Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Benefits, Uses, Safety & Blends

QUICK SUMMARY

The “Queen” of essential oils,  ylang ylang essential oil is steam-distilled from the fragrant yellow flowers of the tropical Cananga odorata tree. Known as the “perfume tree,” ylang ylang has a rich, sweet, floral aroma and is commonly used in aromatherapy, natural perfumes, skin care, hair care, massage oils, and homemade cleaning blends.

Ylang ylang oil is best known for its calming benefits. Research suggests that it may help reduce stress, promote relaxation, support healthy blood pressure, calm the nervous system when used topically, support inflammatory balance, help with healthy blood sugar pathways, repel certain insects, and encourage emotional intimacy when used properly.

The best ways to use ylang ylang essential oil are diffusion, inhalation, and diluted topical application. Because ylang ylang can be sensitizing to the skin, it should always be diluted carefully, and most adults should stay at or below a 0.8% topical dilution.

What Is Ylang Ylang Essential Oil?

If frankincense is the King of Essential Oils, then ylang ylang essential oil benefits make this his Queen! Simply put, the healing potential of this potent remedy is absolutely remarkable, and the research supporting many traditional uses is impressive.

Ylang ylang essential oil comes from the fresh flowers of Cananga odorata, an evergreen tropical tree native to parts of Asia, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and islands of the Indian Ocean. Also known as the “perfume tree,” ylang ylang produces intensely fragrant blossoms that are steam-distilled to create one of the most recognizable floral essential oils in the world.

Ylang ylang oil is widely used in perfumes, body care, hair care, natural home products, and aromatherapy blends because of its sweet, floral, slightly fruity aroma. It is often described as romantic, exotic, calming, and deeply relaxing. That aroma is one reason it has been traditionally used for emotional balance, stress relief, sensuality, skin care, and natural perfume blends.

But ylang ylang is more than a beautiful scent. Its essential oil contains a complex blend of aromatic compounds, including linalool, germacrene D, benzyl acetate, benzyl benzoate, beta-caryophyllene, and other constituents that may help explain its calming, anti-inflammatory, insect-repelling, and antimicrobial activity.

Ylang ylang is one of those oils where “more” is not always better. The aroma is powerful, and the oil can be skin-sensitizing when used too heavily. A little goes a long way. Used wisely, it can be a beautiful addition to your essential oil toolbox for calming the nervous system, supporting emotional balance, and creating luxurious DIY body care products.

Grades of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Although ylang ylang essential oil is steam-distilled, the extraction process is different from many other essential oils. Through a method known as fractional distillation, the oil is collected at different stages of the distillation process. Each collection has a slightly different aroma, chemical profile, and common use. (1)

That is why ylang ylang essential oil is commonly sold in several grades: Extra, I, II, III, and Complete.

• Ylang Ylang Extra: This is the first fraction collected during the earliest part of distillation. It is often considered the most delicate, floral, and perfume-like grade. It is usually the most expensive and is often prized by natural perfumers.
• Ylang Ylang I, II, and III: These grades are collected later in the distillation process. As distillation continues, each fraction changes in aroma and constituent profile. Later grades are often used in soaps, body care, hair care, and fragrance blends.
• Ylang Ylang Complete: This represents the full distillation or a combination of the collected fractions. It gives a broader aromatic profile and is often the best choice for general aromatherapy, DIY skin care, diffuser blends, and massage oils.

For most families, ylang ylang complete is the most practical option. It gives you the full floral aroma without requiring you to understand the subtle perfume differences between each fraction. If you are creating fine natural perfumes, you may prefer ylang ylang extra. If you are making homemade soap, shampoo, body oils, or cleaning blends, ylang ylang complete or one of the later grades may be more cost-effective.

The grade matters because ylang ylang is powerful. Extra may smell sweeter and more refined, while later grades can be heavier, richer, and more intense. No matter which grade you choose, buy from a reputable company that provides transparency around sourcing, purity, and testing.

7 Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Benefits

Ylang ylang has been used traditionally for skin support, insect bites, relaxation, emotional balance, and sensuality. Modern research is still developing, and not every traditional use has been proven in human clinical trials. But several areas stand out, especially for stress, relaxation, cardiovascular support, topical calming, household use, and emotional wellness.

1. Soothe Inflammation

This is a big one.

