In a recent post about natural ways to get a good night’s sleep, I mentioned ylang ylang essential oil. I’ve been diffusing this oil every night lately, and I’ve noticed I sleep better when I do. In fact, ylang ylang is quickly become one of my favorite oils for any situation that requires calm!
Ylang ylang is a fascinating gift of nature. The oil is steam distilled from the flowers of the ylang ylang tree, which is native to rain forest climates. The sight of the tree itself will make you feel calm and relaxed. It has small unusually-shaped flowers that blend beautifully with the leaves of the tree. The flowers have a very sweet, almost fruity floral scent.
Ylang Ylang Distillation
When ylang ylang essential oil is produced, the flowers are distilled in three steps. That’s why you might notice your bottle of ylang ylang essential oil has a Roman numeral following the name. An oil labeled “ylang ylang I” is the result of only the first distillation of the flowers. The most effective type of ylang ylang is labeled “ylang ylang complete,” which means it contains oil from all three distillations.
Ylang Ylang Benefits
Ylang ylang essential oil is used in aromatherapy for its soothing and relaxing qualities. It helps to calm the nervous system, so it’s excellent as a remedy for insomnia. It’s also a good choice when you’re anxious, angry or stressed. The uplifting aroma of ylang ylang can help lift a low mood in people with depression. Likewise, it can boost libido, making it effective as an aphrodisiac. The oil’s relaxing properties may also help lower blood pressure.
For those interested in chakra balancing, ylang ylang essential oil is a good tonic for the third (solar plexus) chakra. This makes sense, since the third chakra is our center of creativity and personal power, qualities that shine when we’re not tense, anxious or depressed.
Blending ylang ylang
If you have an essential oil blend intended for any kind of calming effect, check the label. It’s likely that ylang ylang is included in the mix. Ylang ylang blends well with cedarwood, bergamot, lavender and grapefruit.
So if you’ve never heard of ylang ylang, or if you just haven’t tried it yet, be look for it next time you need an essential oil to help you relax!
Third Eye 