The essential oil of the Ylang Ylang plant certainly has a broad variety of benefits and uses, from medicinal to romantic. The blooms of the Ylang Ylang tree  were scattered over the beds of newly wed couples in Indonesia as the plant’s odor is said to have a calming and euphoric effect. In the Philippines, the plant is often used in various salves and balms to treat wounds, burns, insect and snake bites. As a hair treatment, the oil has a history of use during Victorian times in England.

The oil is steam distilled from the flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, and similar to olive oil, the earlier the pressing the more beneficial and expensive the oil. The first pressing results in a very fragrant oil that’s used in many natural perfumes.

As the pressings continue, the resulting oil becomes less and less sweet, thanks to a reduction in fragrant esters  remaining in the oil. It is usually rare to see a virgin pressing of Ylang Ylang oil available, and many essential oils are actually a combination of first to third pressings.

Ylang Ylang Essentail Oil Benefits

Ylang Ylang oil has a vast number of benefits, including:

• Sedative – The oil has a distinctly relaxing effect on the body and is often used for the alleviation of panic, tension or anxiety attacks. The oil calms the nervous system and can slow the heartbeat and respiration rate. This makes it perfect for those who suffer from high blood pressure.
• Aphrodisiac – The oil is a natural remedy for impotence, and has a history of being used to restore healthy sexual desire in both men and women.
• Medicinal – Ylang ylang essential oil is commonly used in alternative medicine to treat many medical problems ranging from high hypertension to depression. The calming effect of the oil makes it a prefect remedy for insomnia, and is often used to help people drift off into a deep and restorative sleep.
• Perfume – The initial pressing of Ylang Ylang is so sweet and fragrant, it’s oten used in high-end perfumes, including Chanel No 5. 
• Hair Care – Ylang Ylang oil was regularly used as a natural hair growth remedy in Victorian England and has continued to be used to treat fine and limp hair. It boosts hair development when massaged into hair follicles and is used as natural treatment for alopecia and thinning hair. 

Ylang Ylang Essentail Oil Uses

• Massage Oil – Ylang ylang oil can be an effective massage oil, when used in combination with a base oil, such as jojoba or wheat germ. Because the oil s so strong, it’s important to dilute it to avoid the risk of irritation. Thanks to its aphrodisiac properties and pleasant aroma, Ylang Ylang oil is pefect for sensual couples massages.
• As a Cream – When blended with an emulsion or moisturizing creme, Ylang Ylang is a great essential oil for the skin, nourishing and moisturizing flaky and dry skin. Try rubbing a little on your hands before bed to unlock its natural sleep-inducing properties.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Side Effects

Ylang Ylang 18essential oil does not seem to produce any side effects, but like many essential oils, it is not recommended for use with pregnant women or children. Some essential oils may cause irritation or allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin so it is wise to do a patch test before using regularly.