Benefits of Ylang Ylang
One of my favourite essential oils is Ylang Ylang and I use it in some of my Petits Rituels candles and organic essential oil blends. There are numerous benefits attached to this precious flower and while creating the latest batch of my Sensual Healing candle and Sensual Healing essential oil blend I began to think about what Ylang Ylang is used for, hence the subject of this article.
I thought it might be interesting to explore all the health and relaxation benefits it offers (there are so many!) I hope that you too can enjoy the sweet-smelling exotic scent and hopefully feel and enjoy its calming, restorative influences.
Where Does Ylang Ylang Come From?
Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) comes from an attractive yellow-flowered tree which is found in the Far East particularly in the rain forests of certain Asian and South Pacific islands such as Comoro, Indonesia, Philippines, Java, Sumatra and Polynesia. The oil is obtained from the tree’s yellow flowers and used mainly in aromatherapy and toiletries but also in traditional medicine - oh and of course two of my candles! The flowers are removed from the tree and the oil is carefully distilled using a specialised steaming process. The oil is then divided into four different grades (I, II, III and Extra) which determine the strength of the scent. So, the shorter the distillation process, the more intense the aroma. When making my candles I use the finest (and most expensive) grade of Ylang Ylang essential oil because it is intensely sweet, highly floral and ethereal. This powerful scent really soothes the spirit.
So now you all know where it comes from and how the oil is extracted, more importantly, what can it do for you?
Ylang Ylang Is An Aphrodisiac!
Well, did you know that Ylang Ylang is often used as an aphrodisiac? It is found in many different Eau de toilettes and perfumes so is a powerful scent which encourages attention from the opposite sex! It is believed to increase libido and attraction because of its energising properties so light my Sensual Healing candle for a romantic evening for two and see if it works! Ylang Ylang is an excellent example of an essential oil that improves levels of happiness and creates desire! It’s no coincidence that in areas of Asia It is used in marriage ceremonies to represent love. As an aside, if you’re looking for essential oil as an aphrodisiac combine Ylang Ylang with Rose, Neroli, and Jasmine.
It’s A Stress And Depression Reliever!
One of the lesser-known facts about Ylang Ylang is that it is great in shock situations because it is known to reduce stress and slow down a rapidly beating heart so if someone is in shock – this essential oil has a superb relaxing influence. Not only does it alleviate stress symptoms but it is excellent for those who are suffering from depression because it is believed to re-balance energy by restoring peace. It was widely used in ancient medicines to combat a miserable mood because it uplifts the mood and induces a feeling of hope.
It’s An Antiseptic!
Keep a small bottle of Ylang Ylang handy in your medicine cabinet because this essential oil is excellent in protecting wounds from bacterial infections as well as fighting viral infections and fungus. Additionally, it is widely used to help the healing process of cuts and grazes.
It Helps You Sleep!
As we already know, Ylang Ylang has many relaxing properties so is often used to help insomnia because of its sedative nature It calms and reduces nerves and anxiety so induces a deeply relaxed state and can in many cases help those who suffer from sleeplessness enjoy hours of blissful snoozing! Place a couple of drops on your pillow and see if it works for you.
It Relieves Eczema!
Some eczema can be reduced by Ylang Ylang which has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to relieve skin irritation and redness as well as treating eczema as well.
So now you know all about Ylang Ylang you can try it for yourself. The above reasons are why I find Ylang Ylang such a favourable fragrance and I try and use it where I can. You can also find Ylang Ylang in my Sensual Healing candle and Sensual Healing diffuser blend.
Have you tried Ylang Ylang essential oil before and how did you experience it?
Nathalie Allard
Author
Nathalie Allard is an Artisan Perfumer and the founder of Petits Rituels. She’s known for creating beautiful room-transforming 100% natural fragrances with real therapeutic benefits.