What Does Ylang-ylang Smell Like? Understanding the Ylang ylang Scent, Perfume and Benefits

Are you curious about the captivating scent of ylang-ylang?

Wondering how it compares to the other fragrances? In this blog, we'll dive into the world of ylang-ylang, exploring its unique aroma, its presence in perfumes, and its amazing benefits. 

Ylang-ylang, pronounced as ee-lang ee-lang, with its tropical and floral notes, offers a delightful combination of fruity and floral fragrances, reminiscent of a sunny paradise. Known for its calming properties, ylang-ylang oil has been used to lower blood pressure and induce a sense of tranquility.

Originating from Indonesia and the Philippines, this star-shaped flower goes through a steam distillation process to extract its precious essential oil, which is a key ingredient in many popular perfumes, including the iconic Chanel No. 5. Join us on this aromatic journey as we uncover the secrets and allure of ylang-ylang's enchanting scent.

What Does Ylang-ylang Smell Like?

A star-shaped flower derived from the Cananga tree, ylang-ylang is known for its exotic, floral fragrance and is found in many popular perfumes (1). Its fragrance is potent, often described as a blend of rose and jasmine, with floral notes reminiscent of tuberose. Whether in essential oil or perfume form, ylang-ylang offers a host of benefits and wellness advantages.

Scent

The ylang-ylang scent is overpowering yet calming, earning its reputation as the "perfume tree." Processing time can determine how potent the fragrance is in essential oil. It can be applied directly onto the skin or inhaled for its therapeutic properties. Ylang-ylang is believed to ease pain, promote relaxation, and even address conditions like dermatitis and eczema.

Blending with Other Oils

Blending ylang-ylang with other essential oils, such as neroli or jojoba, can create a balanced fragrance. Its light and spicy scents make it a versatile note in perfumes. Ylang-ylang's scent profile is reminiscent of jasmine and vanilla, evoking a sense of romance and elegance.

Perfumes

Whether you've heard of ylang ylang or not, exploring its uses in perfumery, aromatherapy, and skincare reveals its multifaceted nature. This exotic flower from Malaysia and Australia holds the potential to enhance your well-being and transport you to a world of sensory delight.

Uses and Benefits of Ylang-ylang Essential Oil in Aromatherapy, Perfumes, Scents, and Colognes

Ylang ylang essential oil, derived from the star-shaped ylang-ylang flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, is highly valued for its uses and benefits in aromatherapy, perfumes, scents, and colognes. Here are some key points to understand its significance:

1. Aromatherapy Benefits

Ylang-ylang is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Inhaling ylang ylang extra, or even the smell of ylang ylang, can help reduce stress, anxiety, and promote a sense of tranquility.

2. Perfume and Scent

The scent of ylang ylang is often used as a popular ingredient in many perfumes where it acts mainly as fragrance notes. Its exotic and floral notes add depth, complexity, and a touch of sensuality to fragrance compositions.

3. Wellness Advantages

Ylang-ylang has been associated with several wellness benefits. It is believed to lower blood pressure, balance emotions, and uplift mood, making it beneficial for overall well-being (2).

4. Versatile Essential Oil

Ylang-ylang essential oil can be used in various ways. It can be diffused, added to bathwater, or used in massage oils to experience its therapeutic effects.

5. Floral and Fruity Aroma

The scent of ylang-ylang is characterized by its floral and fruity aroma, with hints of jasmine and neroli. It offers a unique and captivating fragrance experience.

6. Ingredient in Popular Perfumes

Ylang-ylang is found in many popular perfumes due to its alluring scent profile. Its inclusion adds a touch of exoticism and sophistication to fragrance blends.

7. Aromatherapy Massage

Ylang-ylang essential oil is often used in aromatherapy massage for its ability to relax the mind and body. Its fragrant properties enhance the therapeutic experience.

8. Natural Skincare

Ylang-ylang can be incorporated into skincare products due to its beneficial properties. It helps moisturize the skin, promote a youthful appearance, and can assist with conditions like acne or dryness.

9. Emotional Balance

Ylang-ylang is known to have a harmonizing effect on emotions. It can help soothe feelings of frustration, anger, or sadness, promoting emotional well-being.

10. Exotic and Alluring Scent

The floral scent of ylang-ylang is often described as exotic and alluring. Its captivating aroma has the power to transport you to a tropical paradise, evoking a sense of luxury and indulgence.

