- A Recap Of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
- Using Ylang Ylang Oil In A Diffuser
- Using Ylang Ylang Oil In A Massage
- Using Ylang Ylang Oil In Cosmetics
- Using Ylang Ylang Oil In A Bath
- Additional Resources
- Contraindications For Ylang Ylang Oil
IN ESSENCE…
- Distilled from the fresh, fragrant blossoms of the tropical Cananga odorata botanical, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is prized in perfumery and aromatherapy applications. It is reputed to harmonize our internal systems, rejuvenate the skin, comfort the mind, and heighten sensations of pleasure.
- Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is available and sold in various grades: Ylang Ylang Extra, Ylang Ylang 1, 2, 3, and Ylang Ylang Complete.
- The differences amongst the grades can be likened to brewing a pot of coffee, with the coffee being drawn at various stages of brewing. The very first cup (similar to Ylang Ylang Extra) would be the strongest brew, with the second cup being very slightly less potent (Ylang Ylang 1), and the last cup being the mildest (Ylang Ylang 3). Combining the cups together results in the balancing out of the coffee’s aroma and flavor profile; this is the aim of Ylang Ylang Complete.
- A highly versatile oil, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil’s aromatic and therapeutic benefits can be gained by using it within a relaxing diffuser blend, in a soothing aphrodisiac massage, in an invigorating bath soak, in a nourishing scalp oil, and more.
A RECAP OF YLANG YLANG ESSENTIAL OIL – A SENSUAL FLORAL FRAGRANCE
Exuding a beautifully sweet, warm, and richly floral scent, Ylang Ylang Essential Oil reminds one of a heavenly summer garden that entices the senses with its sensual aromatic notes that seem to be both bold and delicately feminine in its intensity. The Ylang Ylang botanical (Cananga odorata), nicknamed ‘The Perfume Tree’, can be found abundantly in the exotic islands of Asia, including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Madagascar. Known for its characteristic droopy boughs and elegantly curled yellow flowers, the tree’s bark, leaves, and blossoms has been used for centuries in traditional remedies and celebratory rituals across the region of Southeast Asia.
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is derived through the steam distillation of the flowers carefully picked in the early hours of the morning. The daily harvest is typically completed before 9 a.m., and no later than 10 a.m. What follows is a time-consuming fractional distillation process that can take as much as 15 hours, with the oil being harbored in batches. This results in the well-known ‘grades’ of Ylang Ylang Oil. The first four grades (Ylang Ylang Ylang Extra and Ylang Ylang 1, 2, 3) reflect the distillation times through which the resultant oil is obtained; Ylang Ylang Complete is the result of continuous, uninterrupted fractionation of the flowers, but is most often derived through the blending of the first four grades.
To understand this intricate process, imagine brewing a pot of coffee, with cups of coffee being drawn at various stages of brewing. The very first cup drawn would have the strongest brew, with a very potent and concentrated nature to its taste and aroma. This is similar to Ylang Ylang Extra. Subsequent cups drawn will level off gradually in its potency and intensity, with the last cup being the mildest (similar to Ylang Ylang 3). However, if all the cups from each stage were combined and blended together, one would get a uniform, well-rounded cup of coffee that captures all of its nuances. This blended cup of coffee, having a balanced aroma and flavor profile, is similar to Ylang Ylang Complete.
NDA’s varieties include Ylang Ylang 1 (a richly potent aroma that is wonderful in aromatherapy, personal care, and cosmetics) Ylang Ylang 2 (a slightly less potent aroma that is excellent at comforting the mind and body), and Ylang Ylang 3 (a milder aroma that is popular in skincare products and remedies).
In addition to the differing scents of the various grades, the chemical composition of Ylang Ylang Oil varies naturally as well. Ylang Ylang 1 in general tends to have a higher percentage of the constituent Linalool and esters such as Geranyl acetate. In contrast, Ylang Ylang 3 tends to be rich in sesquiterpenes, which can be beneficial in improving the appearance and texture of the skin.
Read on to discover eight uplifting ways this delightfully floral and versatile essential oil can be used around the home, from lifting the spirits and mollifying anger, to beautifying one’s skin and hair, to rekindling passion and chemistry with a partner!
USING YLANG YLANG OIL IN A DIFFUSER TO CREATE A SERENE SPACE AND CALM EMOTIONS
Ylang Ylang’s rich floral scent has been observed to promote a unique sense of peace, positivity, and tranquility in the mind. Simply inhaling the aroma is thought to have a regulating effect on the bodily systems relating to stress and arousal, especially the autonomic nervous system which controls factors such as one’s blood pressure and breathing rate. Accordingly, Ylang Ylang Oil is reputed to have a hypotensive effect and also bring about a deeper, more relaxed form of breathing. In aromatherapy, it is often incorporated in remedies that help to calm frazzled or imbalanced emotions, such as anger, resentment, and envy.
