16 Medicinal Health Benefits of Ylang-ylang (Cananga Odorata)

August 23, 2023September 1, 2023 Agric4Profits

Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata) is a medicinal plant that is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The plant is renowned for its highly fragrant flowers, from which an essential oil is extracted. This essential oil is widely used in traditional medicine for its potential therapeutic properties.

Ylang-ylang is a tropical evergreen tree that is native to regions in Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines. It thrives in humid, tropical climates and is often found in rainforests and coastal areas.

Ylang-ylang trees can grow to impressive heights of up to 20 meters (65 feet) or more. The trees have a sturdy trunk with a branching canopy of glossy leaves.

Ylang-ylang leaves are large, smooth and glossy. The leaves are typically elliptical in shape, with pointed tips and slightly wavy edges. They have a deep green color and a leathery texture. The leaves are arranged alternately along the branches of the tree.

The most distinctive feature of the ylang-ylang tree is its fragrant flowers, which are renowned for their exquisite scent. The flowers are small and star-shaped with six narrow petals that radiate from a central tubular structure.

Ylang-ylang flowers form in pendulous clusters known as inflorescences. The color of the flowers can range from pale yellow to deep yellow or even shades of pink. The flowers’ fragrance is sweet, floral and often described as exotic and sensual.

Ylang-ylang produces small, oval-shaped fruits that are about the size of olives.The fruits turn from green to black as they mature and contain seeds.

The bark of the ylang-ylang tree is grayish-brown and typically smooth. As the tree ages, the bark can become more textured with shallow furrows and fissures.

Ylang-ylang trees have a well-developed root system that helps anchor them in the tropical soil.

Ylang-ylang flowers hold cultural and traditional significance in the regions where they are grown. They are often used in ceremonies, weddings and rituals. The flowers of ylang-ylang are harvested for their essential oil content. The flowers are usually hand-picked in the early morning when their fragrance is most potent.

The Medicinal Health Benefits of Ylang-ylang (Cananga Odorata)

16 Medicinal Health Benefits of Ylang-ylang (Cananga Odorata)

Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata) essential oil is believed to offer various potential health benefits. Here are 16 medicinal health benefits attributed to ylang-ylang oil:

1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Ylang-ylang oil is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. Adding a few drops of ylang-ylang oil to a diffuser and inhaling the aroma to create a calming atmosphere.

2. Improved Mood: The aromatic compounds in ylang-ylang are thought to have mood-enhancing properties, potentially helping to alleviate symptoms of depression and boost overall mood. Diluting ylang-ylang oil in a carrier oil and using it in a massage to enhance relaxation and uplift the spirits.

3. Aphrodisiac Effects: Ylang-ylang’s exotic and sensual aroma is believed to have aphrodisiac qualities, promoting feelings of intimacy and desire. Diffusing ylang-ylang oil in the bedroom to create a romantic atmosphere.

4. Blood Pressure Regulation: Ylang-ylang oil might have a calming effect on the nervous system, potentially helping to regulate blood pressure. Adding a few drops of ylang-ylang oil to a warm bath to promote relaxation and support blood pressure balance.

5. Skin Health: Ylang-ylang oil is used in skincare for its potential to balance oil production, soothe irritated skin and improve the appearance of scars and blemishes. Mixing a few drops of ylang-ylang oil with a carrier oil and applying it to the face to maintain healthy skin.

6. Hair Care: Ylang-ylang oil is believed to stimulate hair growth and promote a healthy scalp. Adding a few drops of ylang-ylang oil to your regular shampoo or conditioner to support hair health.

7. Antiseptic Properties: Ylang-ylang oil’s potential antiseptic properties might make it useful for minor wound care and skin infections. Diluting ylang-ylang oil and applying it to a clean cotton ball for gentle wound cleansing.

8. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Ylang-ylang oil could have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially helping to soothe skin inflammation. Mixing ylang-ylang oil with aloe vera gel and applying it to sunburned skin for relief.

9. Nervous System Support: Ylang-ylang’s calming scent may have a positive impact on the nervous system, helping to reduce nervous tension and restlessness. Adding a drop of ylang-ylang oil to a handkerchief and inhaling deeply during stressful situations.

10. Headache Relief: Ylang-ylang’s soothing properties might help alleviate headaches and migraines. Blending ylang-ylang oil with a carrier oil and massaging it onto temples and neck.

11. Digestive Comfort: Ylang-ylang oil’s relaxation effects might extend to the digestive system, potentially helping to reduce digestive discomfort. Diluting ylang-ylang oil and gently massaging the abdomen in a clockwise motion.

12. Pain Management: Ylang-ylang oil could be used for topical pain relief due to its potential analgesic properties. Adding a few drops of ylang-ylang oil to a warm compress and applying it to sore muscles.

13. Respiratory Health: Inhaling ylang-ylang oil’s aroma might support respiratory health by promoting relaxation and reducing tension. Using ylang-ylang oil in steam inhalation for respiratory comfort during colds.

14. Improved Sleep: Ylang-ylang’s calming effects could aid in improving sleep quality and promoting restfulness. Diffusing ylang-ylang oil in the bedroom before bedtime to create a soothing sleep environment.

