Exclusive Guide to Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
Cananga Odorata
Origin: Madagascar
Distilled part: Flowers
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Cultivation: Certified Organic farming
Botanically and Biochemically Defined Essential Oil (HEBBD), chemotyped (HECT)
Color: Pale yellow to dark yellow
Scent: Sweet flowery and exotic scent.
Note: Base note
Plant Family: Annonaceae
SUPER POWERS
Antidepressant
- lifts the symptoms of depression such as low moods and sadness
Anti-inflammatory
- reduces inflammation and swelling
Antiseptic
- prevents or combats bacterial infection
Antispasmodic
- prevents or relieves spasms
Calmative
- sedative calming effect
Hypotensive
- lowering the blood pressure
Nervine
- strengthens and tones the nerves and the nervous system
Sedative
- reduces mental excitement or irritability, and reduces physical activity
Tonic
- refreshes, revitalizes and invigorates body functions
USAGE TIPS
Aphrodisiac
Ylang ylang is a very popular aphrodisiac in the West, diffuse it in your bedroom, with 5-8 drops, or make a body oil or cream with 4 drops in 1 tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil and massage into the chest, shoulders, front and back of the neck, and arms.
Acne
Apply 1 drop of ylang ylang oil directly onto the pimple using a cotton bud. Repeat twice daily. The oil helps to draw out any impurities from pimples. (FYI the pimple might get worse before it gets better as the impurities are drawn out faster, but it will heal at a faster rate.)
Dry skin
Mix 4 drops of ylang ylang oil with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of coconut oil and massage into the skin. Leave the oil on the skin to absorb. Repeat regularly as part of your skincare routine. This works well on oily skin as well. Ylang ylang oil helps to balance sebum production in the skin.
High blood pressure
Ylang ylang helps to reduce high blood pressure. Diffuse 5 drops of the oil, or mix 4 drops with 1 tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil ad add to a bath. Soak for 20 minutes. Repeat no more than 2 times per week.
Anti-inflammatory
Make a body oil with 6 drops of ylang ylang per 15ml carrier oil and massage it onto the area of concern.
Calm fast heartbeat
Inhale or make a body oil, slowing a racing heart and reducing stress. Mix 2 drops of ylang ylang oil with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil, massage over the heart area. Feel the calming and sedative properties of ylang ylang.
Worry or fear
Diffuse 4 drops of ylang ylang, or inhale it; put 2 drops on a tissue and inhale regularly. Ylang ylang has a sedative action on the autonomic nervous system, and will instil a sense of peace and calm to a worrying or fearful situation.
Healthy hair
Add 5 drops of ylang ylang oil to 60 ml of organic shampoo or conditioner to promote healthy, shiny, lustrous hair.
Anger
Because ylang ylang regulate the flow of adrenaline in our body, the oil is excellent to use if you need to calm down after a difficult situation. Diffuse 5 drops, or apply 3 drops on a tissue, and inhale several times an hour until you start to feel more calm and relaxed.
Insomnia
Add 4 drops of ylang ylang to 1 teaspoon of carrier oil, and massage onto your body. Helps to promote a good night's sleep by relaxing the mind and body.
Grief
Diffuse 5 drops of ylang ylang, or apply 2-3 drops on a tissue and inhale throughout the day. Because of Ylang ylang's sedative and calming effect on the body, it is a useful treatment in times of grief.
Miracle Hair Treatment
Create a miracle moisturizing hair treatment with 4-6 drops of ylang ylang essential oil mixed with 1-2 teaspoons (5-10ml) of coconut or jojoba oil. Massage the mixture into your hair, cover with a shower cap, and let it work its magic overnight. It’s also great for promoting hair growth!
Promote Circulation
Mix 6 drops of ylang ylang essential oil in 30ml of carrier oil and massage on the body. Massage in the direction to the heart.
PMS or Menopause
To relieve PMS or Menopause symptoms, add 3 drops of ylang ylang oil with 1 drop each of bergamot, sandalwood, geranium, and lavender essential oil in an aroma diffuser.
Food
Food flavoring (FEMA n°: 3119 / CoE n°: 103n)
Food dosage : 1 drop in a dish for 5 people (never exceed 2%)
Always use essential oil diluted in a suitable medium (example: vegetable oil, honey, etc.)
Skin type
Ylang ylang can be used alone or in blends for these skin types:
- Aging
- Oily
- Blemished skin (pimples, acne)
Skincare
Benefits of Using Organic Ylang Ylang Essential Oil in Skincare:
Balancing Sebum Production
- For Oily Skin: Ylang Ylang helps regulate the production of sebum, making it beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
- For Dry Skin: It also balances sebum production in dry skin, preventing excessive dryness and flakiness.
