Originating from the lush tropical regions of Southeast Asia, Ylang Ylang essential oil has long been cherished for its ability to soothe the mind, body, and spirit.
Its sweet, Ylang Ylang smell, reminiscent of jasmine and neroli, has the power to transport the senses to a tranquil oasis, making it a sought-after ingredient in perfumes, skincare products, and aromatherapy blends.
This essential oil has earned a well-deserved place in the realm of aromatherapy, natural wellness, and more, providing many benefits beyond the norm — let’s discover some of the top uplifting uses of Ylang Ylang essential oil.
1. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil for Aromatherapy
Ylang Ylang oil is a true powerhouse in the world of aromatherapy, offering a multitude of benefits that extend beyond its floral yet fruity fragrance.
The plant essence is derived through a meticulous steam distillation process, revealing a rich concentration of sesquiterpenes — a class of compounds known for their ability to cross the blood-brain barrier
These unique molecules are believed to contribute to the oil's calming and uplifting effects on the mind and emotions.
- Stress Relief and Relaxation: Ylang Ylang's naturally-strong scent has a calming effect on the mind and body, making it an ideal companion for those seeking respite from the stresses of daily life. It helps alleviate anxiety, promote relaxation, and cultivate a sense of inner peace.
- Mood Enhancement: The uplifting properties of Ylang Ylang essential oil blends floral and fruity notes. It is believed to have a positive impact on emotional well-being, helping to lift the spirits and foster a sense of joy and contentment.
- Aphrodisiac Properties: Ylang Ylang candles have long been associated with romance and sensuality, earning it the reputation of being a natural aphrodisiac. Its alluring scent profile is thought to stimulate feelings of desire and passion, making it a preferred choice for creating a romantic ambiance or enhancing intimacy.
- Sleep Aid: The soothing properties of Ylang Ylang essential oil can be harnessed to promote restful sleep — most people find it easier to unwind, relax, and drift into a peaceful slumber if they use this oil, which allows the body and mind to rejuvenate.
- Meditation and Mindfulness: The calming and grounding effects of Ylang Ylang make it an excellent companion for meditation and mindfulness practices. Its aroma can help quieten the mind, promote focus, and enhance meditative experiences, allowing practitioners to fully immerse themselves in the present moment.
2. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil for Digestion
Beyond its aromatic benefits, Ylang Ylang essential oil also offers remarkable properties for supporting digestive health.
Its potent anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties can help alleviate various digestive issues, making it a valuable ally in promoting overall gut well-being.
- Reducing Bloating and Gas: Ylang Ylang essential oil can help relax the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, alleviating discomfort caused by bloating and excessive gas. This soothing effect promotes better digestion and relief from abdominal discomfort.
- Soothing Nausea and Vomiting: For those experiencing nausea or vomiting, just the smell of Ylang Ylang essential oil can provide relief. Its calming properties can help settle the stomach and alleviate feelings of queasiness.
- Supporting Healthy Bowel Movements: The essential oil can help regulate bowel movements by promoting the relaxation of the intestinal muscles. This aids in relieving constipation and promoting regular, comfortable elimination.
Using Ylang Ylang oil for abdominal massage or as a dietary supplement can help with digestion, especially when used in moderation.
Abdominal massages can help relax the digestive muscles and promote overall digestive comfort: For this, dilute a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil, and gently massage the abdomen in a clockwise direction.
If you’d rather choose the supplement route, simply ingest diluted or encapsulated amounts of Ylang Ylang essential oil — consult with a qualified healthcare professional before you do so.
3. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil for Skincare
Ylang Ylang essential oil is not only a sensory delight but also a valuable addition to your skincare regimen. It contains antioxidant and rejuvenating properties that make it a powerful ally in promoting a radiant, youthful complexion.
- Anti-aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, Ylang Ylang essential oil can help combat the damaging effects of free radicals, which contribute to premature aging and the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Its moisturizing properties can also help maintain the skin's elasticity and suppleness.
- Balancing Sebum Production: Sebum is nasty business for oily or acne-prone skin — Ylang Ylang can help regulate sebum production, reducing the risk of clogged pores and breakouts. Its astringent properties can help tighten pores and promote a more balanced complexion.
- Promoting Skin Healing: Ylang Ylang essential oil possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which are beneficial for soothing irritated skin and promoting the healing of minor cuts, scrapes, and blemishes.
You can elevate your beauty routine just by incorporating a facial serum or mist with diluted drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil — remember to perform a patch test to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions.
Adding a few drops of this oil to your bath or shower routine can also give you a luxurious and rejuvenating experience, as the steam disperses the aroma.
4. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil for Hair Care
Ylang Ylang essential oil promotes healthy, lustrous hair. Its nourishing and conditioning properties can help revitalize dull, lifeless locks and maintain overall hair health.
- Stimulating Hair Growth: Ylang Ylang essential oil is believed to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which can promote healthy hair growth and prevent premature hair loss or thinning.
- Nourishing and Conditioning: Rich in fatty acids and antioxidants, Ylang Ylang essential oil can help nourish and condition the hair strands, leaving them soft, shiny, and manageable.
