Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

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A lush, intensely sweet floral oil from the flowers of the Cananga tree — one of the great sensual and aphrodisiac aromatics. Heady, exotic, and deeply tropical.

Botanical profile

• Latin name: Cananga odorata
• Origin: Madagascar / Comoros — the heart of ylang ylang production
• Extraction: Steam distilled from the flowers
• Aroma: Intensely sweet, floral, heady — exotic with banana-like and jasmine-like notes
• Perfumery note: Base to middle
• Blends well with: Sandalwood, jasmine, rose, vetiver, bergamot, citrus oils, neroli

Traditional uses & properties

• A classic aphrodisiac and sensual aromatic
• Long-used in traditional Indonesian wedding rituals — strewn on the bed of newlyweds
• Calming and uplifting in aromatherapy
• A staple in fine perfumery — used in Chanel No. 5 among many other classics

History

Ylang ylang means 'flower of flowers' in Tagalog. The tree is native to the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia. In Indonesia, the flowers are traditionally strewn on the bed of newly married couples. The oil's first major use in Western perfumery began in the late 19th century.

How to use

Add a few drops to an aromatherapy diffuser, or 1-2 drops on a tissue or cotton ball for personal inhalation. For topical use, dilute to 1-3% in a carrier oil (jojoba, fractionated coconut, or sweet almond) — about 2-9 drops per 30ml. Patch test inside the elbow before broader application. Highly aromatic — a small amount goes a long way.

Safety

External use only. Always dilute. Some people find the heady aroma overwhelming — use sparingly. Patch test before broader use.

Storage

Store sealed in a cool, dark place. Most essential oils keep 1-3 years; citrus oils oxidize faster — best within 12 months.

This information is for educational purposes only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. Always dilute essential oils for skin application; patch test before first use; keep away from children and pets.