While Jasmine and Rose are often referred to as the King and Queen of flowers, Ylang ylang should be called the Princess and an exotic one at that! The blossoms yellow with long petals come from the cananga tree, native to the South Pacific, which can grow to over 60 feet.
The essential oil is obtained from steam distillation and comes in different grades, extra being the first distillation. The fragrance of Ylang ylang (pronounced e-lang e-lang) essential oil is very high and sweet. It sometimes reminds me a bit of licorice. The oil is used in perfumery and confectionery.
Ylang ylang blends well with fruit oils and other florals. Ylang ylang is used in Eugenia’s “Exotica” blend and I recently made a very refreshing bath salt blend combining it with orange. It is good for calming high anxiety and raising low self esteem. Ylang ylang has been known to lower high blood pressure and slow rapid heartbeat. People with low blood pressure should avoid it. Ylang ylang is also excellent for PMS, as a uterine tonic and it regulates circulation. It is used in hair and skin preparations.
Known as an aphrodisiac, the flowers are often strewn about in the bridal chambers in Indonesia.
Tue, Sep 22, 2009
Essential Oils