1. Ylang Ylang And Geranium Diffuser Blend To Relieve Tense Emotions
Use this synergistic blend to help create a positive, tranquil space while calming hyperactive feelings such as anger, anxiety, stress, or frustration. Ylang Ylang, Geranium, and Lavender oils together release an exquisite and peaceful floral scent that instantly soothes the spirit.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Ylang Ylang Essential Oil | 10 drops |
| Geranium Essential Oil | 7 drops |
| Lavender Essential Oil | 5-6 drops |
Instructions: Add the specified essential oils into a 2 mL glass bottle, then roll the bottle between your palms to help blend all oils together. Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, add the appropriate number of drops to your diffuser. Modify the recipes as needed depending on your preferences and the size of your diffuser.
2. Ylang Ylang And Bergamot Diffuser Blend For Restful Sleep
Use this synergistic blend to instill positive sleep habits and overcome insomnia. Ylang Ylang, Bergamot, and Marjoram Sweet oils powerfully relax both the mind and body to help dampen the senses, clear the head, and encourage sleepiness.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Ylang Ylang Essential Oil | 10 drops |
| Bergamot Essential Oil | 10 drops |
| Marjoram Sweet Essential Oil | 3-5 drops |
Instructions: Add the specified essential oils into a 2 mL glass bottle, then roll the bottle between your palms to help blend all oils together. Depending on the manufacturer’s instructions, add the appropriate number of drops to your diffuser. Modify the recipes as needed depending on your preferences and the size of your diffuser.
USING YLANG YLANG OIL IN A MASSAGE TO HEIGHTEN AROUSAL AND REDUCE PAIN
One of the most well-known benefits of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is that it acts as a potent aphrodisiac. Its sensual aroma, when incorporated in a body massage, helps to boost the libido, heighten sexual arousal, elevate the sense of touch, and encourage intimacy and bonding between couples. It is also reputed to help with impotence and other issues related to sexual dysfunction.
Massaging also brings out Ylang Ylang Oil’s anti-inflammatory and stimulatory properties, which can be beneficial for those suffering from joint pain, swelling, and arthritis. It is also thought to encourage circulation which reduces stiffness and pain while enhancing recovery from fatigue or strenuous exercise.
3. Ylang Ylang Massage Blend For Romance And Sensuality
Use this intoxicating massage blend to ignite chemistry and kindle lasting desire with a partner. The earthy, sweet-spicy, masculine notes of Sandalwood merge beautifully with the tropical, floral, feminine scents of Ylang Ylang and Jasmine to create an enticing and luxurious synergy that is well-suited for passion and romance.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Ylang Ylang Essential Oil | 4 drops |
| Sandalwood Essential Oil | 4 drops |
| Jasmine Grandiflorum Absolute | 3 drops |
| Preferred Carrier Oil (Recommended: MCT 60/40 Oil or Coconut Oil) |
60 mL (2 fl. oz.) |
Instructions: In a glass container, pour in the Carrier Oil before adding the Essential Oils. Mix the ingredients together by swirling the container. Warm a portion of this blend in between the palms of your hand before applying onto and massaging desired areas.
4. Ylang Ylang Massage Blend For Pain Relief
Use this anti-inflammatory massage blend to relieve pain, aches, strains, and soreness. Paired with a Carrier Oil such as Avocado or Olive Oil that is high in Oleic Acids, this massage remedy will also help nourish, hydrate, and strengthen the skin to reduce irritations due to inflammation.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Ylang Ylang Essential Oil | 3 drops |
| Peppermint Essential Oil | 9 drops |
| Preferred Carrier Oil (Recommended: Any Carrier Oil high in Oleic Acids) |
60 mL (2 fl. oz.) |
Instructions: In a glass container, pour in the Carrier Oil before adding the Essential Oils. Mix the ingredients together by swirling the container. Warm a portion of this blend in between the palms of your hand before applying onto and massaging desired areas.
USING YLANG YLANG OIL IN COSMETICS TO CLARIFY SKIN AND STRENGTHEN HAIR STRANDS
Much like how Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is thought to exert an internal regulating and harmonizing effect inside the body, it is also believed to balance and synchronize the surface of the skin by maintaining optimal hydration and sebum levels. Interestingly, for this reason, Ylang Ylang Oil is recommended for both oily and acne-prone skin types as well as those with excessively dry skins. Ylang Ylang Oil also has potent reputed antioxidant properties, which is beneficial for those with mature skin. It is extremely useful in cleansing applications due to its observed antibacterial properties, which further helps clarify the skin and achieve an even tone.
