Ylang Ylang – the Flower of Flowers
07-12-2007
Essential oils distilled from flowers are known to cost more than most other essential oils due to number of flowers needed to produce the essential oil. The Oriental flower, ylang ylang, produces one of the more affordable flower oils; in fact, the flower is one of the few raw materials subject to multiple distillations producing various qualities of oils from ylang ylang extra (the most prized) to ylang ylangs 1, 2, and 3. The sensual, heady fragrance has been likened to both narcissus and jasmine.
Historically, islanders in the Phillipines would infuse the flowers with coconut oil and use the pomade produced to prevent fevers and infections and to nourish the skin. The oil is considered a tonic for the heart when nervous tension and stress lead to tachycardia and hypertension. It is calming to the nervous system promoting rest, relaxation, and sleep. Conversely, it is also considered an aphrodisiac and the flowers were spread on the marriage bed of Indonesian newlyweds. Within this context, the oil is especially used in cases of frigidity and impotence. Ylang ylang is also known to balance the female immune system reducing cramps, headaches, and PMS. It has been included in many perfumes and beauty products and even used in hair treatments to stimulate hair growth. Medicinally, ylang ylang has been shown to be effecting in treating malaria, typhus, intestinal tract infections, and epilepsy.
In the study reviewed in HC 010273.332, the authors found that ylang ylang oil reduced blood pressure, while increasing calmness and relaxation. These results correspond with the observation made by R. W. Moncrieff in his book Odours that "ylang ylang soothes and inhibits anger born of frustration." With its calming actions on the cardiovascular and nervous systems and its ability to help those suffering from apathy and depression to blossom, ylang ylang essential oil may provide an aromatic way to alleviate some of today's more insidious maladies.
Lori Glenn, Managing Editor |