One drop is all it takes for its fragrance to sweep you away. L’essential oil ylang ylangylang ylang essential oil, derived from the bewitching Cananga odorata flower, is as seductive as it is soothing. Known in aromatherapy for its relaxing, hypotensive and aphrodisiac properties, it is used to calm anxiety, regulate the nervous system and improve the appearance of skin and hair.
Applied diluted to the skin, diffused at home or incorporated into a massage, it helps reduce stress, stimulate libido and relieve certain circulatory disorders. Its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and sedative action makes it a valuable daily ally.
But beware: any medical use must be supervised. This informative article is not intended to replace professional advice. In case of doubt, pregnancy or use on children, it is essential to consult a doctor.
👉 Discover in this complete guide how to use ylang-ylang safely, to get the best out of it… in the right dosage, in the right context, and with the right natural care.
Origin, extraction and olfactory identity of ylang-ylang
Ylang-ylangessential oil is extracted from the fresh flowers of Cananga odorata, an extotic tree native to the humid tropics ofSouth Asia and theIndian Ocean. But beyond its botanical provenance, what makes this bewitchingly fragrant oil so precious are the conditions under which the flowers are distilled and when they are collected.
Fractional distillation, at the heart of its quality
Ylang-ylang is one of the few essential oils obtained by continuous fractional distillation. This means that, throughout the process (12 to 20 hours depending on practice), the most volatile molecules are collected first, followed by the heaviest. This breakdown gives rise to several distinct qualities:
Extra: first fraction, very fine, rich in esters and monoterpenols → ideal for perfumery.
I, II, III: successive, heavier fractions, often used in the cosmetics and soap industries
Complete: blending of all fractions, or complete distillation, this totum is important for therapeutic efficacy. It contains all the plant’s molecular information.
Each grade of ylang-ylang has its own molecular profile, fragrance and uses. But not all have the same therapeutic benefits, nor the same olfactory finesse.
🌿 The Boèmia choice: pure, powerful ylang ylang essential oil
At Boèmia, we have chosen to work exclusively with an essential essential oil ylang ylang from Madagascar, distilled with respect for the rhythms of the flower and traditional know-how. This “complete” quality concentrates the most active compounds on the nervous level, and the most pleasant on the olfactory level.
The result? A fresh, powerful, floral, sensual oil with a bewitching fragrance that soothes from the very first breath. And above all, a living, full-bodied, unadulterated raw material that unfolds all its richness in just one well-used drop.
📌 Remember: all the benefits of ylang-ylang – relaxation, nervous balance, circulatory support, action on skin or hair – are influenced by the quality chosen. That’s why we defenda 100% pure, chemotyped, unrectified product, handcrafted in Madagascar, and distilled to preserve what’s essential: the plant, the care, and the bond.
The benefits of ylang-ylang for body and mind
Ylang ylang totumessential oil is often associated with relaxation, letting go and emotional well-being. But its benefits go far beyond fragrance. Thanks to its wealth of esters, sesquiterpenes and monoterpenols, it acts on various body systems, and always with that gentle intensity that makes it both effective and sensorial. Thus,ylang ylang can be used to reducesymptoms on the body as well as for emotional purposes.
A natural ally for the nervous and emotional systems
It is perhaps in this field that it is best known and loved. When diffused or applied to the skin,ylang ylang has a calming effect on the nervous system, reducinganxiety and anguish, promoting sleep and reducing insomnia, and acting as a genuine mood regulator. It combats mental and physical tension, without ever numbing.
It is also recognized for its action on blood pressure, particularly in cases of nervousness or stress-related palpitations. Used in olfaction, it helps reduce heart rate. Benzyl acetate and geranyl acetate, two of its major components, contribute to this mild hypotensive effect. This calming and sedative action has been validated byscientific aromatherapy.
💡 Please note: a few drops on the inner wrists or solar plexus, dilutedina vegetable oil, are often enough to trigger an immediate feeling of relaxation, especially at the end of the day.
Muscles and pain
Ylang-ylang is reputed to soothe inflammation. Applied to the skin, it is a muscle analgesic.
