One of the most odorous flowers in the world is ylang-ylang. It has an amazing and unique smell that’s recognizable even if you’re just walked by it. Not only is it a fragrant flower, it also offers many health benefits, especially through its oil. The flower is considered an antiseborrheic, aphrodisiac, antiseptic, antidepressant, nervine, sedative and hypotensive substance.
Ylang-ylang essential oil wasn’t always very popular, but it is a new favourite aromatherapy tool promoted by thousands of cosmetic companies around the world.
What is Ylang-ylang?
Scientically known as cananga odorata, ylang-ylang has a soft, flowery and sweet fragrance, making it a favorite scent for romantic activities. In Indonesia, for example, its flowers are often scattered on the marriage bed. Moreover, ylang-ylang is surprisingly effective in calming and relaxing, and it helps release feelings of anger, nervous irritability and tension.
In Asia, it is used in many skin and hair products to promote healthy and luxurious hair.
What’s in Ylang-ylang Oil?
Ylang-ylang oil, primarily used through steam distilliation, has a lot of uses and is oozing with benefits. The main components of ylang-ylang oil are its benzyl acetate, geranyl acetate, benzyl benzoate linalool, sesquiterpenes and caryophyllene.
Not only can you use the oil in colognes and some aromatherapy treatments, it is also used for numerous medicinal purposes.
How Does Ylang-ylang Oil Work?
Ylang-ylang oil can be used in the following ways:
Topically. When combined with a milder carrier oil, you can use it as a
– Hair treatment – You just need to add three (3) drops of ylang-ylang oil into your shampoo, and massage it into your hair. Leave it for 20 minutes, and rinse. You’ll immediately see a change in your hair.
– Massage oil – Combine the ylang-ylang oil with a milder carrier oil and apply it to your body. This will help relax the body and muscles.
– Anti-ageing skin toner – add five drops of ylang-ylang oil to some chamomile tea and then apply it to your skin to reduce the signs of aging.
Aromatically. If you have an inhaler or a diffuser, ylang-ylang oil is a perfect addition. Just add 3-4 drops and inhale. This will relax you and remove any tension in your body.
Health Benefits of Ylang-ylang Oil
Here are some of the best health benefits of ylang-ylang oil:
Treats internal infections. Ylang-ylang oil is beneficial as a cure for some internal organ infections, such as those in the stomach, colon, urinary tract and intestines. Furthermore, it’s also good for treating people with insomnia, frigidity and fatigue.
Anti-depressant. The oil helps fight depression and relax the body, getting rid of any sadness, anxiety and chronic stress. It lifts up the mood and encourages a feeling of hope and joy.
Sedative. Ylang-ylang oil provides relief from anxiety and stress, calming and sedating nervous afflictions.
Hypotensive. Ylang-ylang oil is effective in lowering the blood pressure and has no side effects if you take it as a prescription medication.
Antiseptic. The ylang-ylang oil can prevent both tetanus and sepsis by inhibiting microbial growth and disinfecting wounds. It helps protect wounds from any fungal, bacterial and viral infections.
Antiseborrheic. Seborrheic eczema, or seborrhea is a chronic disease caused by malfunctioning sebaceous glands. Ylang-ylang oil helps treating the inflammation and reduce irritation in the skin.
Aphrodisiac. Ylang-ylang oil sparks romance in couples and may improve your sex life. Essential oils like this one can help rejuvinate interest in a dwindling sex life and boost your libido.
Nervine. Ylang-ylang oil helps boost nervous system health and protects you from nervous conditions.
