Ylang-ylang oil

Last Updated: July 31, 2024

Ylang-ylang oil is an essential oil that has most commonly been studied as aromatherapy for anxiety and promoting calmness. While ylang-ylang oil may have some sedative-like effects, it has not improved anxiety in randomized controlled trials. More research is required to substantiate ylang-ylang oil’s sedative-like effects and to shed light on the mechanisms of how it might exert these effects.

dosageDosage

Ylang-ylang oil is most often used for

What is ylang-ylang oil?

Ylang-ylang oil is derived from the aromatic flowers of the cananga tree (Cananga odorata), which is native to Malaysia and Indonesia, and is commonly used in the perfume and cosmetic industries. Additionally, it is used in aromatherapy for various benefits, including reducing anxiety and improving self-esteem, as well as serving as an insecticide.

What are ylang-ylang oil’s main benefits?

Ylang-ylang oil has been shown to have sedative-like effects; it increased calmness and relaxation and decreased blood pressure and heart rate in some studies. However, it has not consistently reduced anxiety or improved related outcomes, and results have been mixed across various randomized controlled trials.

What are ylang-ylang oil’s main drawbacks?

Ylang-ylang oil can cause mild to moderate contact dermatitis in some people, particularly in those who are exposed to larger amounts in aromatherapy settings. Additionally, it has been identified as having a relatively higher risk of side effects compared to other aromatherapy plants, and case reports indicate adverse effects.

How does ylang-ylang oil work?

Ylang-ylang oil possesses antioxidant, antibacterial, and antifungal properties and contains various compounds, including linalool, which may suggest potential effects on anxiety, depression, and sleep, similar to lavender oil. However, evidence regarding its effectiveness for these conditions is inconsistent; some studies show no significant effects on anxiety or cortisol levels, and findings from animal studies may not be applicable to humans.

What are other names for Ylang-ylang oil?
Note that Ylang-ylang oil is also known as:
  • Cananga odorata
  • Cananga tree
Ylang-ylang oil should not be confused with:
  • Cananga tree oil
  • Cananga oil[4]
Dosage information

No specific dosage has yet been determined for use in aromatherapy. When applied to the skin, the maximum safe concentration of ylang-ylang oil may be 0.8%.[1]

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Update History
2024-07-31 00:30:03

New page created

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Entirely new FAQ created on Ylang-Ylang Oil, showing that while Ylang-Ylang may have some calmness-promoting effects, claims of improving anxiety have not been consistently substantiated in randomized controlled trials.

Written By

Peter Woznik

Reviewed By

Katie Jantz
References
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