A toning and regulating action on skin and hair
Less well-known but just as precious:ylang ylang is renowned for its sebum-regulating properties. It helps the skin and scalp to regulate their sebum productionwhether in excess or in shortage. It can therefore help :
for oily, combination or shiny skin,
for oily or dry scalps,
hair loss linked to stress or hormonal imbalance.
Used in a mild shampoo or diluted in a vegetable oil (sesame, almond), it stimulates scalp microcirculation while providing a fresh, flowery sensation.
📌 Express formula: 1 drop ylang-ylang + 1 tablespoon sesa→ vegetable oil scalp massage 10 min before shampooing.
If you find this formula too minimalist, add 1 drop ofrosemary cineoleessential oil and 1 drop oforangeessential oil to transform it into the ultimate synergy for your scalp.
A sexual and emotional tonic
Traditionally used as a natural aphrodisiac, particularly in Indonesia where its flowers are used to perfume the bed of newlyweds,ylang-ylang is also reputed to rekindle desire, especially when the libido is dulled by stress, fatigue or hormonal variations.
It’s not a placebo effect: its action is explained by its direct influence on the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes deep relaxation, sensory connection and mental lowering. An ideal environment for boosting sexual desire in both men and women.
More than a libido booster, it’s a rebalancer that creates the right conditions for sexual fulfillment. The effect is more harmonizing than stimulating.
Benefits by route of administration: Summary✨ As a massage for two, a few drops in sweet almond vegetable oil can transform a treatment into a deep sensory ritual and contribute to sexual harmony and sensations of pleasure.
| Track | Targeted benefits | Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| Diffusion | Relaxation, blood pressure… | Not continuous |
| Massage | Libido, stress, spasms… | Dilute strongly |
| Dry inhalation | Anxiety, drop in blood pressure | Short duration |
| Cosmetics | Moisturizing, repairing and nourishing properties | Less than 1% concentration |
| Bath | Relaxation, circulation | Disperse correctly |
How do I use ylang-ylang essential oil?
Ylang-ylangessential oil is a versatile oil, but to take full advantage of its benefits, you need to use it in the right place, at the right time and in the right dosage. Applied undiluted, it can become heady and even irritating. Used correctly, it becomes a precious daily ally.
Cutaneous application: always dilute
For massage, skin care or home cosmetics, ylang-ylang is always applied diluted in a vegetable oil (hemp, sweet almond, sesame…). Its richness in powerful aromatic molecules calls for caution.
👉 Recommended dosage :
1% for a facial oil or regular application,
3 to 5% for a spot massage on the body (e.g., plexus, neck, lower back).
📌 Boèmia tip: For an express anti-stress massage, dilute 2 drops of Boèmia ylang-ylang in a tablespoon ofsesame vegetable oil, apply to the plexus and breathe deeply.
Atmospheric diffusion: the art of setting the mood
Just a few drops in an ultrasonic diffuser create a warm, soothing, slightly sensual atmosphere. Ylang-ylang diffuses well on its own, but also goes well with :
True lavender (enhanced calming effect),
sweet orange (joy, relaxation),
cedar (anchoring, olfactory depth).
chamomileessential oil
petit grain bigarade
See our guide to essential oil diffusion
👉 Ideal diffusion time: 10 to 15 minutes, in a well-ventilated room, 2 to 3 times a day.
📌 Contra-indication: Avoid continuous diffusion or in the presence of young children. Prefer short times.
Aromatic bath: to relax and rebalance
Do not pouressential oil directly into water: it does not mix with water. It should always be diluted in a dispersant (bath base, whole milk, spoonful of honey or Epsom salt).
👉 For a relaxing bath:
4 drops of ylang-ylang extra,
1 spoonful of whole milk or 1 spoonful of neutral bath base,
to be poured into hot water, just before getting into the bath.
📌 Bath not recommended for children and pregnant women without medical advice.
👉 Ideal diffusion time: 10 to 15 minutes, in a well-ventilated room, 2 to 3 times a day.
📌 Contra-indication: Avoid continuous diffusion or in the presence of young children. Prefer short times.
