAL: Anti-seborrheic, Anti-depressant, Anti-septic, Hypotensive, Nervine, Sedative, Anti-inflammatory

YLANG YLANG OIL USES

Used in aromatherapy applications, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil can be diffused in an essential oil burner or electric diffuser to stabilize emotions, inspire feelings of relaxation, and create a hospitable atmosphere. For an aromatherapy blend that naturally enhances energy by addressing problems like constant tiredness, fatigue, body aches, and exhaustion, diffuse 2-3 drops of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil. This is also known to immediately boost the mood, sedate the mind and body to alleviate factors leading to insomnia, and lower the body’s stress responses such as palpitations. Diffusing Ylang Ylang has the added benefit of working as an agent that enhances the inclination to socialize. Furthermore, it is a circulation stimulant and an aid for improved digestion and metabolism. Alternatively, a single drop can be added to bedsheets or to a small area of clothing that will not directly or constantly brush against the skin.

To create an aromatherapy diffuser blend that promotes positivity, happiness, and optimism, combine 2 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 2 drops Grapefruit Essential Oil, and 1 drop Bergamot Essential Oil. To create a natural aphrodisiac blend that can also be applied as a roll-on perfume, first pour 15 drops of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil and 5 drops Sweet Orange Essential Oil into a small glass bowl. Using a toothpick or a chopstick, mix the two oils together thoroughly. To this mix, add 2 tsp. of Grapeseed Carrier Oil and thoroughly blend it in with the other oils. Using a syringe, transfer this oil blend to a 10 ml roller vial. This perfume can be applied to pulse points, such as the collar bone, neck, wrists, and inner elbows.

Used in cosmetic applications, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil can be diluted and applied to the skin to maintain its health. To reduce the signs of aging, to soothe irritation, and to generally protect the skin, simply dilute 1-2 drops of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil in 1 Tbsp. Coconut Carrier Oil or Jojoba Carrier Oil, then gently massage it into the face 1-2 times daily.

To create a relaxing aromatic bath that is simultaneously romantic, combine 15 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 10 drops Geranium Essential Oil, 10 drops Grapefruit Essential Oil, and 2 cups Dead Sea Salt in a glass bowl. Pour this salt blend into a bath tub under hot running water. Before entering the tub, ensure that the salt has dissolved completely. Soak in this calming and balancing bath for 15-30 minutes to stimulate better circulation and to promote an affectionate mood.

For a conditioning hair treatment that enhances the health, luster, and texture of strands, mix 2-3 drops of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil into a 2 Tbsp. of Coconut Carrier Oil. Next, massage this blend into the scalp and smooth it down over the strands to the hair ends to prevent tangles, to soothe dandruff, and to reduce the chances of hair loss. Before showering, massage this blend into the scalp and hair, and allow it to soak for 20 minutes before washing it out with a regular mild shampoo. Alternatively, it can be diluted in Jojoba Carrier Oil or even in a regular conditioner.

For a massage oil blend that soothes tired muscles, combine 4 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 4 drops Sandalwood Essential Oil, 4 drops Sweet Orange Essential Oil, 2 drops Bergamot Essential Oil, and 60 ml (2 oz.) Carrier Oil of personal preference. Suggested carrier oils include Argan, Macadamia, Olive, Sesame, or Sweet Almond. Next, cap the bottle and shake it well to thoroughly combine all the oils. Allow the mixture to sit for a couple of days to ensure thorough mixing. When it is ready to be used in a massage, pour a dime-size amount into the palm of the hand, rub the hands together, and massage the oil over the body. For the added benefits of other essential oils that are reputed to have aphrodisiac properties, dilute 5 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 3 drops Sandalwood Essential Oil, and 3 drops Wild Orange Essential Oil in 1 tsp. of a Carrier Oil of personal choice. This enticing blend can be massaged onto the inner thighs before bed.

For a moisturizing and oil-balancing face cream with antioxidant effects that slow the look of aging, 1-2 drops of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil can be added to a usual face cream. Alternatively, to make an all-natural face cream that exhibits the benefits of Ylang Ylang and that is valuable for use on combination skin, first combine ½ cup Shea Butter, 2 Tbsp. Rose Floral Water, and 1 tsp. Vegetable Glycerin in a blender. Once the mixture has been blended into a creamy consistency, which will be white in color, scoop the emulsion into an amber glass jar. To this, add 5 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 5 drops Lavender Essential Oil, and 3 drops Geranium Essential Oil. Next, using a thin stick such as a chopstick, thoroughly incorporate all the oils into the cream. To use this moisturizer, gently massage a pea-size amount into the skin. If stored in a clean, cool, dry place when it is not in use, this cream may be able to last for 6-12 months.

For a nourishing and hydrating body lotion that lifts, tones, protects and promotes the faster healing of skin, first place ¼ cup Olive Carrier Oil, ¼ cup Coconut Carrier Oil, ¼ cup Beeswax, and ¼ cup Shea Butter in a glass bowl. Place this bowl in a saucepan filled with water, then place the saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Stir together all the ingredients. After they have thoroughly combined, remove the bowl from the heat, allow it to cool down, and place it in the refrigerator for 1 hour. Once the mixture hardens, take the bowl out. Next, with a regular mixer or a hand mixer, beat the blend. Once it reaches a fluffy and whipped consistency, mix in 2 Tbsp. Vitamin E liquid from a broken supplement gel followed by 20 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 10 drops Frankincense Essential Oil, and 10 drops Myrrh Essential Oil. Once more, mix the combination until all the ingredients are thoroughly fused. Spoon this blend into a glass container. To apply this lotion, use the fingers to scoop a small amount into the hands, rub it between the palms, and massage it into the preferred area of skin. To store this lotion, keep it in a cool place when it is not being used.