15. Circulation Enhancement: Ylang-ylang oil’s potential to relax blood vessels could support healthy circulation. Adding a few drops of ylang-ylang oil to a carrier oil and using it for a relaxing massage.

16. Emotional Balance: Ylang-ylang oil’s aroma might help balance emotions, potentially aiding in managing mood swings and emotional fluctuations. Inhaling ylang-ylang oil directly from the bottle when feeling emotionally overwhelmed.

The Methods of Usage to Achieve the Provided Health Benefits of Ylang-ylang (Cananga Odorata)

Here’s a detailed explanation of the methods of usage to achieve the provided medicinal health benefits of ylang-ylang essential oil:

1. Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Use an essential oil diffuser. Add 5-7 drops of ylang-ylang oil to an ultrasonic diffuser filled with water. Turn on the diffuser to disperse the aromatic mist into the air. Inhale deeply to experience relaxation.

2. Improved Mood: Aromatherapy massage. Dilute 2-3 drops of ylang-ylang oil in 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil (such as jojoba or coconut oil). Gently massage the oil onto your skin, paying attention to pulse points like wrists and neck.

3. Aphrodisiac Effects: Room spray or diffuser blend. Create a romantic atmosphere by mixing 5 drops of ylang-ylang oil with 3 drops of sandalwood oil and 2 drops of jasmine oil. Add the blend to a spray bottle filled with water and spritz around the room.

4. Blood Pressure Regulation: Aromatic bath. Add 8-10 drops of ylang-ylang oil to a warm bath. Soak for about 20 minutes, inhaling deeply to enjoy the calming effects.

5. Skin Health: Facial oil. Mix 1-2 drops of ylang-ylang oil with 1 tablespoon of a gentle carrier oil (such as rosehip or grapeseed oil). Apply a small amount to your face after cleansing.

6. Hair Care: Scalp massage. Blend 4-5 drops of ylang-ylang oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Massage the mixture into your scalp, allowing it to sit for about 30 minutes before shampooing.

7. Antiseptic Properties: Topical application. Dilute 1-2 drops of ylang-ylang oil in 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil. Apply the mixture to a clean cotton ball and dab gently on minor wounds or skin irritations.

8. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Cooling compress. Add 3-4 drops of ylang-ylang oil to a bowl of cold water. Soak a clean cloth in the water, wring it out and apply the cloth to inflamed skin.

9. Nervous System Support: Inhalation. Place a drop of ylang-ylang oil on a tissue or cotton ball. Inhale deeply when needed to calm nerves.

10. Headache Relief: Aromatherapy blend. Mix 3 drops of ylang-ylang oil with 3 drops of lavender oil. Add the blend to a bowl of steaming hot water and lean over it, inhaling deeply.

11. Digestive Comfort: Abdominal massage. Dilute 2-3 drops of ylang-ylang oil in 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil. Gently massage the oil onto your abdomen in a clockwise motion.

12. Pain Management: Topical application. Dilute 3-4 drops of ylang-ylang oil in 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil. Massage the oil onto areas of discomfort.

13. Respiratory Health: Steam inhalation. Add 3-4 drops of ylang-ylang oil to a bowl of hot water. Place your head over the bowl, cover it with a towel and inhale the steam.

14. Improved Sleep: Bedtime diffuser blend. Blend 4 drops of ylang-ylang oil with 2 drops of bergamot oil. Diffuse the blend in your bedroom before going to sleep.

15. Circulation Enhancement: Massage oil. Mix 5-6 drops of ylang-ylang oil with 1 tablespoon of a carrier oil. Use the blend to give yourself a relaxing massage.

16. Emotional Balance: Direct inhalation. Place 1-2 drops of ylang-ylang oil on a tissue and hold it close to your nose, inhaling deeply when you need emotional balance.

Remember that ylang-ylang essential oil is potent, so always start with a small amount and perform a patch test before applying to larger areas of skin.

The Side Effects of Using Ylang-ylang Medicinal Plant

While ylang-ylang essential oil is generally considered safe for many people, it can cause side effects in some individuals, especially when used excessively or without proper dilution. Here are five potential side effects of using ylang-ylang essential oil:

1. Skin Irritation and Allergic Reactions: Ylang-ylang oil, when applied directly to the skin without proper dilution, can cause skin irritation, redness, itching and allergic reactions. Some individuals may be more sensitive to essential oils, leading to adverse skin reactions.

2. Nausea and Headaches: The strong and intense aroma of ylang-ylang oil can be overwhelming for some people, potentially leading to symptoms like headaches and nausea, especially in those who are sensitive to strong fragrances.

3. Hormonal Effects: Ylang-ylang oil is believed to have a potential effect on hormonal balance. In some cases, excessive or prolonged use of ylang-ylang oil may disrupt hormonal equilibrium, especially for individuals with existing hormonal conditions.

4. Low Blood Pressure: Ylang-ylang oil’s calming properties can potentially lower blood pressure. While this effect can be beneficial for some individuals, those with already low blood pressure should use ylang-ylang with caution, as it might lead to excessive lowering of blood pressure levels.

5. Respiratory Irritation: Inhaling large amounts of ylang-ylang oil vapor, especially in individuals with respiratory sensitivities, could potentially cause respiratory irritation, coughing, or discomfort