Delight In Exotic Bliss: Ylang Ylang Benefits Mind, Body & Spirit

By Caryn Gehlmann, Clinical Aromatherapist

Imagine walking through a tropical paradise, the air thick with the scent of sweet, exotic flowers. That’s the magic of Ylang Ylang, a lush floral essential oil that’s as versatile as it is enchanting. But did you know there’s more than one type of Ylang Ylang essential oil? e3 carries Ylang Ylang Extra and Ylang Ylang Complete. Let’s go on a fragrant journey to discover their differences, how they’re distilled, and how Ylang Ylang benefits your total well-being.

From Flower to Bottle: The Distillation Process

We begin our journey in tropical regions like the Philippines, Indonesia, and Madagascar where the Cananga odorata trees grow.

Step 1 Gathering Flowers: Ylang Ylang flowers are hand-picked early in the morning when they’re most aromatic. Careful handling is essential to avoid bruising the delicate petals, which could affect the quality of the oil.

Step 2 Steam Distillation: The flowers are placed in a distillation setup. As the steam moves through the flowers, it captures the aromatic compounds and carries them into a cooling chamber, where the steam condenses into liquid. The essential oil separates from the water and is collected.

Step 3 Collected at Different Stages: Ylang Ylang oil is unique because it’s distilled in fractions — being collected at different stages during a (up to 20 hours) long distillation process. Each fraction has unique qualities, so this method ensures nothing goes to waste and meets the diverse demands of Ylang-Ylang lovers! Producers work hard to cater to different industries and uses.

Ylang Ylang Categories: 

1. 1. Ylang Ylang Extra is collected during the first few hours of steam distillation. This fine, luxurious essential oil contains the most delicate and complex aromatic compounds so we get the richest and sweetest floral scent. It’s highly prized in perfumery.
   2. Grade I Ylang Ylang comes next. It’s still rich and floral but slightly less intense than Extra, and it’s often used in high-quality personal care products and fragrances.
   3. Grade II Ylang Ylang is collected later in the distillation process. It’s more balanced and less concentrated, with a slightly softer aroma. Since this oil costs less, people use it to make soaps, lotions, and other products where a milder scent is suitable.
   4. Grade III Ylang Ylang is the final fraction collected, so it has the lightest and most subdued aroma. Its subtle aroma and economical price make this a good choice for candles or household cleaners.
   5. Ylang Ylang Complete combines all the fractions (Extra, I, II, and III).  The balanced, well-rounded aroma and therapeutic properties are perfect for aromatherapy.

Step 4 Labeling: Now you can see why the designation on the label is very important!

Reputable essential oil suppliers and distributors will clearly specify which grade or type you’re buying—Ylang Ylang Extra, I, II, III, or Complete. This distinction is essential because each type has unique properties, aromas, and uses, and transparency ensures you get benefits you needs.

Why You’ll Swoon for Ylang Ylang Essential Oil

Ylang Ylang benefits are limited to its pretty aroma. It’s a wellness powerhouse. Here’s how it can work its magic in everyday life.

Ylang Ylang Melts Stress Away

After a hectic day, who doesn’t crave a moment of calm? Ylang Ylang’s calming properties are a natural mood-lifter. Add a few drops of Ylang Ylang Complete to your diffuser or blend it with Epsom salts for a soothing bath. The floral aroma helps quiet racing thoughts and restore emotional balance. Or try this recipe:

Calm Me Down Roll-on

• 10mL of Fractionated Coconut Oil
• 3 drops Ylang Ylang Complete
• 2 drops Lavender
• 2 drops Bergamot FCF

How to put together your own roll-on

Turn Up the Romance

Ylang Ylang benefits romance, too, which is no surprise! Sweet, floral, and just a little bit exotic, it’s the ultimate mood-setter. Here are a couple of ways to create an inviting, romantic atmosphere.

Ylang Ylang Romantic Mist 

• • 4 oz spritzer bottle with atomizer cap
  • 3.75 oz water
  • 2 ml Ylang Ylang Extra

Shake to mix. Spritz the room and/or bed linen.

Note: Test in an inconspicuous spot to ensure it doesn’t spot the fabric.

Make Me Feel Sexy Massage Oil

• • 10mL of Carrier Oil
  • 3 drops Ylang Ylang Extra 
  • 2 drops Sandalwood
  • 2 drops Orange Sweet

Mix and enjoy!

Note: Not for application on sensitive skin areas.

Boost Your Skin’s Natural Glow

If your skincare routine needs an upgrade, Ylang Ylang’s moisturizing properties can help. It’s known to support oil balance in the skin, making it a great option for both dry and oily skin types. Add 1–2 drops of Ylang Ylang Complete to your daily moisturizer or facial oil for an extra glow.

Find Your Inner Zen

Meditation can be hard when your mind won’t stop racing. Here’s where Ylang Ylang Complete becomes your aromatic ally. Its grounding, full-bodied aroma supports mental clarity and helps you stay present during meditation. Make your own roll-on with Ylang Ylang Complete and use it on your temples and wrists before beginning meditation. Or try this diffuser recipe:

Diffuser Blend For Meditation

• • 3 drops Ylang Ylang Complete (for emotional balance and relaxation)
  • 2 drops Frankincense (for grounding and spiritual connection)
  • 2 drops Cedarwood Atlas (for its earthy, grounding aroma)

Add oils and water to your diffuser per the manufacturer’s directions.

Bring the Tropics In Room Freshener

Forget chemical-filled air fresheners. Add a few drops of either Ylang Ylang essential oil to cotton pads and place them in your linen closet. Or try this recipe:

Tropical Paradise Spritzer

• • 10 drops of Ylang Ylang Extra 
  • 10 drops Lemon
  • 10 drops Lavender
  • 4 oz spritzer bottle with atomizer cap
  • Distilled water to fill.

Mix. Shake before each use. Spritz high in the air.

Now that you’re a Ylang Ylang benefits expert, which one will you reach for — the sparkling vibrance of Ylang Ylang Extra or the grounding depth of Ylang Ylang Complete? Why not both? Whichever you choose, your senses are in for a treat.

Do you want to deepen your understanding of scent and explore the world of aromatherapy? Download our free guide, Listen to Your Nose: An Introduction to Aromatherapy. And if you’ve enjoyed this post, please share it with your friends on your social media.