With its exotic, highly floral aroma, ylang-ylang is uplifting and arousing, and at the same time eases feelings of anxiety. A key constituent of the traditional hair preparation, macassar oil, its balancing properties make it suitable for all skin types.

What is it good for?

Improves complexion Ylang ylang has a balancing action on the secretion of sebum, helping to regulate its production, making it an ideal skin cleanser for both oily and dry skin types. It is a particularly effective tonic for acne-prone complexions.

Tones skin With its stimulating effect, ylang-ylang helps to improve the structure and appearance of tired or sagging skin, restoring a youthful glow.

Nourishes hair The oil has a long history as a treatment for dry hair. It nourishes and stimulates the scalp, and conditions dry, brittle hair. It is even reputed to promote hair growth.

Aids relaxation Stimulating and calming, ylang-ylang essential oil is well placed for increasing feelings of well-being. Its calming properties have demonstrable effects, helping to lower blood pressure and breathing rates, in turn reducing feelings of anxiety

Acts as an aphrodisiac The arousing aroma of ylang-ylang and its renowned relaxing effect make this oil a popular aphrodisiac, since it helps to release inhibitions and ease tension, while arousing the olfactory senses. Traditionally, petals were scattered on the beds of newlyweds to help dispel anxiety.

Treats depression The sedating and calming properties make it useful support in the treatment of depression and tension.

Best Uses:

As a skin toner Add 1–2 drops of the oil to 0.3oz (10ml) witch hazel and 1.7oz (50ml) water. Dab on with cotton ball.

As a hair tonic For a dry scalp, add 1–2 drops ylang-ylang oil to 1 teaspoon olive oil and massage into the scalp before bed. Brush through the hair with a natural-bristle brush, and wash out in the morning

As a perfume The essential oil can be used neat as a simple perfume. Or you can mix 1–2 drops in a teaspoon of a base oil, such as apricot kernel, and apply it to the pulse points.

In a massage oil For a skin-toning and relaxing massage, add 1–2 drops of ylang-ylang oil to a base oil blend.

As a bath oil Add 1–2 drops of the oil to a base oil or 1 tablespoon of milk and disperse in the bath.

Safe usage Nontoxic and nonirritant. Because it has a powerful scent, use well diluted, unless using neat as a perfume.