Are you feeling down? Stressed out? In need of a natural mood boost? Look no further than the enchanting benefits of Ylang-Ylang! This aromatic essential oil doesn’t just smell heavenly; it’s also backed by scientific research. From uplifting your mood and reducing depression to alleviating anxiety and promoting relaxation, this oil is a powerhouse. Not only that, it has some surprising perks like regulating oil production in the skin and scalp. Get ready to embark on a fragrant journey of self-care with the Benefits of Ylang-Ylang![1]
Ylang-Ylang is the common name for Cananga oderata. The essential oil that is extracted from the flowers is also called ylang-ylang. It is steam distilled from the flowers.
But what are the benefits of of this enchanting oil? Keep reading to find out about this amazing oil and the plant it is derived from.
The benefits of ylang-ylang essential oil include its use as an antidepressant, aphrodisiac, antiseptic, and for its calming properties. It is also highly sought after because it is said to have positive effects on the skin and hair.
Cananga oderata is known as the perfume tree. It is native to India and now grows throughout Southeast Asia and even into Australia. The tree can grow to heights up to 80 feet tall, although the average height is around 40 feet.
Wikipedia states, “The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. It is believed to relieve high blood pressure and normalize sebum secretion for skin problems and is considered to be an aphrodisiac. The oil is widely used in perfumery for oriental- or floral-themed perfumes (such as Chanel No. 5). It blends well with most floral, fruit, and wood scents.”
In Indonesia, ylang-ylang flowers are spread on the bed of newlywed couples. In the Philippines, its flowers, together with the flowers of the Sampaguita, are strung into a necklace (lei) worn by women, and used to adorn religious images.
In the Malay Language, Ylang-Ylang means “Flower of Flowers” and in some areas of SE Asia, the blossoms are spread on the beds of newlyweds so that their intoxicating aroma will relax and bring joy to the young lovers and arouse their passions. In aromatherapy, the essential oil has been described as calming the mind and heart and gently lifting the mood and spirits. At the same time, it’s been said to have a grounding and stabilizing effect when there has been emotional upset or trauma. As you may guess from the traditional use of the flowers, some people consider the essential oil to have gentle aphrodisiac effects.
Benefits Of Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
Skin and Hair
When applied to the skin and hair, ylang-ylang essential oil can help to balance sebum production to prevent oily skin and hair. Additionally, it can help to relieve irritation and inflammation.
Balancing the oil production of the skin can help relieve oily skin on the face and scalp. This can also effectively help with acne since sebum overproduction can be a major cause of acne outbreaks. Its antiseptic qualities also help to kill the bacteria which cause acne.
When sebum production in the scalp is balanced and blood flow is increased to the scalp it can also help relieve dry scalp which can result in dandruff.
It also helps to relieve irritation and inflammation of the skin. It promotes increased blood flow to the skin to help maintain skin health and promote healing. It helps to condition the skin, maintain hydration, and promote the growth of new skin cells and hair.
To use it for the hair and scalp you can add a few drops to a carrier oil such as coconut oil and massage it into the scalp. You can also add a few drops to your favorite conditioner and use it as you normally would.
To use it for your skin you can simply add a few drops diluted in a carrier oil such as jojoba or grapeseed oil and massage the skin to absorb the oil to help give your skin a youthful glow.
Enhances Mood
One of the main constituents of ylang-ylang essential oil is the naturally occurring chemical linalool. Linalool has been proven to promote relaxation, and it has a natural sedative effect. This gives it a natural antidepressant and anti-anxiety effect as well.
Research has shown that one of the benefits is that it may help you to release negative emotions. This means it may help you let go of emotions such as jealousy, or anger, and can help increase self-esteem. If you are having feelings of mild depression it has been found to be able to uplift your emotions and self-esteem to help you fight against those negative feelings. It has also been found to have a natural energizing and uplifting effect.
It also has a natural anti-anxiety effect which makes it well suited to help you deal with minor anxiety, such as might happen when faced with a difficult situation. Place a drop on your shirt collar or inhale a few times directly from the bottle before entering a situation that will increase your anxiety.
These effects can be enjoyed by diffusing it using a diffuser, or by applying it to the skin over the wrists or the neck. You can also simply take a few inhalations straight from the bottle to give you a quick boost to your mood.
Benefits of Ylang-Ylang For Sleep
Since ylang-ylang has a mild sedative effect, it is also sometimes used by those suffering from insomnia. We all know that getting a good night’s sleep is beneficial to our overall health, both physically and emotionally. Healthy sleep allows your body and mind to recharge and repair themselves.
Linalool is present in both ylang-ylang and lavender essential oils. Lavender is known as being useful for inhalation to help those with insomnia or stress to get to sleep. By using ylang-ylang in the same way, you can take advantage of the mild sedative properties to help you fall asleep. It also mixes well with lavender, so you might appreciate a combined scent using them together. Just add a few drops of each oil to a diffuser beside your bed or to a cotton ball placed close to where you are sleeping. This may help you get a restful night of sleep without resorting to chemical sleep aids.
