Ylang-Ylang

Also Known As:  Cananga Ororata var. genuina.

Grown commercially in the Philippines and Reunion Island, the essential oil of Ylang-Ylang is processed from a small, fresh green tinged yellow or pink flower, found on the cananga tree.

Home Remedies using Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil:

Benefits of Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil:

Ylang-Ylang was long used by the Asians to treat skin complaints like bug bites, skin inflammations, added to hair rinses, and to relieve excess body temperatures and infections.

The scent of ylang-ylang is often associated with romance, and is used by some as an aphrodisiac.

Ylang-Ylang essential oil has a strong floral scent that is often compared to the easily recognizable scents of narcissus and hyacinth. Essential oil of ylang-ylang has a calming, almost hypnotic, affect. 

In fact, ylang-ylang seems to be much more beneficial on the emotions than it does on the body. 

Ylang-Ylang also works very well as a skin and hair tonic.  Added to hair rinses and face washes, ylang-ylang is good for skin and hair therapy.

When ylang-ylang is used as a tool for aromatherapy, it is known for aphrodisiac and mood enhancement qualities.

Ylang-Ylang essential oil works well blended with other essential oils, and/or carrier oils, so that it can be used for massage therapy. 

Another good use is to add a few drops added to a warm bath, or in simmer pots or diffusers for aromatherapy.   

A few drops of ylang-ylang essential oil added to cream or lotion bases works well, and gives them a great aroma.  Many people use this instead of cologne or perfume.

Side Effects of Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil:

Ylang-Ylang essential oil, as is the case with almost all essential oil, should be diluted and used in moderation. 

The scent of ylang-ylang is very potent, and would probably be more pleasant aesthetically when diluted as well. 

Never take essential oils internally without consulting an accredited herbologist or aromatherapist. 

Never apply undiluted essential oils onto your skin without first checking to be sure it is not a skin irritant.

Ylang-Ylang essential oil is not recommended for pregnant women, or anyone with serious medical conditions such as epilepsy, cancer, or have any major organ problems. 

Extreme care should be taken before using any essential oils with children. 

Any time aromatherapy is begun, a skin patch test should be conducted to rule out any sensitivity and signs of sensitization should be continually watched for.