What can ylang ylang essential oil be used for?

What is ylang ylang essential oil?

Ylang ylang essential oil, pronounced “Ee-lang Ee-lang,” receives its common name from the repetition of the Tagalog word “ilang,” meaning “wilderness,” which is where the tree is naturally found. The wilderness to which it is native or in which it is cultivated includes the tropical rainforests of the Philippines, Indonesia, Java, Sumatra, Comoro, and Polynesia. The ylang ylang tree, scientifically identified as the Cananga odorata botanical, is also sometimes referred to as The Fragrant Cananga, The Perfume Tree, and The Macassar Oil Plant.

Ylang ylang essential oil is derived from the steam distillation of the plant’s sea star-shaped flowering parts. It is known to have a scent that can be described as sweetly and delicately floral and fresh with a fruity nuance.

The main chemical constituents of ylang ylang essential oil are: linalool, geranyl acetate, germacrene-d, beta-caryophyllene, benzyl acetate, geraniol, methyl p-cresol, methyl benzoate, geranyl acetate, farnasene, and benzyl benzoate.

Benefits of ylang ylang essential oil

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.

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.

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.