If you’ve ever opened a bottle of essential oil and instantly felt calmer, you’ve already experienced the magic of aromatherapy. But among all essential oils, one stands out for its sweet, floral scent and its powerful emotional and physical healing properties—Ylang Ylang oil. Whether you’ve heard about it through skincare lovers, stress-relief enthusiasts, or traditional healing practitioners, this oil has earned its place as a holistic favorite.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about Ylang Ylang oil—what it is, its nutritional profile, science-backed benefits, risks, how to use it, dosage, and even how to make it at home.
What Is Ylang Ylang Oil?
Ylang Ylang oil is an essential oil extracted from the star-shaped yellow flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, commonly known as the Ylang Ylang tree. This tropical tree grows in Southeast Asia and islands like Madagascar, Comoros, and the Philippines. The name itself comes from a Tagalog word, “ilang-ilang,” meaning wilderness or wild, hinting at its natural and exotic origins.
For centuries, Ylang Ylang has been used in traditional medicine, perfumery, and spiritual rituals. In fact, it is one of the key ingredients in iconic fragrances like Chanel No. 5. But beyond its irresistible scent, this oil is known for balancing emotions, lowering stress, and supporting overall wellness.
Ylang Ylang oil is obtained by steam distillation, and depending on the part of the distillation process, different grades are produced:
- Ylang Ylang Extra (highest grade, used in perfumery)
- Ylang Ylang I
- Ylang Ylang II
- Ylang Ylang III
- Ylang Ylang Complete (a blend of all fractions)
Each grade differs slightly in fragrance intensity and uses.
Components of Ylang Ylang Oil
| Nutrient / Compound | Approximate Presence | Role / Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Linalool | High | Reduces stress, supports relaxation |
| Germacrene D | Moderate | Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory |
| Benzyl acetate | High | Sweet floral aroma, calming |
| Caryophyllene | Moderate | Anti-inflammatory, pain relief |
| Farnesene | Low | Antibacterial properties |
| Methyl benzoate | Low | Uplifting fragrance |
| Sesquiterpenes | Moderate | Antioxidant activity |
| Esters | High | Balances mood, soothing |
| Phenols | Low | Antimicrobial effects |
| Alcohols | Moderate | Enhances emotional stability |
20 Proven Benefits of Ylang Ylang Oil
Ylang Ylang isn’t just a fragrance—it’s a wellness tool with surprising therapeutic powers. Here are the most researched and widely known benefits:
1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
The calming aroma of Ylang Ylang helps lower cortisol levels. It promotes relaxation, making it ideal for stress, anxiety, and emotional fatigue.
2. Promotes Better Sleep
Its sedative properties help your mind and body unwind, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
3. Enhances Mood
Ylang Ylang is often called the “oil of happiness” because it uplifts mood and helps reduce irritability, sadness, and low energy.
4. Supports Heart Health
It may help lower heart rate and blood pressure naturally, especially during stressful situations.
5. Acts as a Natural Aphrodisiac
In many cultures, Ylang Ylang is used to enhance intimacy. Its romantic scent relaxes the mind and boosts sensuality.
6. Supports Healthy Skin
Ylang Ylang balances oil production, making it helpful for both oily and dry skin. It is often added to creams and serums for its rejuvenating properties.
7. Fights Acne and Skin Inflammation
Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds may reduce acne-causing bacteria and calm irritated skin.
8. Strengthens Hair and Improves Scalp Health
When diluted, it helps reduce dryness, calm scalp irritation, and promote shinier, smoother hair.
9. Helps Manage High Blood Pressure
Ylang Ylang’s calming effect may naturally support better blood pressure regulation.
10. Boosts Cognitive Performance
Its energizing aroma can enhance focus, alertness, and mental clarity.
11. Acts as an Antidepressant
Its scent stimulates brain chemicals that promote happiness and emotional balance.
12. Helps Reduce Pain
Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties may ease headaches, muscle soreness, and joint discomfort.
13. Supports Hormonal Balance
Some people use it to manage PMS, mood swings, and stress-related hormonal imbalances.
14. May Improve Libido
Traditional healers use it to reignite passion, especially in couples dealing with stress-related intimacy issues.