Inflammation is one of the most destructive processes affecting health today, and while nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used, long-term use is not without risk. That is why our family focuses on the foundations first: eating an anti-inflammatory diet, practicing calming habits like deep breathing and meditation, exercising regularly, getting sound sleep, and using natural remedies wisely. (2)

Research on ylang ylang suggests that the oil contains compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Earlier studies pointed to ylang ylang as an essential oil with meaningful anti-inflammatory potential, and more recent research has also found that ylang ylang essential oil affected inflammatory pathways in both in vitro and in vivo models. (3)

That does not mean ylang ylang oil is a treatment for inflammatory disease. It means that, when used correctly, it may be one helpful tool in a broader anti-inflammatory lifestyle. Because stress, poor sleep, and nervous system overload can all feed inflammatory patterns, the calming properties of ylang ylang may also indirectly support the body’s inflammatory balance.

Application: Add 1 drop of ylang ylang and 3 drops of lavender to 2 tablespoons of carrier oil. Massage into tense shoulders, the back of the neck, or tired muscles after a warm shower. Stay within the recommended 0.8% dermal limit for ylang ylang, especially if applying regularly.

2. Healthy Blood Pressure and Heart Rate

One of the most researched ylang ylang essential oil benefits is its calming effect on the cardiovascular system.

In a study published in the Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation, researchers evaluated whether inhaling ylang ylang essential oil in a closed room for 20 minutes affected blood pressure and heart rate in healthy men. The results showed significant decreases in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the ylang ylang group, and EKG measurements showed a slower heart rate following inhalation. (4)

Another study evaluated an aromatherapy blend of lemon, lavender, and ylang ylang in people with essential hypertension. Participants inhaled the blend for three weeks, and researchers found a significant difference in systolic blood pressure and sympathetic nervous system activity compared with the control group. (5)

This is where ylang ylang really shines. It appears to help the body shift away from a stressed, sympathetic state and toward a calmer state. That matters because stress, tension, shallow breathing, and constant overactivation can all affect the cardiovascular system.

Of course, essential oils are not a replacement for medical care, blood pressure monitoring, medication, or your physician’s guidance. But ylang ylang may be a beautiful aromatic tool to include in a heart-healthy lifestyle that already includes nutrition, movement, sleep, stress reduction, and prayerful stewardship.

Application: Add 1 drop ylang ylang, 2 drops lavender, and 2 drops lemon to your diffuser and enjoy for 20 to 30 minutes during a quiet evening routine. If you are sensitive to strong floral aromas, reduce ylang ylang to a toothpick swirl or blend it with more citrus.

3. Calming

In addition to inhalation, ylang ylang has also been studied for its calming effects when applied to the skin.

One study found that massaging a ylang ylang dilution in sweet almond oil over the abdomen for five minutes resulted in a significant decrease in blood pressure and a significant increase in skin temperature. A rise in skin temperature can indicate relaxation and reduced sympathetic nervous system activity. Participants also reported feeling more calm and relaxed. (6)

This is one reason ylang ylang is such a popular addition to massage oils, body oils, bath oils, and natural perfume blends. The aroma is emotionally grounding, and the ritual of topical application can help cue the body to slow down.

The key is dilution. Ylang ylang is beautiful, but it is also one of the essential oils that can irritate the skin when used too strongly or too often. The study used a higher concentration than we recommend for normal home use. For everyday family use, we recommend staying within the 0.8% dermal limit.

Application: To enjoy the calming effects, mix 1 drop of ylang ylang essential oil into 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, or fractionated coconut oil. Massage a small amount over the abdomen, chest, or shoulders. Use just enough to cover the skin and avoid over-application.

4. Healthy Blood Sugar Pathways

The original research in this area is fascinating, but it needs to be framed carefully.

Compounds isolated from the flower buds of Cananga odorata have been studied for their effects on aldose reductase, an enzyme involved in converting glucose to sorbitol. Sorbitol accumulation is one pathway researchers have examined in relation to diabetes complications such as cataracts, neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy. (7, 8)

This does not mean ylang ylang essential oil treats diabetes, lowers blood sugar, reverses insulin resistance, or prevents complications. The research is not saying that. Much of this evidence is based on isolated compounds and laboratory investigation, not clinical diabetes treatment protocols.

What it does suggest is that Cananga odorata contains biologically active compounds worth studying for metabolic health and oxidative stress pathways. For families interested in Biblical health and natural living, this is another reminder that plants are chemically complex, and many traditional remedies are being studied for very real biological activity.

