Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Ylang ylang essential oil is a fragrant botanical extract - known for its rich, sweet floral aroma, it has long been valued in perfumery and aromatherapy.

In addition, much of the scientific interest surrounding ylang ylang centres on its interaction with the nervous system and emotional wellbeing. Studies describe gentle sedative and mood regulating properties that make the oil particularly relevant during periods of stress.

The oil has also attracted attention in dermatology and scalp care.

What Ylang Ylang essential oil is and its potential health benefits explained

Ylang ylang essential oil comes from the flowers of Cananga odorata and is widely recognised as a versatile aromatic extract.

Researchers have explored its potential effects on the nervous system and the skin. Much of the research focuses on its calming and mood supporting properties, alongside its role in skincare and hair care. Some studies have also looked into its broader anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic activity.

Mood and feel good benefits

Evidence from studies links ylang ylang to anxiety reduction, stress relief, mood support and neuropathic pain research, with proposed effects on serotonergic and dopaminergic pathways and increased serotonin levels in the hippocampus (in the brain). In other words, it can release your happy and feel good chemicals.

Skin, scalp and anti-inflammatory care

Because of its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties ylang ylang is presented as relevant to skin discomfort, dandruff, scalp psoriasis and experimental arthritis related inflammation.

Benefits of Ylang Ylang as seen in studies

Anti anxiety effects: A 2014 pilot study involving nursing professionals reported improved self esteem after inhalation or cutaneous use (on the skin)(1).

Mood modulation: Research suggests that ylang ylang may influence chemical messengers in the brain, including serotonin and dopamine. Higher serotonin activity in the hippocampus, a region involved in emotional processing, is associated with a calming and mood stabilising effect (2).

Pain support: A 2022 animal study reported that oral administration of ylang ylang oil reduced neuropathic pain, a type of pain caused by nerve damage. The treatment also lowered signs of neuroinflammation and reduced anxiety behaviours, suggesting the oil may influence both pain perception and the body’s inflammatory response (3).

Skin and scalp benefits: For skin and scalp care, ylang ylang is described as having antimicrobial and antioxidant activity against a range of bacterial and fungal strains. It is also presented as being studied for acne, eczema and psoriasis through its ability to reduce inflammation in skin cells (4, 5).

Traditional and modern use includes dandruff and scalp psoriasis, and newer formulations are noted for improving skin hydration and sebum control.

Safety

Ylang ylang is generally safe, but it is also described as containing potential allergens, including isoeugenol, usually when it is not properly diluted. Also, it is advised to patch test before use.

Precautions

The clearest way to avoid reaction is dilution. Because the oil may irritate skin cells at unsuitable strength and contains recognised allergens, topical use calls for care. This is especially relevant where skin sensitivity is a concern.

Takeaways

Ylang ylang is mostly portrayed as a calming aromatic oil with anxiolytic potential.

It also supports skin, the scalp and has broader anti-inflammatory benefits. Please be aware that safe use depends on proper dilution and awareness of allergen potential.