15. Purifies the Air
Its antimicrobial qualities help reduce airborne bacteria and refresh indoor air.
16. Natural Insect Repellent
Ylang Ylang oil can keep mosquitoes and bugs away when used in diffusers or sprays.
17. Enhances Skin Barrier Function
Its antioxidants support skin repair and protect against free radicals.
18. Supports Wound Healing
Its antibacterial properties may help keep minor wounds clean and reduce the risk of infection.
19. Helps Reduce Nausea
Inhaling the scent may relieve nausea or dizziness, especially during stressful moments.
20. Promotes Relaxation During Massage Therapy
Mixed with a carrier oil, it makes massage deeply soothing, relaxing both the muscles and the mind.
10 Side Effects of Ylang Ylang Oil
Even natural oils can cause issues if used incorrectly. Here are the potential side effects:
1. Skin Irritation
Undiluted Ylang Ylang oil may cause redness, burning, or itching.
2. Allergic Reactions
People with sensitive skin may experience swelling or rashes.
3. Headaches
Strong fragrances may trigger headaches or migraines in sensitive individuals.
4. Nausea
Overusing the oil in a diffuser can sometimes cause nausea or dizziness.
5. Low Blood Pressure
People with already low blood pressure should avoid excessive use.
6. Respiratory Issues
Using too much oil in a small space may cause coughing or breathing difficulty.
7. Hormonal Effects
Pregnant women should use it carefully, as strong oils may influence hormones.
8. Eye Irritation
Getting the oil near the eyes may cause burning or watering.
9. Photosensitivity (Rare)
Ylang Ylang may increase sensitivity to sunlight when applied to skin.
10. Drug Interactions
It may interact with sedatives or blood pressure medications.
How to Use Ylang Ylang Oil?
Ylang Ylang oil can be used in multiple ways depending on your purpose.
1. Aromatherapy
Add 2–3 drops to a diffuser.
Best for stress relief, mood enhancement, and sleep.
2. Topical Application
Always dilute with a carrier oil like coconut, almond, or jojoba oil.
A safe ratio is 1–2 drops of Ylang Ylang per teaspoon of carrier oil.
Ideal for massage, skin care, and hair treatments.
3. Bath Additive
Add 3–4 drops to warm bathwater after mixing with a carrier oil.
Great for relaxation and sleep.
4. Skincare
Mix 1 drop with your moisturizer.
Helps in balancing oil and improving skin texture.
5. Hair Care
Add 1–2 drops to shampoo or hair oil.
Supports scalp health and shine.
Other Uses of Ylang Ylang Oil
- As a natural room freshener
- In DIY perfumes
- In luxury soaps and candles
- As an ingredient in massage oils
- For meditation or spiritual practices
- As a natural deodorant ingredient
Tips for Consuming Ylang Ylang Oil
Generally, Ylang Ylang oil is not recommended for internal consumption, unless under guidance from a qualified aromatherapist. However, here are safety tips:
- Never ingest more than highly diluted amounts.
- Only use food-grade essential oils (rare and expensive).
- Use caution if you have digestive issues.
- Always consult a healthcare provider before internal use.
How to Take Ylang Ylang Oil?
Most people prefer inhalation or topical use. If taking internally (rare):
- Use 1 drop mixed in a large amount of honey, capsule, or beverage.
- Only take under professional guidance.
How to Make Ylang Ylang Oil at Home?
Making true Ylang Ylang essential oil requires specialized steam distillation equipment. But you can make a homemade infused version:
Ingredients:
- Fresh Ylang Ylang flowers
- Carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba oil)
Method:
- Wash and dry the flowers.
- Crush them gently to release aroma.
- Add flowers to a clean glass jar.
- Pour warm carrier oil over them.
- Seal and place in sunlight for 2–3 days.
- Strain and repeat with fresh flowers for a stronger infusion.
This gives you a fragrant infused oil, not a true essential oil.
How Much Ylang Ylang Oil Can You Use Per Day?
- Aromatherapy: Up to 6 drops spread throughout the day.
- Topical use: 1–2 drops diluted.
- Internal use: Not recommended without supervision.
