Ylang Ylang essential oil is derived from the star-shaped flowers of the tropical Ylang Ylang tree and is used extensively in making perfumes and in aromatherapy. Similar to Jasmine, Ylang Ylang is considered an aphrodisiac and has been used for centuries in religious and wedding ceremonies. The essential oil of ylang-ylang is extracted by steam distillation of fresh flowers of the ylang-ylang tree.
The primary chemical components of Ylang Ylang essential oil are: germacrene, caryophyllene, linalool, and sesquiterpenes. Along with its widespread use in perfumes and aromatherapy treatments due to its very pleasing and delicate fragrance, ylang-ylang essential oil is also used for a variety of purposes.
What are the benefits of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil?
Some of the primary benefits of Ylang Ylang essential oil are:
- It reduces sad and anxious feelings and relaxes both the body and soul, thereby driving away tension, sadness, and tension. It also has an uplifting effect on mood and induces feelings of joy and hope.
- It cleanses the skin, protecting it from environmental threats and supporting the immune system.
- Helps to balance hormones.
- It can be used effectively to treat mild acne.
What are Ylang Ylang’s cautions?
Some cases of sensitivity, nausea and headache have been observed when taken in excessive amounts. Otherwise, when taken in recommended doses, it is non-toxic and is not reported to cause any irritation.
Top Uses for Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
- Ylang Ylang can be used as a healthy skin toner. The antioxidants in it will help to protect your skin from the onset of the signs of wrinkles. Mix a cup of chamomile tea with 5 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil, allow it to cool, and use it as you would any other skin toner.
- Using Ylang Ylang essential oil as a hair treatment will promote the growth and health of your hair. You can either add 2-3 drops of the oil to your regular shampoo, or you can massage a mixture with 2-3 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil with about a tablespoon of coconut oil into your hair and scalp, leave it in for 20 minutes and then, wash out with warm water and a mild shampoo.
- It can be used to make a homemade exfoliating body scrub. Add 5-6 drops of Ylang Ylang, and 5-6 drops of Clary Sage oils to a mixture of ¼ cup sea salt and 2 tablespoons or raw honey. Mix well with a spatula, and store in a glass jar. Use this as a part of your bathing routine.
- It can have a very calming effect when you are tense, stressed or faced with negative circumstances. Mix 2-3 drops in a carrier oil and massage into the shoulders or back, and apply to the feet. Add 3-4 drops to your diffuser and diffuse it aromatically to promote peace.
- It can be used to calm down children and promotes digestive support in a kids. Dilute 1 drop in a teaspoon of coconut oil and massage into the baby’s feet. You can also diffuse 2-3 drops in the baby’s room throughout the day and night.
- It can help your body balance hormones. Make a rollerball by filling it ¾ full with fractionated coconut oil and then adding 3-4 drops of Ylang Ylang. Use this to apply topically to your lower abdomen every day.
- It is a great oil to use to encourage relaxation even when you are working and or busy. Add 3-4 drops to your diffuse and diffuse throughout the room. You can also apply a drop before bed or add a drop to your shirt collar to promote relaxation.
- It is very effective at relieving tension. Massage a single drop into the muscle area of tension; this will give you both the topical and aromatic benefits of Ylang Ylang essential oil.
Where to purchase Ylang Ylang essential oil
Home-made Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Recipe
Essential oils are a wonderful gift and so beneficial to all of us—including our kids. I regularly use essential oils with my children, and they love them. Their nightly ritual includes a relaxing bath, followed by rubbing essential oils on their feet before bed. Ylang, Ylang is one of the gentler essential oils that are perfect for using with your children. Read my blog on Kids and Essential Oils for general guidelines for use and information on what oils blend well for specific purposes.
Ylang Ylang and Emotions
Ylang Ylang is the oil of the inner child. It is a powerful remedy for the heart. It encourages play and restores a childlike nature and innocence. Ylang Ylang is also a powerful remedy for releasing emotional trauma from the past. It allows emotional healing to flow naturally, nurturing the heart through the process. (source)
Companion Oils: Tangerine, Wild Orange, Geranium, Rose
So tell me?! How do you like to use Ylang Ylang essential oil?
Rachael says
Thank you for this information!! When making a rollerball (mentioned in number 8), what size bottle would you suggest using so that you get the proper amount of dilution for the 3-4 drops of ylang ylang? Thanks again!
Jamie says
I make a facial cream that includes Ylang Ylang, Frankincense and Lavender—love it!!
JoAnna says
I diffuse 2 drops ylang ylang, 2 drops Breath and 2 drops lavender at night.
Tonya says
I use ylang ylang in my diffuser.