- Treating Scalp Conditions: The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of Ylang Ylang essential oil not only benefits the skin on your face, but can help soothe scalp conditions such as dandruff, dryness, and itchiness, promoting a healthier scalp environment for hair growth.
There are several tried and tested methods to add this essential oil to your existing hair care routines — here’s three common ways you can do so.
- Hair Mask or Deep Conditioner: Add a few drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil to your favorite hair mask or deep conditioner. Apply the mixture to your hair, focusing on the ends, and leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing. This can help nourish and revitalize your tresses, leaving them soft, shiny, and manageable.
- Scalp Massage: You might already have coconut or almond oil, so dilute a few drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil with it, and gently massage the oil into your scalp. This helps to improve blood circulation and stimulate hair growth.
- Hair Serum: Create a nourishing hair serum by combining Ylang Ylang essential oil with a lightweight carrier oil, such as argan or jojoba oil. Apply a small amount to the ends of your hair to help tame frizz, add shine, and protect against environmental damage.
5. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil as a Natural Insect Repellent
Say goodbye to pesky bugs: Ylang Ylang essential oil serves as a natural and effective insect repellent. The strong, floral scent of Ylang Ylang oil is believed to be unappealing to many insects, including mosquitoes, flies, and other biting pests.
This natural repellent property can be attributed to the unique blend of compounds found in the oil, such as linalool, germacrene D, and caryophyllene.
But unlike many synthetic insect repellents, Ylang Ylang essential oil is a natural and non-toxic option, and a safer choice for both humans and the environment.
Diffuse or apply some drops of oil the next time you head out, to deter insects from coming close. Alternatively, you can add a few drops of the oil to the fuel of citronella candles or tiki torches — as the candles or torches burn, the aroma will disperse, creating a protective barrier against insects in outdoor spaces.
6. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil as Sleep Aids
Living through this fast-paced, monotonous life can affect your ability to achieve a restful night's sleep.
Fortunately, by harnessing the soothing properties of Ylang Ylang, you can easily create a peaceful environment conducive to deep, restorative sleep.
- Diffuser Blends: On restless nights, add a few drops of the oil into your bedroom diffuser and let its soothing aroma permeate the air. The gentle floral notes can help create a tranquil ambiance, promoting a sense of serenity and relaxation before bedtime.
- Pillow Mist: Before bedtime, prepare a calming pillow mist by combining Ylang Ylang essential oil with a base of distilled water and a small amount of witch hazel or vodka. Lightly mist your pillow before retiring for the night, allowing the enchanting scent to envelop your senses and lull you into a restful slumber.
7. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil as Household Cleaners
In addition to its aromatherapeutic benefits, Ylang Ylang essential oil can be an effective and eco-friendly solution for household cleaning.
Its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties make it a versatile component in maintaining a fresh and hygienic living space — plus, it’s considerably cheaper and less toxic than industrial-strength cleaners out there.
- All-Purpose Cleaner: Every home could use a good, multi-purpose cleaner, so make one yourself by combining drops of oil with white vinegar, water, and another few drops of liquid castile soap. This simple blend can tackle various cleaning tasks, from greasy countertops to grimy floors, leaving behind a pleasant floral fragrance.
- Bathroom Cleaner: Ylang Ylang's antibacterial properties are essential to keeping bathrooms fresh and clean. Mix it with baking soda, lemon juice, and water to create a scrub that can effectively remove soap scum and mildew while leaving a refreshing scent.
- Laundry Booster: Add a few drops of the oil to your laundry detergent or fabric softener for a natural boost of freshness. Its delightful aroma will linger on your clothes, providing a subtle and uplifting fragrance with each wear.
8. Ylang Ylang Essential Oil as Perfume and Potpourri
Ylang Ylang essential oil's refreshing and timeless aroma has long been prized in the world of perfumery and home fragrance. Its rich, intoxicating scent adds depth and complexity to any perfume blend, making it a sought-after ingredient for creating unique and alluring fragrances.
- Solid Perfume: Solid perfume is said to last longer than liquid fragrances. To make your own signature scent, combine the oil with a base of beeswax, shea butter, and a carrier oil to create a solid perfume. This portable and long-lasting fragrance can be easily applied to pulse points, leaving a subtle yet enchanting trail of floral notes.
- Potpourri and Sachets: Infuse your home with the uplifting aroma of Ylang Ylang by creating your own potpourri or sachets. Mix dried flowers, herbs, and spices with a few drops of the essential oil, and place them in decorative bowls or sachets to scent your living spaces.
Conclusion: Harnessing the Power of Ylang Ylang for Wellness
Ylang Ylang essential oil is a true treasure trove of natural goodness, offering a multitude of benefits for the mind, body, and spirit. This oil’s charming floral aroma belies its ability to cater to various natural solutions, thanks to its unique and versatile chemical composition.
You might need a touch of otherworldly goodness today, whether you seek relaxation, emotional balance, or a boost to your everyday beauty regimen — Ylang Ylang essential oil can be incorporated into various aspects of daily life, offering a natural and holistic approach to well-being.
Experience the transformative power of this remarkable essence and unlock a path to radiant health and inner harmony, today.