For the hair, Ylang Ylang Oil is a popular natural ingredient featured in hair growth and anti-dandruff remedies. In particular, using it in a nourishing scalp massage is believed to help clear the scalp, lessen flakiness, and open up clogged follicles. Ylang Ylang Oil was also used by the Victorians in the 1800s to create a traditional hair pomade by blending with Coconut Oil. The pomade was used to help with grooming and styling, as well as address issues of balding and hair loss.
5. Ylang Ylang Facial Mask For A Radiant Complexion
This all-natural mask helps exfoliate and balance the skin’s oils to reveal clear, luminous skin. Multani Mitti works to eliminate dirt, excess oils, and bacteria, Rose Water deeply soothes and hydrates, while Ylang Ylang Oil balances, restores, and brightens the skin’s texture.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Multani Mitti (Fullers Earth) Clay | 2 tsp. |
| Rose Hydrosol / Rose Water | 2.5 tsp. (can be adjusted as needed) |
| Ylang Ylang Essential Oil | 2 drops |
Instructions: Measure and add the Multani Mitti Clay into a small bowl, followed by the Ylang Ylang Oil. Incorporate Rose Water as needed and mix to create a paste (the thickness can be adjusted to your liking). Using a face brush, gently apply the mixture and leave on for 10 minutes. Rinse well.
6. Ylang Ylang Hair & Scalp Oil For Lustrous Hair
Use this strengthening hair and scalp oil to bring life back to dull, damaged, or dry hair. It also helps soothe and clarify the scalp to support optimal hair growth.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Argan Carrier Oil | 2 tbsp. |
| Ylang Yalng Essential Oil | 2 drops |
| Tea Tree Essential Oil | 5 drops |
| Rosemary Essential Oil | 2 drops |
Instructions: In a small bowl or container, combine the oils together, and mix well. Section the hair using the fine-toothed comb, and massage a small portion of this mixture onto the scalp. Rub using firm pressure to stimulate the skin. With the remaining oil, smooth over the hair strands and ends. Leave on for 20 minutes before shampooing and conditioning the hair as usual.
USING YLANG YLANG OIL IN A BATH TO WIND DOWN AND REJUVENATE SKIN
A soothing bath incorporating Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is an excellent way to pamper oneself while allowing its nourishing constituents to absorb and revitalize the skin. Ylang Ylang 3 is the commonly used grade for soaps and bath products due to its more gentle aroma and richness in sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, which helps boosts the complexion and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, sagging, and stretch marks.
7. Invigorating Ylang Ylang Bath Soak For Clear Skin
Use this simple bath soak recipe to create a pampering at-home spa experience with the detoxifying properties of Himalayan Pink Salt, the deep-cleansing properties of Red French Clay, and the refreshing properties of Ylang Ylang Oil.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| Himalayan Pink Salt | 1 cup |
| Red French Clay | 1/2 cup |
| Baking Soda | 1/4 cup |
| Ylang Ylang Essential Oil | 2-4 drops |
Instructions: In a bowl, combine the salt, clay, and baking soda together before adding the essential oils. Stir to combine, then spoon into a glass jar. To use, add about 1/4 – 1/2 cup of the bath soak mixture to the bath, and relax for 20 minutes.
8. Sweet Floral Bubble Bath For Relaxation
A bubble bath is the perfect de-stressing activity after a long, hectic day. This recipe uses NDA’s Bubble Bath Base to make an easy yet luxurious bath experience incorporating the aromatherapy benefits of Ylang Ylang Oil, immersed in a delightful blend of Pink Grapefruit, Lavender, and Rose.
| INGREDIENTS | AMOUNT |
|---|---|
| NDA’s Bubble Bath Base | 200 mL |
| Ylang Ylang Essential Oil | 6 drops |
| Pink Grapefruit Essential Oil | 6 drops |
| Lavender Essential Oil | 4 drops |
| Rose Absolute | 1-2 drops |
Instructions: In a mixing bowl, add the oils to Bubble Bath base and stir well to combine. Decant into a container or bottle of your choice.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Interested in discovering the history, uses, and benefits of other floral Essential Oils? Learn more by reading our articles on Lavender Essential Oil, Rose Absolute, Clary Sage Essential Oil, and Geranium Essential Oil!
We also have an in-depth article covering more of the history, chemical composition, and benefits of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil. Read it here!
CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR YLANG YLANG ESSENTIAL 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.