Antiseptic and Anti-inflammatory Properties
- Acne Treatment: Its antiseptic properties help cleanse and purify the skin, reducing the likelihood of acne and infections.
- Soothing Irritation: The anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritation and redness, making it ideal for sensitive skin conditions such as eczema and rosacea.
Hydration and Moisturization
- Deep Moisturization: Ylang Ylang essential oil provides deep hydration, making the skin soft, supple, and smooth. Add a few drops to your face cream or oil.
- Preventing Dryness: It helps in maintaining moisture balance, preventing the skin from becoming dry and rough.
Anti-aging Benefits
Applying this oil to the skin is a popular method for maintaining a youthful glow and preventing signs of aging or irritation. It is also effective in combating the development of skin cancer cells and melanoma.
Ylang Ylang essential oil is great for your skin because it has a lot of active ingredients called terpenoids. These natural compounds have shown to be very effective in treating different skin issues.
When tested on skin cancer cells, these compounds from Ylang Ylang oil can stop the growth of harmful cells and protect healthy skin cells. This is because the antioxidants in the oil help protect your skin from damage that can lead to cancer. (see resource here)
Mix one to two drops of Ylang Ylang oil with coconut or jojoba oil and gently massage it into your face once or twice a day. This can help protect your skin and keep it healthy.
- Promotes Cell Regeneration: Ylang Ylang stimulates the growth of new cells, which can help repair damaged skin and reduce the appearance of scars.
- Antioxidant Properties: Rich in antioxidants, it helps combat free radicals, which can cause premature aging and skin damage.
Method of use & Amount to use
Aroma diffusers
Use 5-15 drops in your diffuser or the amount suggested with your diffuser.
Baths, Hot tubs, Jacuzzis
Bath: Diluted 3-8 drops
Start by running your bath as you normally would and keep the bathroom door closed to retain the aroma. Essential oils can be applied directly in their concentrated form or diluted.
For dilution, use a carrier oil, milk, milk powder, vegetable glycerin, seaweed powder, herbal powder, baking soda, salt, or Epsom salts to prevent skin sensitivity.
Add the essential oil to the bathwater, either neat or diluted, then stir the water with your hand to disperse the oil evenly before entering the tub. This method helps distribute the essential oil throughout the bath for a more enjoyable experience.
Hot tubs & Jacuzzis: up to 8 drops
Mix the essential oil into the water thoroughly using your hand. Since essential oils do not dissolve in water, they may leave residues in or around your pipes.
Compresses
3-10 drops in 120 ml of water
Learn more
Face masks, oils, and tonic
Face masks: 1 or 2 drops per 2 tbs. (15ml) of natural facemask.
Face oils: 12 drops in 30ml of carrier oil. For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Use a dark-colored glass bottle, which helps protect your oils from light degradation. First, pour in the carrier oil. If you’re using a single essential oil or a premixed blend, add it directly to the carrier oil. If you’re crafting your own unique blend, mix your essential oils together first, then integrate the desired number of drops into the carrier oil. Remember, a little goes a long way, so only use a small amount for each application. Click here to read more about which carrier oil to choose.
Face tonic: 8-15 drops in 100ml of spring or distilled water or hydrosol.
Combine the oil and water before filtering through an unbleached paper coffee filter.
Our 100% organic and natural hydrosols can be used directly as a tonic. Shut your eyes and spray your face. Or spray a cotton pad and wipe your face with it.
Inhalation from bowl
3-5 drops per bowl of steaming hot water.
To use essential oils in steam inhalation, start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and then removing it from the heat. Add a few drops (typically 3-5 drops) of your chosen essential oil to the hot water.
Carefully lean over the pot, drape a towel over your head and the pot to trap the steam, and breathe deeply for several minutes to inhale the aromatic vapors, which can help relieve nasal congestion and other respiratory issues.
Lotions & Creams
12 drops to each 30 ml of natural, unfragranced lotion or cream.
You can make your own face cream with our neutral face cream as a base. For a 2% (adults) dilution use 40 drops in this 100 ml cream base.
For elderly and children use 20 drops (1%) in 100ml of cream.
Massage oil (for body)
12 drops to each 30 ml of carrier oil.
For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Pillows
Place 1-3 drops of essential oil on the corner or underside of a pillow away from the eyes.
Room sprays
As room purifier: 10-20 drops per 475 ml of water.
As a general fragrance: 8-10 drops per 475 ml of water.
