Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia and famed for its sweet, floral fragrance. The essential oil extracted from ylang ylang flower, commonly known as Ylang Ylang oil, has been used for ma ny centuries in traditional medicine and aromatherapy. [1] As per Ayurveda, among the Panchamahabhuta (five elements), Prithvi (Earth) Mahabhoota is associated with the sense of smell (Gandha tanmatra), which forms the basis of aromatherapy. Pleasant smells, such as those emanating from ylang ylang oil, are believed to impact both physical and mental well-being positively. [5]
Ylang Ylang oil offers a wide range of skin and hair care benefits. This article will explore 12 amazing benefits of Ylang Ylang oil for skin and hair.
Top benefits of Ylang Ylang oil
1. Moisturizes and Hydrates Skin:
Ylang Ylang oil is a commonly used natural ingredient in moisturizing creams that helps lock in moisture and hydrate your skin. It is especially beneficial for treating dry, dehydrated skin, as it prevents moisture loss and leaves the skin soft and supple. [3]
2. Soothes Inflammation and Irritation:
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties,Ylang Ylang oil can soothe various skin irritations like redness, itching, and rashes, particularly in combination with other essential oils such as thyme oil. It is especially beneficial for sensitive and acne-prone skin. [1]
3. Fights Acne and Blemishes:
Ylang Ylang essential oil possesses antimicrobial properties and especially displays strong antibacterial and antifungal activities against Staphylococcus aureus. Regular use of the Ylang Ylang oil can lead to a reduction in acne breakouts and the appearance of blemishes. [1]
4. Improves Complexion and Anti-Wrinkle Properties:
Ylang ylang oil benefits include its ability to support skin elasticity and can help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It promotes a youthful and radiant complexion [2] and helps with skin physiology, including acne, dry skin, skin aging, dermatitis, or eczema. [4]
6. Antioxidant Properties:
The antioxidative nature of the oil can play a significant role in maintaining both the skin microbiota, which is crucial for skin health, and the protective function of the stratum corneum keeping skin youthful, healthy, and fresh, enabling its protection from environmental damage. [4]
5. Acts as a natural sunscreen
Ylang Ylangoil is often used in cosmetic products for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which help in sunscreen composition and protection against UV rays. [1]
6. Stimulates Hair Growth:
Ylang Ylang is also a common ingredient in massage oils and is known for enhancing the scent of coconut oil before being used for massage. [3] Massaging the scalp with ylang ylang oil for hair can improve blood circulation, which, in turn, stimulates hair follicles and promotes hair growth. [1]
8. Reduces Scalp Inflammation:
Ylang Ylang oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can soothe an irritated scalp and alleviate dandruff and itchiness. [1]
9. Natural Fragrance:
One of the most popular uses of Ylang Ylang oil is its delightful fragrance. Its sweet, floral scent makes it an excellent natural perfume or addition to homemade beauty products. [2]
10. Mood Enhancer and Stress Reliever:
Ylang Ylang oil is widely recognized for its calming and relaxing effects on the mind and body. Inhaling its aroma can help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of well-being. [1] In other words, stress can actually take a toll on your skin and lead to acne breakouts. When stress is relieved your skin and hair texture improves.
11. Shirodhara:
Shirodhara is a highly effective treatment involving gently pouring lukewarm medicated oil mixed with this essential oil onto the forehead. This therapeutic technique relieves various issues such as hair loss, premature graying of hair, headaches, and much more. [5]
12. Natural Antiseptic:
Ylang ylang essential oil benefits also include the antiseptic properties that make it beneficial in wound care. It can help protect against insect bites and infections and speed up the healing process. [1]
FAQs
How to use Ylang Ylang Oil for your skin and hair?
2. Dilute Ylang Ylang oil with some carrier oil (such as coconut or castor oil) and apply it to acne-prone areas as a spot treatment.
3. Mix Ylang Ylang oil with an effective carrier oil (like virgin olive oil or jojoba oil) and apply it generously to your hair and your scalp as a nourishing hair mask.
4. Diffuse Ylang Ylang oil in an essential oil diffuser to enjoy its calming and mood-enhancing effects.
5. Combine Ylang Ylang oil with a carrier oil and use the mix as a massage oil to relax yourself and unwind.
What are the precautions that must be followed while using Ylang Ylang oil?
What is the relaxing effect of ylang-ylang oil after transdermal absorption?
Conclusion:
Ylang Ylang oil is a versatile and powerful natural remedy that provides a range of skin and hair care benefits. Its moisturizing, soothing, and antimicrobial properties make it an excellent addition to your beauty routine. Its delightful fragrance and therapeutic effects on the mind and body make it a popular choice in aromatherapy. Whether you want to improve your skin’s health or enhance the beauty of your hair, Ylang Ylang oil can be a valuable addition to your natural beauty arsenal.
Disclaimer:
This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.
