Have you ever caught a whiff of something so delightful that it instantly lifted your mood? That’s the beauty of Ylang Ylang. With its exotic fragrance and rich history, it is one of the most sought-after essential oils in the world of aromatherapy. But this oil isn’t just about its sweet, intoxicating aroma; it’s packed with therapeutic benefits that soothe the mind, body, and soul.
Let’s explore Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata forma genuina ‘extra’), explore its origins, uses, and how it can enhance your life in ways you might not expect.
Ylang Ylang
Common Name: Ylang Ylang
Botanical Name: Cananga odorata forma genuina ‘extra’ (syn. Unona odorantissium)
Family: Anonaciae (sometimes Unona odorantissium)
Plant Part: Flowers
Extraction Method: Steam distillation, CO2 extraction, hexane extraction
The Origin
Ylang Ylang, also known as the "flower of flowers," originates from the lush tropical regions of Asia, specifically Indonesia and the Philippines. This exotic plant thrives in warm climates and is integral to the biodiversity of these regions.
A closely related sub-species, Cananga odorata var. macrophylla, commonly known as “Cananga” oil, is native to the same regions. However, it produces a woodier and less refined fragrance compared to the elegance of Ylang Ylang, making Cananga oil more suitable for general applications rather than high-end perfumery.
What sets Ylang Ylang oil apart is its unique production method, involving fractionation. This process allows the oil to be separated into different grades:
- Ylang Ylang Extra/Super Extra: The first fraction of distillation (approximately 40%) is the most aromatic and commands the highest price, often used in luxury perfumery.
- Ylang Ylang 1°, 2°, and 3°: Successive fractions with heavier sesquiterpene components. Ylang Ylang 3° is the most economical and has a deeper aroma.
Blending fractions is a common practice in the industry, resulting in varying qualities labelled as "pure Ylang Ylang." Additionally, Ylang Ylang is available as a complete distillation, which is ideal for aromatherapy.
Modern advancements have introduced CO2 extraction for Ylang Ylang, yielding an exquisite product with a rich and complex fragrance profile.
Ylang Ylang in Aromatherapy
Known for its captivating aroma and versatility, Ylang Ylang is a staple in aromatherapy. Its uplifting scent is both calming and invigorating, making it an essential oil that bridges relaxation and euphoria.
Whether in its “extra” form or as a complete distillation, Ylang Ylang oil continues to enchant users worldwide with its delicate balance of floral, fruity, and spicy notes.
History of Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang has a rich cultural and historical significance, particularly in Southeast Asia. While its therapeutic use does not have a long recorded history, it has been a staple in traditional practices for centuries due to its alluring fragrance and beneficial properties.
In the Maluku Islands of Indonesia, Ylang Ylang has been traditionally crafted into ointments, often combined with curcuma flowers, which belong to the ginger family. These ointments were used for various purposes, including cosmetic and hair care, as well as to treat skin diseases. Additionally, Ylang Ylang was believed to have medicinal qualities, helping to prevent fevers and combat infections.
The therapeutic potential of Ylang Ylang began to catch the attention of Western researchers in the late 1800s, particularly by French physicians and chemists. They recognised its properties and began recommending Ylang Ylang oil for the treatment of serious ailments such as typhus, malaria, and other infectious fevers. It was also used to address gastrointestinal issues, including intestinal infections, diarrhea, and flatulence. As its therapeutic benefits became more apparent, Ylang Ylang oil earned a place in clinical settings, with its sedative and hypotensive effects being noted, making it an important component of alternative medicine.
The diverse uses and widespread popularity of Ylang Ylang have ensured its place in both traditional and modern wellness practices, with its remarkable ability to support both physical and emotional health.
Traditional Uses
In the Maluku Islands of Indonesia, Ylang Ylang is traditionally combined with curcuma flowers (from the ginger family) to create ointments. These preparations are used to:
- Enhance hair care
- Prevent skin diseases
- Reduce fever and combat infections
19th Century Research
In the late 1800s, French physicians and chemists began exploring Ylang Ylang oil's therapeutic potential. They recommended it for:
- Treating typhus, malaria, and other infectious fevers.
- Relieving intestinal infections, diarrhea, and flatulence.
Further clinical use in France highlighted its sedative and hypotensive effects, making it a valuable remedy for stress and hypertension.
