Organic Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
Cananga odorata
Ylang-Ylang is commonly grown in plantations in Madagascar and the Comoros where much of the Ylang-Ylang essential oil is produced.
There are several grades of Ylang-Ylang oil, including Ylang-Ylang extra, I, II, III and complete.
The difference between each grade depends on when the essential oil was extracted during the distillation process.
The longer the distillation period, the lighter the fragrance of the oil will be.
Ylang-Ylang III is the lightest of all the fractions while Ylang-Ylang extra will have a full bodied scent.
The grade of this Ylang-Ylang essential oil is extra and this has a very deep scent.
The name ‘ylang-ylang’ is the Spanish spelling of the Philipino name for the tree ‘ilang-ilang’ meaning “wilderness” – referring to the tree’s natural rainforest habitat.
Other names for the Ylang-Ylang tree include ‘the fragrant cananga’, ‘Macassar-oil plant’ and ‘perfume tree’. It is called ‘kenanga’ in Malay. Its traditional Polynesian names include Mataʻoi (Cook Islands), Mohokoi (Tonga), Mosoʻoi (Samoa), Motoʻoi (Hawaii), and Mokosoi, Mokasoi or Mokohoi (Fiji).
Some sources claim that the essential oil of Ylang-Ylang was first distilled in 1860 in Manila.
According to the Pilipino myths, a long time ago a beautiful girl was born and the gods named her ‘Ylang’. No one was supposed to ever touch her but many were attracted to her. One day, a man whom she also liked, came to give her some flowers. As he handed her the bouquet, their hands touched and Ylang was instantly transformed into a beautiful tree with fragrant yellow flowers. Legend has it that since that day he has been looking for her everywhere, calling her name “ylang, ylang!”
In the Philippines, the flowers of Ylang-Ylang were traditionally used to make a pomade to massage on the body.
This helped to counter insect and snake bites and to avoid diseases throughout the rainy season.
Ylang-Ylang is also known as poor man’s jasmine as it is much more affordable.
What does Ylang-Ylang essential oil smell like?
Exotic, intensely floral, sweet and slightly fruity.
Which part of the plant provides the oil?
Freshly picked flowers.
Where has Ylang-Ylang essential oil been sourced from?
Madagascar
How is Ylang-Ylang essential oil extracted?
Ylang-Ylang oil is extracted by steam distillation.
This involves using steam from boiling water to extract the essential oil from the plant.
The heat from the steam causes the plant’s cell walls to open allowing the essential oil to be released.
What other oils blend well with Ylang-Ylang essential oil?
Ylang ylang oil blends well with bergamot, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, lemon, neroli , patchouli, rose, rosewood, sandalwood and sweet orange.
How can I benefit from Ylang-Ylang essential oil?
Here are some ways you can benefit from Ylang-Ylang essential oil:
- Stress and Anxiety Relief: Ylang-Ylang is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Inhaling the aroma of Ylang-Ylang essential oil through a diffuser or adding a few drops to your bath can help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility.
- Mood Enhancement: The oil’s aroma is believed to have mood-enhancing effects, helping to uplift your spirits and improve overall emotional well-being. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing depression or low moods.
- Aphrodisiac Effects: Ylang-Ylang has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, believed to increase libido and enhance romantic feelings. It can be used in aromatherapy or as a massage oil for this purpose.
- Skin and Hair Care: Ylang-Ylang essential oil has properties that can help improve the appearance of the skin and hair. It may aid in balancing sebum production, making it suitable for both oily and dry skin types. It may also promote hair growth and contribute to a healthy scalp when added to hair care products.
- Improved Sleep: Diffusing Ylang-Ylang oil in your bedroom or using it in a bedtime bath can create a calming environment and promote better sleep quality.
- Lowered Blood Pressure: Some studies suggest that inhaling Ylang-Ylang essential oil may help reduce blood pressure and heart rate, leading to a potential improvement in cardiovascular health.
- Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Properties: Ylang-Ylang oil contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which may help reduce pain and inflammation when applied topically in a carrier oil.
- Natural Insect Repellent: Ylang-Ylang has been used traditionally as a natural insect repellent. You can dilute the oil with water or a carrier oil and apply it to your skin to help keep insects at bay.
Are there precautions I should know about?
Excessive use of it can lead to headaches and nausea.
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