If you have diabetes, prediabetes, neuropathy, kidney disease, eye disease, or blood sugar concerns, work with your physician and monitor your numbers. Essential oils should never replace medical care, medication, blood sugar monitoring, nutrition, or lifestyle changes.

Application: For general wellness and relaxation, apply a 0.8% or lower dilution over the abdomen or bottoms of the feet during an evening wind-down routine. For easy-to-follow dilution guidance, download our free dilution chart.

5. Repel Insects

Ylang ylang has also been used traditionally to help with insect concerns. Modern research suggests that ylang ylang essential oil may have insect-repelling and ovicidal activity, meaning it may help deter egg-laying or affect mosquito eggs in certain settings.

One study evaluated seven essential oils against three mosquito vectors: Aedes aegypti, Anopheles dirus, and Culex quinquefasciatus. Ylang ylang showed activity as an oviposition deterrent and ovicidal agent in that research setting. (9)

That is important, but it needs to be applied honestly. This does not mean ylang ylang oil prevents mosquito-borne illness. It does not mean ylang ylang should replace proven public health measures, protective clothing, safe environmental control, or common-sense mosquito prevention.

But it does mean ylang ylang can be a useful ingredient in natural insect-repellent blends, outdoor sprays, and some household cleaning applications. It blends well with citronella, lemongrass, cedarwood, lavender, geranium, peppermint, and eucalyptus.

Application: Add ylang ylang to your homemade insect repellent or outdoor cleaning blends. Because the aroma is strong, start low. Try 1 drop ylang ylang with stronger insect-repelling oils like citronella, cedarwood, or lemongrass in a properly diluted spray or roll-on.

6. Cleaner Household Surfaces

Along with oregano, eucalyptus, tea tree, cinnamon, and lemongrass, ylang ylang has been studied for activity against biofilm. Biofilm is the slimy, protective layer that certain bacteria can form on surfaces. It is a major concern in clinical settings, devices, and infectious disease research. (10)

In one study evaluating 83 essential oils, cananga oil, which comes from the same plant commonly known as ylang ylang, was one of the top performers against Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation in a lab setting. Researchers found that black pepper, cananga, and myrrh oils, along with the common constituent cis-nerolidol, markedly inhibited biofilm formation. (11)

For home use, this makes ylang ylang an interesting addition to DIY cleaning blends, especially when combined with other stronger oils. However, lab results do not mean a homemade cleaner is a registered disinfectant. Essential oil cleaning blends should not be relied on for medical disinfection, food safety, or situations requiring EPA-registered disinfectants.

For everyday cleaning, though, ylang ylang can add a beautiful aroma and may contribute to a broader natural home strategy.

Application: Add 1 to 2 drops of ylang ylang to your favorite homemade dusting spray, floor cleaner, or all-purpose cleaning blend. Pair it with lemon, tea tree, eucalyptus, or lavender for a fresher, more balanced scent.

7. Emotional Intimacy

Ylang ylang is famous as an aphrodisiac. But is that reputation accurate?

The answer is more nuanced than most people realize. Ylang ylang may not work by directly increasing desire in the way people often imagine. Instead, its deeper gift may be helping calm the stress, anxiety, tension, and emotional walls that interfere with intimacy.

Traditional use points to ylang ylang for romance, sensuality, and emotional warmth. Research has also suggested that inhaling ylang ylang may reduce anxiety related to sexual experience. (12) That makes sense. When the nervous system is overwhelmed, the body is not primed for connection. When the body feels safe, calm, and settled, emotional and physical intimacy often become more natural.

This is where ylang ylang can be a beautiful marriage-supporting oil. Not as a magic potion. Not as a manipulative tool. As a calming aroma that can help create an atmosphere of peace, warmth, and connection.

Application: Create a romantic diffuser blend with 1 drop ylang ylang, 2 drops orange, and 2 drops sandalwood or frankincense. For a massage oil, dilute 1 drop ylang ylang in 2 tablespoons of carrier oil and blend with 1 drop lavender or rose. Avoid sensitive areas and always patch test first.

How to Use Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Safely

Ylang ylang essential oil can be used aromatically or topically when properly diluted. Because the aroma is strong and the oil can be skin-sensitizing, you do not need much. In many blends, 1 drop is plenty.

For aromatic use, add ylang ylang to a diffuser, personal inhaler, cotton ball, tissue, diffuser jewelry, or aromatherapy necklace. This is often the best way to use ylang ylang for stress relief, emotional balance, relaxation, and sleep routines.

