The Ylang Ylang plant, Cananga odorata, is a tropical tree known for its highly aromatic flowers. Native to Southeast Asia, its blossoms are used to extract a valuable essential oil with diverse applications.
The Ylang Ylang Plant and Its Origins
The Ylang Ylang tree (Cananga odorata), a member of the custard apple family (Annonaceae), can reach heights of 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet). When cultivated for essential oil production, the tree is often pruned to a more manageable height, typically not exceeding 3 meters (10 feet), to facilitate flower harvesting.
This tropical tree is indigenous to Southeast Asia and Oceania. It thrives in humid lowland tropics, preferring full or partial sun and well-draining, slightly acidic soils. The tree flowers year-round, and its greenish-yellow flowers gradually turn golden-yellow with age.
Understanding Its Unique Aroma
The Ylang Ylang flower has a complex and intense fragrance, which differs from the fresh flower once distilled into essential oil. Its aroma is often described as sweet, floral, and exotic, with nuanced undertones. These can include creamy, fruity, and slightly spicy notes, sometimes reminiscent of jasmine, neroli, or banana.
The scent profile of Ylang Ylang essential oil varies significantly based on its distillation grade. The steam distillation process is typically fractionated, collecting the oil at different stages. “Ylang Ylang Extra” is the first fraction, offering the sweetest, most volatile, and highly floral top notes. Subsequent distillations yield grades I, II, and III, which become progressively heavier, less floral, and more earthy in scent. A “Complete” grade aims to capture a full-bodied profile blending all aromatic compounds.
Key Applications of Ylang Ylang
Ylang Ylang essential oil is widely used across several industries for its aromatic qualities and therapeutic benefits. In perfumery, its floral scent makes it a popular middle to base note. It contributes an exotic character to floral compositions and can add warmth and depth to oriental and woody fragrances. Ylang Ylang is a component in well-known perfumes, including Chanel No. 5.
In aromatherapy, Ylang Ylang essential oil is used for its calming and mood-enhancing properties. It is often diffused or applied topically to help alleviate:
Stress
Anxiety
Tension
Sleeplessness
Its aroma is believed to promote relaxation, emotional balance, and cheerfulness. Some also associate its scent with aphrodisiac qualities, enhancing sensuality and intimacy.
Beyond its aromatic uses, Ylang Ylang also finds application in traditional skin and hair care practices. When incorporated into topical products, it can help balance oil production in both skin and scalp, addressing concerns like excessive dryness or oiliness. It is also believed to:
Soothe irritation and inflammation
Encourage healthy skin and hair growth
Contribute to overall scalp health
Potentially reduce issues like dandruff
Guidelines for Safe Use
While Ylang Ylang essential oil offers benefits, it is important to use it with caution to prevent adverse reactions. The oil should always be diluted with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, before topical application. Applying undiluted essential oil can cause skin irritation, redness, or allergic reactions. A patch test is recommended before broader application to check for sensitivity.
Internal consumption of Ylang Ylang essential oil is generally not recommended unless under professional guidance. Certain groups should exercise particular care or avoid its use. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are often advised against using Ylang Ylang essential oil due to limited safety data. Ylang Ylang can be toxic to pets, including cats and dogs, so direct contact or diffusion in areas accessible to them should be avoided. Using excessive amounts or high concentrations may lead to side effects like headaches or nausea.