Few scents are as intoxicating as ylang ylang. This exotic, intensely floral essential oil has been cherished for centuries in Southeast Asia - not just for its captivating fragrance, but for its remarkable ability to promote relaxation and calm the mind.
Extracted from the star-shaped yellow flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, ylang ylang (pronounced "ee-lang ee-lang") is native to tropical regions including the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. In Indonesia, it has traditionally been used to decorate the beds of newlyweds, thanks to its reputation as a natural aphrodisiac and mood enhancer.
But ylang ylang offers far more than romance. Research suggests this beautiful oil can help reduce stress, support heart health, and nourish skin and hair. Here are 8 evidence-backed benefits of ylang ylang essential oil.
1. Promotes Deep Relaxation
Ylang ylang is one of the most effective essential oils for inducing a state of calm relaxation - and the science backs this up.
A study published in Phytotherapy Research examined the effects of ylang ylang oil on 40 healthy volunteers after transdermal (skin) absorption. The results showed that ylang ylang caused a significant decrease in blood pressure and increase in skin temperature. Participants also rated themselves as significantly more calm and relaxed compared to the control group.
The researchers concluded that these findings support the use of ylang ylang in aromatherapy for relieving depression and stress.
How to use: Add 3 - 5 drops of ylang ylang essential oil to your diffuser in the evening to create a peaceful atmosphere. The rich, sweet floral scent is deeply soothing - perfect for unwinding after a stressful day.
2. May Help Lower Blood Pressure
One of the most researched benefits of ylang ylang is its potential effect on cardiovascular health, particularly blood pressure.
A study on healthy men found that inhaling ylang ylang aroma significantly decreased both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The researchers noted that this pointed toward a decrease in autonomic arousal - essentially, the oil helped calm the body's stress response.
The same study that found transdermal absorption caused relaxation also demonstrated a measurable decrease in blood pressure. While ylang ylang should never replace medical treatment for hypertension, these findings suggest it may be a helpful complementary approach for supporting healthy blood pressure levels.
How to use: For a relaxing ritual, dilute 1 - 2 drops of ylang ylang in a carrier oil and massage gently over the heart area. Alternatively, simply inhale from the bottle or diffuse for 15 - 20 minutes.
3. Reduces Anxiety and Boosts Self-Esteem
Ylang ylang's calming properties extend to mental and emotional wellbeing. A 2014 pilot study found that using ylang ylang essential oil - whether applied to the skin or inhaled - improved self-esteem in participants over a 90-day period.
A 2022 animal study took this further, investigating ylang ylang's effects on neuropathic pain and associated anxiety. The researchers found that ylang ylang essential oil reduced both pain and anxiety-related symptoms in mice, suggesting potential applications for mood support.
The compound linalool, which is found in ylang ylang, is believed to play a key role in these calming effects. Linalool has been studied for its anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties and may help promote restful sleep while reducing tension.
How to use: Create a calming personal blend by adding 2 - 3 drops of ylang ylang to 10ml of fractionated coconut oil and applying to pulse points - wrists, temples, and behind the ears.
4. Uplifts Mood
The rich, exotic fragrance of ylang ylang has a naturally uplifting quality. Its sweet, floral aroma with subtle fruity notes can help shift your emotional state and create a sense of joy and wellbeing.
Traditional aromatherapy practitioners have long used ylang ylang to help release negative emotions and promote positive feelings. While more research is needed, the oil's documented effects on the nervous system - lowering blood pressure, inducing relaxation, and reducing stress hormones - all contribute to improved mood.
Ylang ylang works particularly well when you're feeling emotionally drained, stressed, or simply need a lift. The scent is powerful, so a little goes a long way.
How to use: Add 2 - 3 drops to your diffuser when you need an emotional boost. Ylang ylang also blends beautifully with citrus oils like orange or bergamot for a mood-enhancing combination that's both uplifting and calming.
5. Supports Skin and Hair Health
Ylang ylang has a long history of use in skincare and haircare products, and research is beginning to validate these traditional applications.
A 2024 study investigated a ylang ylang-containing formulation for scalp conditions. The results showed improvements in skin hydration and sebum regulation, along with excellent stability and no skin irritation. While this used a specialised formulation rather than pure essential oil, it supports ylang ylang's potential for skin applications.
A separate 2024 study analysing the chemical composition and properties of ylang ylang essential oil found significant antioxidant and antibacterial activity, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for dermatological conditions.
Ylang ylang is rich in linalool, a compound with antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it useful for:
- Balancing oily skin and scalp
- Adding shine and lustre to hair
- Soothing minor skin irritations
- Supporting a healthy scalp environment
How to use: Add 2 - 3 drops of ylang ylang to your regular shampoo or conditioner to help promote shiny, healthy-looking hair. For skin, blend 1 - 2 drops with jojoba oil and apply to cleansed skin. Always patch test first (see safety notes below).
6. Natural Antibacterial Properties
Research has demonstrated that ylang ylang possesses antimicrobial properties that may be useful for various applications.