Circulatory Health
It is known to be an excellent choice to help improve blood flow and circulation. It has been found that it can also help with heart health as well. It has anti-inflammatory properties in addition to helping improve blood flow. Inflammation plays a role in many disease processes, including high blood pressure. By helping to decrease inflammation it may actually help to decrease blood pressure.
Stress also plays a role in heart health. By decreasing stress and inflammation it can help to promote heart health. You can add a single drop to a small amount of carrier oil such as jojoba or apricot oil and massage it directly to the skin over the heart daily to enjoy the benefits for heart health.
Benefits of Ylang-Ylang For Sexual Dysfunction
Ylang-ylang is considered a mild aphrodisiac and in fact, above we touched on the fact that the flower petals are spread on the beds of newlyweds in Indonesia to enhance passion on the wedding night.
It is known to enhance the libido of both men and women. It can be used to enhance the feeling of longing and passion for couples who may be experiencing issues in the bedroom. It has even been studied as a natural alternative for men experiencing erectile dysfunction.
There are several ways to use the benefits of ylang-ylang for romance. One way is to diffuse the scent in the bedroom with a diffuser, placing a few drops on a cotton ball next to the bed, or a few drops on the pillowcases. Another more “hands-on” approach is to add a few drops to a carrier oil and give your partner a sensual massage. This is a sure way to increase the closeness and intimacy of a relationship.
Cautions
Before using this or any essential oil on the skin you should do a patch test. Blend the oil with a carrier oil and place a drop on the inside of your forearm. Wait 24 hours to ensure you don’t develop a reaction.
If you have any existing medical condition always consult your physician prior to using any essential oil. Pregnant and nursing women should also consult their physician. Finally, do not use any essential oil with children without the advice of a physician or the guidance of a professional aromatherapist. Note: Most MLM salespeople are NOT trained in the proper use and adverse reactions that may occur by using or misusing essential oils. Please do your own research and do not take the word of any essential oil MLM salesperson on how to use essential oils.
Conclusion
The captivating benefits of Ylang-Ylang make it an indispensable addition to your aromatherapy arsenal. Its uplifting aroma can boost your mood, reduce depression, and alleviate anxiety. Furthermore, it has the remarkable ability to lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate, and stimulate oil production in the skin and scalp. Whether you seek relaxation, emotional balance, or a natural skincare solution, Ylang-Ylang offers a fragrant and effective remedy. Harness the power of this enchanting essential oil and elevate your well-being to new heights.
Be sure and check out our list of articles for more great info on aromatherapy and essential oils.
FAQs:
Q: What is the ylang-ylang essential oil used for?
A: Ylang-ylang essential oil is widely used for its numerous benefits. It is commonly used to boost mood, reduce depression, alleviate anxiety, lower blood pressure, and decrease heart rate. Additionally, it can stimulate oil production in the skin and scalp, making it useful for skincare and haircare purposes.
Q: What mixes well with ylang-ylang?
A: It blends harmoniously with several essential oils. It pairs well with floral oils such as lavender, jasmine, and geranium. It also complements citrus oils like bergamot and grapefruit, as well as woody oils such as sandalwood and cedarwood. Experimenting with different combinations can create unique and appealing aromas.
Q: How many drops of it do I put in a diffuser?
A: The number of drops depends on the size of your diffuser and personal preference. As a general guideline, start with 3-5 drops in a standard-sized diffuser (100-200ml). Adjust the amount based on your scent preference, ensuring it is not overpowering or overwhelming.
Q: Does ylang-ylang help you sleep?
A: Yes, it is known for its calming properties and can promote relaxation, which may aid in improving sleep quality. Its soothing aroma can help create a peaceful atmosphere conducive to restful sleep. Consider diffusing ylang-ylang or incorporating it into your bedtime routine for a more tranquil sleep experience.
Q: Can I mix lavender and ylang-ylang?
A: Absolutely! Lavender and ylang-ylang make a delightful combination. Lavender is renowned for its relaxing properties, while ylang-ylang adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the blend. Together, they can create a calming and soothing aroma, perfect for relaxation and stress relief.
Q: What is the difference between ylang-ylang and ylang-ylang 3?
A: The term “ylang-ylang 3” refers to a specific grade or fraction of ylang-ylang essential oil. Ylang-ylang essential oil goes through a fractional distillation process to produce different grades or fractions, commonly labeled as extra, I, II, and III. Ylang-ylang 3 is the last fraction collected during the distillation process and has a lighter, more delicate aroma compared to the earlier fractions.
Q: What scent goes well with ylang-ylang?
A: It pairs well with various scents. Some popular combinations include blending it with floral oils like rose or geranium for a complex floral bouquet. It also blends beautifully with citrus oils such as bergamot or grapefruit for a fresh and uplifting aroma. Additionally, it can be combined with woody oils like sandalwood or cedarwood to add depth and warmth to the fragrance.
Q: What are the spiritual benefits of ylang-ylang?
A: It is often associated with spiritual and emotional well-being. It is believed to have properties that can help balance and harmonize the mind, body, and spirit.