Ylang-ylang: benefits and ways to use this powerful essential oil

Ylang-ylang is the common name of Cananga odorata, a tree known for its flowers, from which the essential oil is extracted. In aromatherapy it is one of the most important and used oils, because it promotes both physical and mental balance. Aromatherapist Maria Gabriela de Queiroz explains below some benefits and more information about ylang-ylang.

7 benefits of ylang-ylang

1. Sedative action: it has sedative properties that have a relaxing effect on the nervous system.
2. Reduces blood pressure: as it has sedative properties, ylang-ylang essential oil helps fight high blood pressure.
3. Strengthens the hair: it has tonic and strengthening characteristics for all hair types. It acts in the nutrition of the wires, assists in growth and volume increase.
4. It is an aphrodisiac: in aromatherapy it is used in treatments against frigidity and female sexual asthenia.
5. Balances hormones: it acts in the balance of female hormones, as well as being a powerful tonic for the uterus.
6. Helps mental balance: it is indicated in cases of anguish, stress, depression and panic.
7. It has benefits for the skin: it is suitable for all skin types, has rejuvenating and antioxidant properties.

It is worth mentioning that to obtain these benefits it is necessary to consult aromatherapy professionals who will indicate the best way to use it for each objective.

Recommendations for using ylang-ylang

The most common way to get the benefits of ylang-ylang is from the essential oil. The oil can be used through two main routes: inhalation and cutaneous. See below for more details on usage recommendations.

• Via inhalation: it is recommended to use a drop of the essential oil in the diffuser necklace.
• In the environment: through the outlet diffuser, about 10 drops of essential oil are diluted in a small amount of water.
• On the skin: it must be diluted in some vegetable oil, such as coconut, sunflower or sesame oil (always cold pressed). For every 50 ml of vegetable oil, add about 12 drops of ylang-ylang essential oil.
• For massages: it must also be diluted in the same way explained above. Great for relaxing massages, relieving stress, agitation and anxiety.
• On hair: it can be diluted in hair treatment masks, just add 5 drops of the oil and let it act according to the mask manufacturer’s instructions.

Ylang-ylang is versatile and has several recommendations for use. But to enjoy its benefits, it is important to always pay attention to the forms of use and the correct proportions of dilution.

Contraindications

Despite being a natural treatment, care must be taken when using it. Maria Gabriela explains that excessive use can cause headaches and nausea. “It can also irritate already sensitive or inflamed skins”, highlights the aromatherapist.

Remember that this oil must be diluted for use: “always use in small amounts and diluted in water, in case you use it in an outlet diffuser or in vegetable oil for the cutaneous route”, he warns.

Ylang-ylang treatments can certainly help you with many issues. Remember to follow the recommendations and if any doubt persists, contact professionals in the field. Also know the benefits of Bambootherapy.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.