Longing for Ylang Ylang

Ylang ylang . From the minute I first got interested in essential oils, I have always been particularly attracted to ylang ylang. I can’t really explain why, but something about the sweet warmth of the flower drew me in. Even now, ylang ylang is the oil that I diffuse in my room the most frequently, and it makes the room feel so peaceful.

When I went to Essentique’s Mix and Mingle event, I knew I wanted ylang ylang in my blend. I added cardamom, bay laurel, and bergamot, and fell even more in love with ylang ylang as I discovered how nicely it blended with other oils to create an exquisite fragrance. I decided I needed to learn more about this beautiful oil so that I could share with you all just how wonderful it is.

Ylang ylang essential oil comes from the flower of the Cananga odorata tree, which is commonly found in the rainforests of Asian and South Pacific islands. The oil that Essentique carries is from flowers from plants in Madagascar, and is extracted by distillation. Ylang ylang is called the “flower of flowers,” and its blooms have been used to cover the beds of newlyweds on their wedding night because of its sensual aroma. But what makes this oil so special as an essential oil?

On a chemical level, ylang ylang essential oil is rich in sesquiterpenes, which have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects, and supported by alcohols and esters, which have relaxing and antispasmodic properties. Ylang ylang has many important medical properties that can be used to treat cardiac arrhythmia (or other cardiac problems), hypertension (so be careful to use it sparingly if you already have low blood pressure), and intestinal problems.

But, perhaps, if you are like me, you are more interested in the influence of its fragrance. Ylang ylang’s fragrance is relaxing, calming, and balancing, and can be used to treat anxiety, depression, and related symptoms like insomnia. It also acts as an aphrodisiac, and can help with PMS or to combat a reduced sex drive. It increases focus, filters out negative energy, and combats low self-esteem, restoring confidence and peace.

And, as I discovered myself at the essential oil blending event, it makes an excellent base note for perfume, and blends beautifully with jasmine, neroli, sandalwood, bergamot, Roman chamomile, clary sage, fennel, frankincense, rose geranium, ginger, lavender, mandarin, patchouli, and vetiver. The possible combinations are endless!

To take advantage of this beautiful oil and all of it’s amazing properties, you can apply it topically or inhale it. If applying topically, dilute 1 part of essential oil with 1 part pure carrier oil, and then perform a small patch test to an insensitive part of the body (like the bottom of the feet). If, instead, you want the benefits of its aroma, you can diffuse this oil or inhale directly. And, you can always explore with making your own blends!

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