Principal Constituents of Ylang Ylang Oil
The unique properties of Ylang Ylang oil come from its diverse chemical makeup. Below is a breakdown of the key constituents in the Ylang Ylang Extra (A) and Complete Distillation (B):
| Component Type | Key Constituents | Concentration |
| C10 Terpenes | α-pinene | A: <0.3%; B: Trace levels |
| C15 Terpenes | β-carophyllene, α-humulene, δ-cadinene, α-copaene | A: <2%; B: <6%; other sesquiterpenes A: <8%; B: <27% |
| C10 Alcohols | Linalool, nerol, geraniol | Linalool (A: <12%; B: <8%), Nerol (A: <1.3%; B: <2.3%), Geraniol (A: <0.7%; B: <0.9%) |
| C15 Alcohols | Farnesol | A: <2%; B: <1.6% |
| Esters | Geranyl acetate, methyl benzoate, benzyl acetate | Benzyl acetate (A: <28%; B: <14%), Methyl benzoate (A: <9%; B: <4.6%) |
| Ethers | ρ-cresyl methyl ether | A: <10%; B: <6% |
| Property | Application |
| Anti-spasmodic, Calming and Sedative, Euphoric, “Harmonising” | Alleviates anxiety, depression, and insomnia; helps with heart palpitations, tachycardia, hypernoea (rapid breathing), stress-related hypertension and balances "choleric" temperaments. |
| Euphoric and Sexual Tonic | Relieves emotional tension, addresses frigidity, impotence, low sexual interest, and supports uterine health and PMS with depression. |
| Mild Anti-infectious | Aids in treating skin infections, wounds, and burns. |
| Pancreatic Stimulant (Endocrine) | Supports pancreatic function and may assist in managing diabetes. |
Skin Benefits
Ylang Ylang oil is prized for its balancing and restorative effects on the skin:
- Sebum Regulation: Helps balance oil production, making it effective for both oily and dry skin.
- Hair and Scalp Health: Acts as a tonic and stimulant, promoting luxurious hair growth.
- Skin Infections: Supports the healing of acne and various skin infections.
- Insect Relief: Soothes insect bites and stings.
Energetics
Ylang Ylang is not traditionally recognised in either Eastern or Western energetic systems, but its effects align well with "Yin" qualities, offering cooling and calming properties. Here's how it interacts with the body's energy systems:
- Cooling & Soothing: Ylang Ylang helps to cool the "fire" of stress, anger, and related emotional states, offering both relaxation and upliftment. Its euphoric effects stimulate the sacral centre, aiding in relieving depression.
- Balances Excessive Yang Energy: Known for its cooling nature, Ylang Ylang soothes excessive Yang conditions, easing stress, anxiety, heart palpitations, and hypertension.
- Emotional Release & Balance: The oil works to release emotional "constraint," particularly addressing anger and depression. It helps open the emotional blockages that hinder the expression of sensuality and sexuality, supporting relaxation and emotional release.
- Sacral & Heart Centers: Primarily influencing the sacral and heart centres, Ylang Ylang is ideal for addressing emotional blockages in these areas, especially in matters of the heart and sensuality.
Chakra Affinity
- Heart Chakra: Ylang Ylang opens the heart, nurturing love, compassion, and emotional balance.
- Sacral Chakra: Stimulates sensuality and emotional connection, easing sexual blockages.
- Base Chakra: Grounds and stabilises, fostering a sense of security and well-being.
Mind Benefits
Ylang Ylang has a profound impact on mental and emotional well-being:
- Emotional Resolution: Helps resolve emotions like anger, anxiety, shock, panic, fear, impatience, and irritability.
- Creates Peace: Promotes a sense of inner peace and calm.
- Sensual & Soothing: The oil's soothing and sensual qualities contribute to relaxation and emotional harmony.
- Anti-Depressive: Its uplifting effects help alleviate depressive symptoms and bring a sense of joy and elation to the body.
- Sexual Stimulation: Acts as a stimulant for the sexual chakra, promoting vitality and relaxation in intimate areas.
- Post-Caesarean Support: Ylang Ylang is also beneficial after a caesarean, instilling feelings of warmth, togetherness, and emotional bonding.
Kinesiology and Meridians
Ylang Ylang has been observed to influence specific muscles and meridians:
| Muscle | Meridian |
| Supraspinatus | Central |
| Pectoralis Major Clavicular | Stomach |
| Latissimus Dorsi | Spleen |
| Subscapularis | Heart |
| Gluteus Medius | Circulation / Sex |
Safety Profile
- Contraindications: None at usual doses.
- Toxicity: Rated 3 on the toxicity scale, Ylang Ylang is considered very safe with no specific toxicity concerns.
Ylang Ylang's unique blend of calming, euphoric, and uplifting qualities makes it a valuable oil in both emotional and physical healing practices.
End Note: A Flower with Endless Possibilities
From its enchanting fragrance to its myriad therapeutic benefits, Ylang Ylang truly lives up to its name as the “flower of flowers.” Whether you’re looking to de-stress, boost your skin’s radiance, or simply enjoy its sensual aroma, this versatile oil has something for everyone.
So, why not give Ylang Ylang essential oils a try? At Amrita Court Global, we offer a wide selection of high-quality, organic essential oils that are infused with the purest form of Ylang Ylang. Add it to your collection today and discover the endless possibilities this vibrant flower has to offer!