Scalp treatments
Add 6 drops in 15 ml of Jojoba oil or aloe vera gel. Shake well. Use 2-3 drops of your prepared blend for each application. Massage into your scalp. Alternatively, simply add the essential oil to a bottle of final rinse water after washing the hair.
Shampoos
5-10 drops in 100ml.
Essential oils can be added to any unscented shampoo that is composed of organic natural ingredients.
Showers
1-5 drops.
First, complete your usual washing routine. After that, apply a few drops of essential oil onto a washcloth or sponge and briskly rub it over your body while standing under the shower's running water. Inhale deeply through your nose to enjoy the aromatic steam, being careful to avoid applying the oil on your face and sensitive areas.
Sprays & Mists for Face and Body
For body: 10-20 drops to each 475 ml of water or hydrosol.
For face: 2-5 drops to each 240 ml of water or hydrosol.
Add the essential oil to warm water or hydrosol. Shake thoroughly, pour through an unbleached paper coffee filter, and place in a spray bottle. Cool before using.
Shake before each use.
Keep eyes closed when spraying the face.
Washes
15-32 drops in 240 ml of warm water.
A wash is a prepared mixture for washing infected areas such as cuts, grazes, and wounds.
Mix the essential oils and water together in a bottle and shake well. Keep it stored in the fridge for no longer than 14 days. Shake before each use.
Aromatherapy's Base Notes:
Aromas categorized as base notes are usually heavy and soothing. They evaporate slowly, and their scent can last for up to a week. They have a very powerful impact on the mind and emotions, making them ideal when mental and emotional calm is needed. Base notes can heal the body from the inside out and treat a wide range of ailments, from dry skin to circulatory or digestive issues. They can also strengthen a weak immune system and have a sexually stimulating effect.
Typical Base Notes:
Woody oils:
Cedarwood, Patchouli, Sandalwood, Rosewood
Powerful floral oils:
Neroli, Rose, Jasmine
Resin oils:
Frankincense, Myrrh, Benzoin
Blend | Top note | Middle note | Base note |
---|---|---|---|
Refreshing | 5 drops | 4 drops | 1 drop |
Relaxing | 1 drop | 6 drops | 3 drops |
Sensual | 1 drop | 4 drops | 5 drops |
Balancing | 2 drops | 5 drops | 3 drops |
Energizing | 8 drops | 1 drop | 1 drop |
ANNONACEAE PLANT FAMILY
The Annonaceae family, also known as the custard apple family, is a diverse and widespread group of flowering plants. Here’s a closer look at what makes this family unique and significant:
Diversity: The Annonaceae family consists of about 130 genera and over 2,400 species, making it one of the largest families of flowering plants.
Distribution: These plants are predominantly found in tropical regions around the world, with a high concentration in Central and South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Characteristics
Flowers: Annonaceae plants typically have large, fragrant flowers. These flowers often feature three sepals and six petals, arranged in two whorls.
Leaves: The leaves are simple, alternate, and usually have a smooth edge. They are often aromatic when crushed.
Fruit: The fruits of Annonaceae are often fleshy and edible, with some species producing large, aggregate fruits.
Notable Genera and Species
Annona: This genus includes several well-known fruits like the cherimoya (Annona cherimola), soursop (Annona muricata), and custard apple (Annona reticulata). These fruits are popular for their creamy texture and sweet flavor.
Asimina: Native to North America, this genus includes the pawpaw (Asimina triloba), which produces the largest edible fruit indigenous to the continent.
Cananga: This genus is famous for the ylang ylang tree (Cananga odorata), whose flowers are distilled to produce ylang ylang essential oil, widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy.
Ecological and Economic Importance
Ecological Role
Annonaceae plants play a crucial role in tropical ecosystems. Their fruits provide food for various animals, and their flowers are often pollinated by beetles and other insects.
Economic Value: Many species in this family have significant economic importance due to their edible fruits and essential oils. Fruits like cherimoya, soursop, and pawpaw are cultivated for their unique flavors and nutritional benefits. Ylang ylang oil is a valuable commodity in the fragrance and cosmetic industries.
Medicinal Uses
Traditional Medicine: Various parts of Annonaceae plants, including leaves, bark, and roots, are used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as fevers, digestive issues, and infections.
Modern Research: Recent studies have focused on the potential anticancer properties of compounds found in some Annonaceae species, highlighting their potential in pharmaceutical applications.
The Annonaceae family is a fascinating group of plants with significant ecological, economic, and medicinal value. From delicious fruits to aromatic essential oils, these plants offer a wealth of benefits and continue to be an important part of tropical biodiversity and human culture.