For topical use, always dilute ylang ylang in a carrier oil before applying it to the skin. Good carrier oils include jojoba, fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil, avocado oil, or olive oil. Ylang ylang works beautifully in massage oils, body oils, natural perfumes, hair oils, scalp blends, and calming bedtime oils.

Ylang ylang is not an oil to use heavily. Safety experts commonly recommend a maximum dermal use level of 0.8% because ylang ylang can be skin-reactive for some people. This is especially important for leave-on products, repeated use, sensitive skin, damaged skin, children, and anyone prone to allergic reactions. (13)

Do not apply ylang ylang essential oil directly to the skin without dilution. Avoid the eyes, inner ears, mucous membranes, and broken or irritated skin. If you have sensitive skin, do a small patch test first.

Also be mindful of when you use it. In one study comparing peppermint and ylang ylang aromas, peppermint increased alertness while ylang ylang increased calmness, reduced alertness, and lengthened processing speed. (14) That does not mean ylang ylang harms your brain. It simply means this is probably not the oil to diffuse before a major exam, a long drive, or a public speaking event where you need sharp alertness.

If you are pregnant, nursing, using oils with children, taking medication, managing a medical condition, or under a doctor’s care, talk with a qualified health professional before using essential oils therapeutically.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil FAQs

What is ylang ylang essential oil used for?

Ylang ylang essential oil is most commonly used for calming aromatherapy, stress relief, relaxation, natural perfume, massage oils, hair care, skin care, romantic diffuser blends, and homemade cleaning products. Research also suggests benefits for blood pressure, heart rate, nervous system calming, inflammatory balance, insect-repelling activity, and biofilm-related surface research.

What does ylang ylang essential oil smell like?

Ylang ylang has a rich, sweet, floral, exotic aroma. Some people describe it as romantic, tropical, powdery, fruity, or jasmine-like. The scent is strong, so a little goes a long way.

What is the difference between ylang ylang extra and ylang ylang complete?

Ylang ylang extra is collected during the earliest stage of distillation and is often prized in perfumery for its delicate floral notes. Ylang ylang complete represents the broader full distillation profile and is often the best choice for general aromatherapy, diffuser blends, massage oils, and DIY body care.

Is ylang ylang essential oil good for stress?

Yes, ylang ylang is best known as a calming oil. Human studies suggest that inhalation or diluted topical use may help promote relaxation, lower heart rate, support healthy blood pressure, and calm sympathetic nervous system activity.

Can ylang ylang oil lower blood pressure?

Research suggests that inhaling ylang ylang essential oil may support healthy blood pressure and heart rate in some settings. However, it should not replace blood pressure medication, medical monitoring, or physician care. If you have hypertension or cardiovascular disease, use ylang ylang as a supportive wellness tool only under appropriate guidance.

Can you put ylang ylang essential oil directly on your skin?

No. Ylang ylang essential oil should be diluted before topical use. Because it can be skin-sensitizing, adults should generally stay at or below a 0.8% dilution for leave-on products.

Is ylang ylang good for sleep?

Ylang ylang may be helpful in evening routines because it promotes calmness and relaxation. It blends well with lavender, Roman chamomile, cedarwood, bergamot, sandalwood, and frankincense for bedtime diffuser blends.

Does ylang ylang essential oil help with hair?

Ylang ylang is commonly used in natural hair care and scalp massage blends because of its beautiful aroma and traditional use in beauty care. Always dilute it properly before applying to the scalp, and avoid getting it in the eyes.

Is ylang ylang an aphrodisiac?

Ylang ylang has a long reputation as an aphrodisiac, but the better-supported explanation is that it may help reduce stress and anxiety, creating a calmer atmosphere for emotional intimacy. It is best viewed as a romantic, calming aroma rather than a guaranteed sexual stimulant.

What oils blend well with ylang ylang?

Ylang ylang blends well with lavender, orange, bergamot, lemon, grapefruit, sandalwood, frankincense, rose, jasmine, geranium, clary sage, cedarwood, patchouli, vetiver, Roman chamomile, and marjoram.

Who should avoid ylang ylang essential oil?

People with very sensitive skin, damaged skin, a history of fragrance allergies, or known sensitivity to ylang ylang should avoid it or use extreme caution. Avoid using it undiluted, avoid use around the eyes or mucous membranes, and consult a qualified professional if you are pregnant, nursing, using oils with children, or under medical care.

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