Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Latin Name: Cananga Odorata

Parts of Plant Used: Flowers

Origin: Comoros

Extraction Method: Steam Distillation

Ylang Ylang is a large tree native to far eastern countries such as Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia. Its yellow flowers are very fragrant and have long petals. The essential oil made from it is available in abundance and is therefore the least expensive, but it is highly favoured for its fragrance in perfume and cosmetic industries and is also being used in the food industry nowadays.

According to science, ylang-ylang essential oil is a mental stimulant. On the contrary, the world of aromatherapy considers this oil to be one of the best for relaxing the mind and body. Simply its smell is supposed to help in lowering blood pressure. Bathing with the oil or using it in a massage oil naturally enhances the relaxing experience. It is used to relieve stress, depression, shock or anxiety. When used as a hair tonic, it is supposed to balance oil production. However, be aware that high concentrations of ylang ylang can cause headaches or nausea.

Ylang Ylang means the flower of flowers in Malay, and traditionally it was regarded as an aphrodisiac and a relaxing fragrance, which is why the flowers of this tree were strewn on the bridal bed of a newlywed couple in Indonesia. Muslim women used to burn this oil to perfume their harems, the part of the palace reserved for women. In China, the fragrance was used to purify the robes of the mandarin. Ylang Ylang essential oil has been associated with perfumes and relaxation for a long time.