Ylang Ylang Blends Well With These Essential Oils
Basil, Bay laurel, bergamot, black pepper, cananga, cinnamon leaf, clove bud, coriander ceed, eucalyptus lemon, frankincense, ginger, grapefruit, jasmine, lavender, lemon, linden blossom, magnolia flower, magnolia leaf, mandarin, may cheng, neroli, palmarosa, orange sweet, patchouli, petitgrain, rose otto, rose maroc, rosewood, sandalwood, spikenard, tangerine, tuberose, vetiver, yuzu.
The Main Chemical Composition of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
Ylang Ylang essential oil is known for its rich and complex aroma, which is attributed to its diverse chemical composition. The three main chemical components of Ylang Ylang essential oil are:
1. Linalool
Percentage: Typically constitutes 20-30% of the oil.
Properties: Linalool is known for its calming and relaxing properties. It has a pleasant floral scent and is often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety.
Benefits: Linalool has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and sedative effects. It is also beneficial for skin health due to its antimicrobial properties.
2. Germacrene D
Percentage: Generally makes up 10-20% of the oil.
Properties: Germacrene D contributes to the woody and spicy notes of Ylang Ylang oil. It is a sesquiterpene that provides a grounding and balancing effect.
Benefits: Germacrene D has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the skin from oxidative stress and promote overall skin health.
3. Benzyl Acetate
Percentage: Usually around 10-15% of the oil.
Properties: Benzyl acetate is responsible for the sweet, floral, and fruity aroma of Ylang Ylang essential oil. It is a common ingredient in perfumes and fragrances.
Benefits: Benzyl acetate has sedative and calming effects, making it useful in reducing stress and promoting relaxation. It also has antimicrobial properties, which can help in maintaining healthy skin.
These three components—Linalool, Germacrene D, and Benzyl Acetate—are key to the therapeutic and aromatic qualities of Ylang Ylang essential oil, making it a popular choice in both aromatherapy and skincare.
What are Chemotypes in Essential Oils?
Chemotypes in essential oils refer to the different chemical compositions that can occur in the same plant species due to variations in their growing conditions, harvest times, or geographical locations. These variations lead to the production of essential oils with distinct chemical profiles, each possessing unique therapeutic properties. Understanding chemotypes is crucial for aromatherapy and medicinal applications, as the efficacy and safety of the oils can vary significantly based on their chemical makeup.
Here's a breakdown of what defines a chemotype and why it matters:
1. Genetic and Environmental Influences: A chemotype is often influenced by the plant's environment, such as altitude, climate, and soil composition, as well as genetic factors. These variables can affect which chemical compounds are predominant in the oil.
2. Chemical Composition: Each chemotype of an essential oil will have a dominant chemical compound or set of compounds that characterize it. For example, Rosemary essential oil can be found in several chemotypes, such as cineole, camphor, and verbenone, each named after its principal component, which dictates its therapeutic properties and uses.
3. Therapeutic Properties: The presence of different chemical compounds means that each chemotype can be more effective for different health concerns. For instance, the cineole chemotype of Rosemary is excellent for respiratory issues due to its expectorant properties, whereas the camphor chemotype is more suited for pain relief and circulatory problems.
4. Safety and Application: Some chemotypes may be safer or more appropriate for certain applications than others. For example, an essential oil chemotype high in ketones might be more neurotoxic and thus used with more caution, particularly around children or pregnant women.
Understanding chemotypes allows us to choose the most appropriate and effective essential oil for specific therapeutic outcomes, ensuring both safety and efficacy in their applications.
Ylang Ylang is Safe to Diffuse around Cats & Dogs
Pet Safe
If you have cats/dogs in the house, these are the recommendations on how to diffuse your essential oils in a safe way: only use 3-4 drops of a particular essential oil in a water based aroma diffuser (UltraSonic).
Use no more than 4-6 drops total if using more than one essential oil, or use the amount in the diffuser recipes.
Be sure your aroma diffuser is in an area where your pet cannot knock it over. Always diffuse in an open area with the door open so your dog can leave the room if desired.
If your cat/dog is sensitive to an oil you are diffusing, stop diffusing and get your cat/dog outside for some fresh air. Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned.
Storage
Essential oils are sensitive to UV: always keep them in their original bottles (amber glass with codigoutte).
We advise you to store them in a cool place without light after opening.
For your mixtures, cosmetic and culinary preparations, always use a new bottle to avoid interactions.
Disclaimer
This information is intended to educate and inform, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or veterinarian before starting any regime with Essential Oils.