Ylang Ylang Oil Dosage
- Adults: 1–2 drops diluted in carrier oil for topical use.
- Diffusion: 2–4 drops per session.
- Children: Use only under guidance and in very low dilution.
Best Time to Use Ylang Ylang Oil
- Evening: For relaxation and sleep
- Morning: To boost mood and clarity
- Before meditation: To calm the mind
- Before intimacy: To enhance sensuality
Who Should Use Ylang Ylang Oil?
- People dealing with stress or anxiety
- Those with sleep concerns
- Individuals with oily or acne-prone skin
- People who enjoy natural fragrances
- Couples wanting to enhance intimacy
- Anyone looking for natural relaxation tools
Who Should Not Use Ylang Ylang Oil?
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women (unless approved by a doctor)
- Individuals with low blood pressure
- People with fragrance sensitivity
- Children under 6 years (unless extremely diluted)
- Anyone with a history of hormonal disorders
How to Store Ylang Ylang Oil?
To maintain quality:
- Store in a dark glass bottle
- Keep away from sunlight
- Keep the lid tightly closed
- Store at room temperature
- Avoid moisture and heat exposure
Proper storage extends the shelf life up to 2–3 years.
Precautions and Interactions
- Always dilute before applying on skin
- Perform a patch test
- Avoid contact with eyes and mouth
- Do not use before driving or operating machinery if it makes you sleepy
- Avoid combining with sedatives, antidepressants, or blood pressure medications
- Consult your doctor if you have chronic illness
Conclusion
Ylang Ylang oil is more than just a beautiful fragrance. It is a natural remedy for stress, sleeplessness, anxiety, skin imbalance, and mood-related problems. Whether you smell it, apply it on your skin, or use it in massage, the oil can bring calmness, clarity, and balance into your life. But as with any essential oil, moderation and proper usage are key. Use it wisely, follow safety guidelines, and enjoy the soothing magic of this ancient flower oil.
FAQ’s
What is Ylang Ylang Oil used for?
Ylang Ylang Oil is mainly used for relaxation, stress relief, improving mood, enhancing sleep, and supporting healthy skin and hair. It’s also commonly used in aromatherapy, massage oils, and perfumes.
What is Ylang Ylang Oil good for?
It is good for reducing anxiety and stress, balancing blood pressure, soothing the skin, promoting scalp health, and uplifting the mood. Some people also use it as a natural aphrodisiac.
Is Ylang Ylang Oil safe during pregnancy?
Pregnant women should use Ylang Ylang Oil cautiously and only under medical guidance. Strong essential oils may influence hormones and blood pressure, so dilution and limited use are important.
Can I use Ylang Ylang Oil every day?
Yes, but in small, diluted amounts. Daily use in aromatherapy or diluted topical application is generally safe, but excessive use may cause headaches, nausea, or skin irritation.
Is Ylang Ylang Oil safe for children?
Children can use it only in very low dilutions and under adult supervision. Avoid using it in children under six years old without professional guidance.
What does Ylang Ylang Oil smell like?
It has a sweet, floral, and slightly fruity scent that is both calming and uplifting, often described as exotic or tropical.
What does Ylang Ylang Oil taste like?
Ylang Ylang Oil is not meant to be ingested. Its taste is very strong, bitter, and floral, and consuming it can be unsafe without professional supervision.
What is the Indian name for Ylang Ylang?
In India, Ylang Ylang is commonly known as “Kewra” or “Kewda”, especially when referring to the fragrant flowers used in cooking and traditional rituals.
Can Ylang Ylang Oil help hair growth?
While it doesn’t directly stimulate hair growth, it improves scalp health and balances oil production, which can create optimal conditions for healthy hair.
Can Ylang Ylang Oil lower blood pressure?
Yes, it may have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect due to its relaxing properties, so people with low blood pressure should use it cautiously.
Is Ylang Ylang Oil suitable for oily skin?
Yes, it helps balance sebum production and may reduce acne breakouts when diluted and applied properly.
How long does Ylang Ylang Oil last?
When stored correctly, Ylang Ylang Oil can last 2–3 years without losing its therapeutic properties.
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