Sweet Benefits of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil for Emotional Well-Being
Ylang ylang essential oil Cananga odorata, extracted from the delicate, star-shaped flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, is treasured not just for its sweet, floral aroma, but also for its profound emotional benefits. This multifaceted oil has been a staple in traditional medicine and aromatherapy for centuries, helping to promote relaxation, support stress, and uplift the spirit. Let’s explore how ylang ylang can support your emotional well-being and discover ways to incorporate it into your self-care routine.
Emotional Benefits of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
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Stress Support: Ylang ylang’s soothing aroma is often associated with promoting relaxation and creating a sense of calm, which may support a balanced nervous system.
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Mood Enhancement: The uplifting scent of ylang ylang can enhance a positive mood and promote feelings of joy. Blend it with citrus essential oils like bergamot Citrus aurantium var. Bergamia or sweet orange Citrus sinensis for an emotional boost.
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Romantic Connection: Known as the “flower of flowers,” ylang ylang has been used as an aphrodisiac in many cultures. Its sweet, sensual aroma can help set the mood and enhance intimacy.1
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Maintaining Quality Sleep: Ylang ylang’s calming properties can help you unwind and prepare for restorative sleep. Add a few drops to your pillow or diffuse it in your bedroom.
How to Use Ylang Ylang for Emotional Well-Being
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Aromatherapy Diffusion: Add 4–6 drops of ylang ylang essential oil to your diffuser and enjoy its soothing scent in your home or workspace.
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Relaxing Bath Blend: Mix 3 drops of ylang ylang with 2 drops of lavender essential oil Lavandula angustifolia and a teaspoon of carrier oil, then add to warm bathwater.
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DIY Perfume: Combine ylang ylang with a carrier oil and your favorite essential oils, such as jasmine Jasminum grandiflorum or sandalwood Santalum album, for a natural, mood-enhancing fragrance.
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Massage Oil: Dilute ylang ylang in a carrier oil like sweet almond Prunus amygdalus var. Dulcis or jojoba Simmondsia chinensis, and use it for a calming self-massage or partner massage.
Relaxing Bath Recipe
Transform your bath into a serene escape with this Relaxing DIY Bath Soak recipe. This blend is perfect for unwinding after a long day. Whether you're soaking your feet, hands, or your whole body, it will rejuvenate to your self-care routine.
Ingredients:
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2 drops Ylang ylang oil Cananga odorata
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3 drops Clary sage oil Salvia sclarea
Directions:
Blend the oils and add the entire diluted mixture once to your bath or bowl (for a foot or hand soak), giving it a good swish to mix. Immerse yourself for a wonderful, relaxing soak.
Embrace Ylang Ylang Safely
Ylang ylang essential oil is a powerful ally for emotional well-being, offering a natural way to support stress management, uplift your mood, and cultivate relaxation. However, it’s important to use it mindfully, as its strong aroma can be overwhelming for some. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed, always diluting it with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin and performing a patch test to avoid irritation. Whether you’re diffusing it at home, incorporating it into your skincare routine, or simply enjoying its sweet, floral scent, have fun exploring recipes and uses that support your emotional health!
Learn more ways to incorporate essential oils in your daily life with AROMA 101 Introduction to Aromatherapy, offered by American College of Healthcare Sciences.
Sources:
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Srivastava, P., & Bajaj, A. (2014). Ylang-ylang oil Not an Uncommon Sensitizer in India. Indian journal of dermatology, 59(2), 200–201. https://doi.org/10.4103/0019-5154.127693