YLANG YLANG ESSENTIAL OIL
An intensely sweet and exotic floral oil treasured in perfumery and aromatic body care.
Botanical Information
Botanical Name: Cananga odorata
Common Name: Ylang Ylang
Family: Annonaceae
Origin of Plant: Maritime Southeast Asia; widely cultivated in tropical regions
Method of Extraction: Steam or water distilled from fresh flowers; confirm fraction or Complete oil
Note: Varies by fraction; generally Middle to Base
Colour: Pale yellow to golden yellow
Aroma: Intensely sweet, floral, rich and exotic
About This Essential Oil
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is distilled from the fragrant flowers of Cananga odorata. Its rich, sweet and persistent aroma is highly valued in fine fragrance, natural perfumery, diffuser blends and carefully formulated body and hair products. Commercial oils may be collected in successive fractions—commonly Extra, I, II and III—or sold as Ylang Ylang Complete. Each has a different aromatic and chemical profile, so the exact grade must be identified for every batch.
Key Benefits
• Provides an intensely sweet and luxurious floral aroma
• Creates a soft, tranquil aromatic atmosphere
• Popular in natural perfumery and fine fragrance
• Adds depth to carefully formulated body and hair products
• Useful as a rich middle-to-base note
• Blends beautifully with citrus, floral, woody and resinous oils
History
Cananga odorata is native to Maritime Southeast Asia and has long been cultivated across tropical regions for its highly fragrant flowers. In parts of Indonesia, Ylang Ylang flowers have traditionally been associated with weddings and intimacy. The oil later became important in European perfumery, cosmetics, soaps and hair preparations. The commonly repeated translation 'flower of flowers' is uncertain and should be treated as a popular interpretation rather than settled fact.
Main Chemical Components
40% Sesquiterpenes, 20% Alcohols, 15% Esters 10% Phenols
Aromatic Characteristics
• Intensely sweet, floral, rich and softly spicy
• Persistent middle-to-base note; potent at low proportions
Aromatic Uses
• Creates a soft floral atmosphere and enriches natural perfumes
• Complements formulated body, hair, citrus and woody blends
Aromatic Profile
• Lush, heady and distinctive
• Sweet floral opening with warm, creamy and balsamic nuances
Blends Well With
Bergamot, Grapefruit, Geranium, Jasmine, Lavender, Lemon, Neroli, Orange, Patchouli, Rose, Rosewood and Sandalwood. Use sparingly, as it can dominate a blend.
Health & Safety
• For external aromatic use only; do not ingest or apply undiluted.
• May sensitise or irritate skin; patch test and stop if a reaction occurs.
• Avoid eyes, mucous membranes, broken skin and undiluted bath use.
• Strong or prolonged aroma may cause headache, dizziness or nausea; use small amounts with good ventilation.
• Do not assume child suitability; seek age-specific advice. Seek qualified advice during pregnancy, breastfeeding or medical care.
• Check fragrance allergens and cosmetic limits. Oxidised oil may sensitise; keep tightly closed and use fresh oil.
• Keep from children and animals; store below 25°C away from sunlight and heat.
