Ylang-ylang is a yellow, star-shaped flower that grows on the Cananga tree ( Cananga odorata ). This tropical species is native to countries around the Indian Ocean, such as India, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and parts of Australia. The intoxicating aroma of ylang-ylang is fruity, floral, and rich.
Ylang-ylang flower is used to obtain several types of essential oils through steam distillation. The oils differ in the intensity of their aroma, the difference being produced by the distillation process.

Harvest
from February to March. Harvest ends before 9 a.m.

Part of the plant
The flowers

Extraction method
Steam distillation
Oil with a sensual floral scent
Ylang-ylang Extra Superior is the strongest essential oil obtained from the ylang-ylang flower. You will be surprised how many famous fragrances from reputable manufacturers feature this oil, some of which are Tom Ford – Soleil Blanc, Gabrielle Chanel Essence, Paco Rabanne Pure XS For Her, L'Instant de Guerlain and of course perhaps the most famous Chanel N5 Elixir Sensuel.

Ylang-ylang essential oil, distilled from the fresh, fragrant flowers of the tropical plant Cananga odorata , is prized in perfumery and aromatherapy. It is believed to harmonize our internal systems, rejuvenate the skin, calm the mind, and enhance the sense of pleasure.
Ylang-ylang essential oil is available and sold in different varieties: Ylang-Ylang Extra Superior and Ylang-Ylang Complete.
The differences between the grades can be compared to making coffee. Imagine a short coffee, it has the most intense aroma and taste, while Ylang-ylang Extra Superior, respectively Ylang-ylang Complete, can be likened to a long coffee, where the aroma is milder.

An extremely versatile oil, the aromatherapy benefits of ylang-ylang essential oil can be used through a relaxing diffuser blend, in a soothing aphrodisiac massage, in an invigorating bath, in a nourishing scalp oil, and more.
A small study found that ylang-ylang reduced anxiety and increased self-esteem when applied to the skin or inhaled. Ylang-ylang's beneficial effects on mood have also been demonstrated in other studies.
Ylang-ylang contains linalool, a compound that has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to be effective in reducing Candida albicans, a fungal infection.
| Botanical name Smelly cananga | Aroma profile Floral, sweet |
| family annonaceae | fragrance Middle note |
| Origin Madagascar | application It reduces anxiety and increases self-esteem, has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties |

Application and effect
Used cosmetically or topically, ylang-ylang essential oil is known to balance and regulate oil production in the skin and hair, while soothing inflammation and irritation. It improves circulation, promotes new skin and hair growth, contributes to and maintains hydration, nourishes and prevents infections.
Used medicinally, ylang-ylang essential oil effectively facilitates wound healing, strengthens the health of the nervous system, reduces stress placed on nerves, balances blood pressure levels, and stabilizes heart rhythm.
| Mental Application: Depression, anxiety, stress, aphrodisiac | Psychological action: Relaxing, balancing, highly stress-reducing |
| Physical Application: Stomach disturbances, rheumatism, gout, malaria, headache, pneumonia | Physical action: Regenerating, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory |
Recipes with ylang-ylang essential oil

Painless Body Oil
- 3 drops ylang-ylang essential oil Extra Superior
- 9 drops peppermint essential oil
- 60 ml preferred base oil

Use this anti-inflammatory massage blend to relieve aches, tension, and inflammation. Pour the carrier oil into a glass container before adding the essential oils. Add the essential oils and mix. Warm some of this mixture between the palms of your hand before applying and massaging the desired areas.
Massage oil "Romance"
- 4 drops ylang-ylang essential oil Extra Superior
- 4 drops sandalwood essential oil
- 3 drops jasmine absolute
- 60 ml preferred base oil

Pour the carrier oil into a glass bottle before adding the essential oils. Drop in the essential oils, close the cap and shake well. Warm some of this mixture between the palms of your hand before applying and massaging the desired areas.
Mask for shiny hair
- 2 tablespoons argan oil
- 2 drops ylang-ylang essential oil Extra Superior
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil
- 2 drops rosemary essential oil

In a small bowl or container, combine the oils and mix well. Part your hair with a fine-toothed comb and massage a small amount of this mixture into your scalp. Rub in using pressure from your fingers to stimulate circulation to the skin. Use the remaining oil to distribute through your hair strands and ends. Leave on for 20 minutes before washing and conditioning your hair as usual.
Aroma Blend "Relieve Tension"
- 10 drops ylang-ylang essential oil Complete
- 7 drops geranium essential oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil

Add the indicated essential oils to a 2ml glass vial, then swirl the vial between your palms to mix all the oils. Depending on the manufacturer's instructions, add the appropriate number of drops to the diffuser.
Aroma blend "Peaceful Rest"
- 10 drops ylang-ylang essential oil Complete
- 10 drops bergamot essential oil
- 3 drops marjoram essential oil

Use this synergistic blend to create positive sleep habits and overcome insomnia. Suitable for anyone who dislikes or is allergic to lavender.
More interesting articles from the blog
- Sandalwood essential oil – benefits and uses
- Geranium oil – the sweet, fragrant geranium
- Frankincense Essential Oil – Benefits and Uses
- Argan oil – the beauty elixir
- Essential oils – uses and benefits in aromatherapy








