Essential Oil Ylang ylang/ cananga odorata var.genuine
Family anonaceae
This tropical tree that can reach heights of up to 30m(100ft.) is native to tropical Asia. Like the weeping willow its branches are gracefully arched with round shiny leaves and abundant yellow, mauve or pink intensely fragrant flowers. It is the yellow flowers that are considered the best for the essential oil.
Essential Oil Extraction is through steam distillation of the flowers. Ylang ylang’ extra’ is considered the ‘top’ grade from the first distillation. Grades 1,2 and 3 are further successive distillations. A ‘concrete’ and ‘absolute’ are also produced through solvent extraction.
Colour: pale yellow liquid.
Aroma: intensely sweet, floral
Essential Oils Possible Uses: depression, frigidity, insomnia, PMS, palpitations, nervous tension and stress related conditions, oily skin, acne.
Blends: bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, jasmine, rosewood, rose, tuberose, vetiver, sandalwood
Caution: generally non-toxic, non-irritant. Use in moderation as can cause nausea and headaches.