To promote hair growth by stimulating circulation while eliminating the bacteria and inflammation that may cause hair loss, first pour ½ cup of Coconut Carrier Oil into a clean dark dropper bottle or container. Next, add 10 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 10 drops Rosemary Essential Oil, and 10 drops Lavender Essential Oil. Cap the bottle and shake it well to thoroughly combine all the oils. 1-2 hours before showering, massage this conditioning blend into the scalp and hair, and allow it to soak. When it is time for a shower, wash it out with a regular mild shampoo. This will leave hair feeling silkier and looking shinier Alternatively, a conditioning hair oil can be made by diluting 15 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil in ½ cup Sweet Almond Carrier Oil.

For a hair perfume or body spray that allows strands and skin to emit a long-lasting and pleasantly intense scent, combine 7-10 drops of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 2 tsp. Aloe Vera Gel Juice, and 45 ml (1 ½ oz.) distilled water inside a 60 ml (2 oz.) spray bottle. Shake the bottle to thoroughly blend together all the ingredients, then spray it on the hair or on the skin as a regular spray-on perfume.

Used in medicinal applications, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is known to stimulate circulation, ease pain and inflammation, and soothe mental ailments such as nervousness and sadness. To create a massage oil that is reputed to have all of these effects, first pour ½ cup of Coconut Carrier Oil into a 120 ml (4 oz.) amber glass bottle. To this, add 15 drops of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil. Replace the bottle cap and shake the bottle well to ensure the oils are thoroughly combined. This massage blend can be applied to the feet, scalp, back, or hands.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil’s anti-depressant, sedative, and anti-spasmodic qualities are known to address and reduce the mood swings and cramps associated with pre-menstrual syndrome. For a remedial massage blend that balances hormones and naturally eases these unpleasant symptoms related to the menstrual cycle, dilute 5 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil, 3 drops Lavender Essential Oil, and 1 drop Clary Sage in 2 Tbsp. of a Carrier Oil of personal preference. This massage blend can be applied to the lower abdomen and the lower back to release stiffness, pressure, aching, and cramping.

For an anti-septic oil blend that can soothe or diminish the appearance of acne, wounds, rashes, boils, and ingrown hairs, first pour 2 tsp. of Witch Hazel Distillate into a 10 ml (0.33 oz.) bottle. To this, add 2 drops Ylang Ylang Essential Oil and 2 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil. Apply this blend to the affected areas.

YLANG YLANG OIL VARIETIES & THEIR BENEFITS

YLANG YLANG ESSENTIAL OIL (#1, #2, and #3)

Botanical Name: Cananga odorata

Method of Extraction and Plant Part: Steam distilled from flowers

Country of Origin: Madagascar

Qualities of Each:

• All the varieties share a scent that is characterized by a base note with a medium aroma. Their fragrances can be described as sweet, exotic, and floral; however, each higher grade has a slightly less-sweet aroma than the previous grade.
• Ylang Ylang Essential Oil I: Has the sweetest, brightest scent of the 3 grades and is best suited to aromatherapy applications.
• Ylang Ylang Essential Oil III: Has the heaviest/darkest scent and is the grade best suited to the manufacturing of scented soaps, candles, shampoos, and other bath and body products.
• All Varieties: Have anti-depressant, aphrodisiac, euphoric, and sedative properties. They are reputed to tone the nervous and circulatory systems, regulate blood pressure, and calm heart palpitations. They balance sebum production and stabilize several other body functions.

CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR YLANG YLANG OIL

As per NAHA guidelines, New Directions Aromatics (NDA) does not recommend the ingestion of essential oils. It is imperative to consult a medical practitioner before using this oil for therapeutic purposes. Pregnant and nursing women are especially advised not to use Ylang Ylang Essential Oil without the medical advice of a physician, as it may have an effect on certain hormone secretions and it is unclear whether these effects are transferable to babies at these stages of development. The oil should always be stored in an area that is inaccessible to children, especially those under the age of 7.

Those with the following health conditions are recommended to be advised: diabetes, cancer, low blood pressure and other heart-related ailments, peptic ulcers, liver damage, bleeding disorders, skin disorders, or hormone-related ailments. Individuals that are taking prescription drugs, undergoing major surgery, or who are at a greater risk of experiencing strokes, heart attacks, or atherosclerosis are also advised to seek medical consultation prior to use.

Prior to using Ylang Ylang Oil, a skin test is recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 drop of the Essential Oil in 4 drops of a Carrier Oil and applying a dime-size amount of this blend to a small area of skin that is not sensitive. Ylang Ylang Oil must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, and ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin. Potential side effects of Ylang Ylang Oil include sensitization, rashes, headache, and nausea.

Those seeking medical care to manage moods, behaviors, or disorders should treat this essential oil as a complementary remedy rather than a replacement for any medicinal treatments or prescriptions. In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the product and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.