A 2023 study tested ylang ylang essential oil against twelve multidrug-resistant pathogens and found it was effective up to certain concentrations, with notable activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
The 2024 study mentioned earlier also found ylang ylang demonstrated antibacterial activity, adding to the body of evidence supporting its antimicrobial properties.
These findings suggest ylang ylang may be useful in natural cleaning products or as part of skincare routines where antibacterial support is desired.
How to use: Add a few drops of ylang ylang to your DIY cleaning sprays or room sprays for added antimicrobial benefits and a gorgeous floral scent.
7. May Support Healthy Sleep
Given its profound relaxation effects, it's no surprise that ylang ylang is often recommended for sleep support. Its ability to lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and calm the nervous system creates ideal conditions for restful sleep.
The sedative-like properties of ylang ylang come from its complex blend of chemical compounds, including linalool and other terpenes. Unlike pharmaceutical sedatives, ylang ylang promotes relaxation without causing drowsiness during waking hours - it simply helps your body transition into a state more conducive to sleep.
How to use: Diffuse ylang ylang in your bedroom 30 minutes before sleep, or add 2 - 3 drops to a warm bath before bed. For an effective sleep blend, combine ylang ylang with lavender essential oil - the combination is deeply calming.
8. Creates a Romantic Atmosphere
Ylang ylang has been used as a natural aphrodisiac for centuries, particularly in Indonesian culture where it's traditionally associated with romance and intimacy.
While scientific research specifically on ylang ylang's aphrodisiac properties is limited, its documented effects on relaxation, mood enhancement, and stress reduction certainly create conditions conducive to intimacy. By helping reduce tension and promoting emotional openness, ylang ylang can help set a romantic atmosphere.
The scent itself is undeniably sensual - rich, heady, and exotic. It's a key ingredient in many classic perfumes, including Chanel No. 5.
How to use: Diffuse ylang ylang in the bedroom for a romantic atmosphere, or create a massage oil by blending 3 - 4 drops with 20ml of sweet almond oil.
What Does Ylang Ylang Blend Well With?
Ylang ylang has a powerful, sweet floral scent that pairs beautifully with many other essential oils:
- Citrus oils: Orange, bergamot, grapefruit, lemon - these brighten ylang ylang's heavy sweetness
- Floral oils: Lavender, geranium, jasmine - for layered floral complexity
- Woody oils: Cedarwood, sandalwood, frankincense - for grounding depth
- Spice oils: Clove, cinnamon - for warm, exotic blends
Because ylang ylang is so potent, use it sparingly in blends - typically 1 - 2 drops is enough. Too much can be overwhelming and may even cause headaches in sensitive individuals.
Ylang Ylang Grades Explained
You may see ylang ylang sold in different grades. Here's what they mean:
- Ylang Ylang Extra: The first distillation fraction, most prized for perfumery - richest, sweetest scent
- Ylang Ylang I, II, III: Subsequent distillation fractions, each slightly lighter in scent
- Ylang Ylang Complete: A single, unbroken distillation capturing all aromatic elements - ideal for aromatherapy as it contains the full range of therapeutic compounds
For aromatherapy purposes, Ylang Ylang Complete is often recommended as it provides the broadest spectrum of beneficial compounds.
How to Use Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Safely
While ylang ylang offers wonderful benefits, it's important to use it correctly and safely.
Important Safety Considerations
Skin Sensitisation Risk: Ylang ylang is classified as a potential skin sensitiser due to compounds like isoeugenol and dihydro-di-isoeugenol. This means some people may develop an allergic reaction (allergic contact dermatitis) with repeated use. To minimise risk:
- Always dilute: Use a maximum of 0.8% dilution for topical use (about 2 - 3 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil)
- Patch test: Apply a small amount of diluted oil to the inside of your elbow and wait 24 - 48 hours before widespread use
- Don't overuse: Take breaks from ylang ylang rather than using it daily for extended periods
- Fresh oil: Use within the recommended shelf life and store properly (cool, dark place) to prevent oxidation
Headaches: Ylang ylang's powerful scent can cause headaches or nausea in some people, particularly when used in excess. Start with small amounts and ensure good ventilation.
Pregnancy: While ylang ylang is generally considered one of the safer oils during pregnancy after the first trimester, always consult your healthcare provider first.
Pets: Keep essential oils away from cats and dogs. Diffuse in well-ventilated areas and ensure pets can leave the room if they wish.
Never ingest: Ylang ylang essential oil should not be taken internally.
Discover the Beauty of Ylang Ylang
Ylang ylang is truly one of aromatherapy's treasures - a deeply relaxing oil with a gorgeous fragrance that's been cherished for centuries. Whether you're using it to unwind after a stressful day, support your skin and hair, or create a romantic atmosphere, this exotic floral oil delivers.
Its ability to calm the nervous system, reduce blood pressure, and promote relaxation makes it particularly valuable in our often-stressful modern lives.
Ready to experience the benefits? Explore our ylang ylang essential oil or browse our complete range of essential oils to create your perfect blend.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. If you have high blood pressure or any health condition, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils. Essential oils should not replace medical treatment.