Hair care and cosmetics
Ylang-ylang is very popular in hair care and home cosmetics:
In aneutral shampoo, it stimulates shine and regulates sebum,
In a treatment oil, it softens the lengths and provides a natural fragrance,
On the scalp, it promotes microcirculation(hair tonic).
👉 1 to 2 drops are enough in a dose of shampoo or mask.
📌 Boèmia express recipe: 1 drop ylang-ylang + 1 spoon sesame vegetable oil → massage onto dry ends or scalp before washing.
⚠️ Precautions for use and contraindications
Ylang-ylangessential oil is as powerful as it is seductive. And like all quality essential its benefits require informed use. Although reputedly gentle, it contains active molecules that can become irritating or uncomfortable if overdosed or used inappropriately.
🚫 Risk profiles
Ylang-ylang is generally well tolerated, but some people should use it with caution or avoid it altogether:
Children under 3:useprohibited, even as a broadcast product.
Pregnant or breast-feeding women: seek the advice of a healthcare professional before use, even in dilution.
Hypotensive people: due to its hypotensive effect, internal use or extensive massage should be avoided without supervision.
Sensitive or allergic persons: like all essential oils, ylang-ylang can cause a skin reaction if diluted incorrectly or if the skin is highly reactive.
📌 Allergic skin test recommended: apply a diluted drop to the crease of the elbow and wait 24 hours to observe any reaction.
The golden rules of responsible use
Never apply undiluted to the skin: always dilute in a vegetable oil of your choice (1 to 5% max, depending on use).
Never in eyes or mucous membranes
No prolonged use without supervision: daily applications over several weeks must be validated by a health professional.
Diffusion: short, punctual, always in an airy room.
No oral use without a prescription: despite its medicinal virtues, ylang-ylang is not an oil to be swallowed as self-medication.
Performing the elbow hollow test
📩 If in doubt, contact a healthcare professional: it’s better to ask a question and seek medical advice before use than to take an unnecessary risk.
Choosing a quality ylang-ylang essential oil
Not all ylang-ylang essential oils are created equal. Between industrial fraction III and full artisanal distillation, there’s a wide gulf in terms of quality, properties, olfactory power, but also… price. If you’re looking for an effective, sensorial and safe oil, here are the essential criteria to keep in mind.
🔍 Essential selection criteria
Chemotype: all qualityessential oils must indicate their chemotype (dominant biochemical molecules).
Geographical origin: choose origins known for their expertise, such as the islands of Madagascar or the Comoros, which benefit from a favorable climate and terroir.
Extraction method: solvent-free steam distillation is an imperative standard.
Organic certification: a serious label guaranteeing the absence of chemical residues or post-harvest treatments.
Fraction: Extra, I, II, III, Complete… a complete essential oil is the most concentrated in neuro-relaxing active ingredients, and the most precious. This is the fraction we have chosen at Boèmia.
🧾 Reading a label, comparing prices
A good product sheet or label should clearly state :
The full Latin name(Cananga odorata),
The distilled part (flower),
Lot, expiry date and fraction (e.g. “complete ylang-ylang”),
Geographical origin and extraction method,
The main biochemical constituents.
💸 Anorganic, artisanal ylang-ylang essential oil is bound to be more expensive than a cosmetic-grade ylang fraction III. And with good reason: it’s distilled slowly, from hand-harvested flowers, often in small batches. You’re not just paying for a bottle: you’re investing in efficiency, traceability and olfactory emotion.
Conclusion: a drop of ylang-ylang can change everything
Ylang-ylangessential oil is pleasant to breathe. It also has that rare ability to bring calm to chaos, to stimulate without rushing, to balance without masking. Properly chosen and used, it accompanies sleep, skin, emotions, hair, and sometimes even… the heart.
At Boèmia, we’ve chosen an organic ylang-ylang essential oil from Madagascar, slowly distilled without compromise. Because the intensity of a treatment always begins with the right material.
👉 Want to know more about our ylang-ylang oil?
📍 Discover its complete file, its properties, its uses and our personalized advice on our store :
👉 S ee the Boèmia ylang-ylang product sheet on our website.