In conclusion, ylang-ylang essential oil offers a wide range of uses and benefits in aromatherapy, perfumes, scents, and colognes. Its versatile aroma, wellness advantages, and natural properties make it a valuable ingredient in enhancing well-being and creating captivating fragrances.

DIY Recipes for Natural Ylang Ylang Fragrances

Recipe#1: Ylang Ylang Perfume Oil

Ingredients:

• 10 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil
• 5 drops of essential oil blend of neroli
• 3 drops of Bergamot essential oil
• 1 tablespoon of carrier oil like jojoba oil or sweet almond

Instructions:

1. In a small glass bottle, combine the Ylang Ylang, Neroli, and Bergamot essential oils.

2. Add the carrier oil to the bottle and tightly seal the cap.

3. Gently roll the bottle between your hands to mix the ingredients well.

4. Let the perfume oil blend sit for 24 hours to allow the scents to meld together.

5. Apply a small amount of the perfume oil on your pulse points to really enjoy ylang ylang flower's calming properties. 

Recipe#2: Ylang Ylang Room Spray

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of distilled water
• Three or extra tablespoons of witch hazel
• 10 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil
• 5 drops of Lavender essential oil
• 5 drops of Lemon essential oil

Instructions:

1. In a spray bottle, combine the distilled water and witch hazel.

2. Add a blend of ylang-ylang oil, mixed with Lavender, and Lemon essential oils to the mixture.

3. Screw the spray bottle cap tightly and shake well to blend the ingredients.

4. Use the room spray to freshen up your living space, bedding, or linens with a soothing and aromatic Ylang ylang scent.

Recipe#3: Ylang Ylang Solid Perfume

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of beeswax pellets
• 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil
• 10 drops of your favourite ylang ylang essential oil
• 5 drops of Patchouli essential oil
• Empty lip balm container or small tin

Instructions:

1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax pellets and sweet almond oil together until fully melted.
2. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Add the Ylang Ylang and Patchouli essential oils to the mixture, stirring well.
4. Pour the mixture into an empty lip balm container or small tin before it solidifies.
5. Allow the solid perfume to cool and harden completely.
6. Apply a small amount of the solid perfume onto your pulse points for a convenient and portable Ylang Ylang exotic scent.

How To Use

1. Perfume

Using ylang-ylang essential oil directly onto your pulse points, such as wrists, neck, and behind the ears to constantly feel the light fragrance. You can also create your own Ylang Ylang perfume blend by diluting the essential oil with a carrier oil and applying it to your skin.

2. Aromatherapy

Add a few drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil to a diffuser or oil burner to fill the air with its relaxing and uplifting aroma. Inhale deeply to experience its therapeutic benefits for stress relief, relaxation, and mood enhancement.

3. Bath

Add a few drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil to your bathwater for a luxurious and aromatic bath experience. The scent will help create a calming atmosphere and promote relaxation.

4. Massage

Dilute Ylang Ylang essential oil in a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or jojoba oil, and use it for a soothing and aromatic massage. The oil can help ease any pain, relieve tension, reduce stress, and enhance relaxation.

5. Skincare

Ylang Ylang essential oil has many benefits ranging from beauty to hair care. It can be added to your skincare routine by mixing a few drops with your favorite carrier oil or unscented lotion. Apply it to your skin to enjoy its moisturizing and rejuvenating benefits. However, it's important to do a patch test before using it on your face or sensitive skin areas to ensure there are no adverse reactions.

6. Hair Care

Add a few drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil to your shampoo or conditioner to infuse your hair with its delightful scent and promote healthy-looking hair.

Remember to always follow proper dilution guidelines and consult essential oil safety precautions before using Ylang Ylang or any other essential oil.

Safety Precautions To Take

Before incorporating Ylang Ylang oil into your hair care routine, it's important to keep a few safety precautions in mind:

1. Dilute Properly :

Ylang Ylang oil is highly concentrated and should never be used directly on the scalp or hair. Always dilute it with a suitable carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, before application. This helps prevent any potential skin irritation or sensitivity.

2. Patch Test:

Perform a patch test before using Ylang Ylang oil on your scalp or hair. Apply a small amount of diluted oil to a small area of skin, like the inner forearm, and wait for 24 hours. If any redness, itching, or irritation occurs, refrain from using the oil.

3. Allergic Reactions:

While Ylang Ylang oil is generally considered safe, some individuals may have specific allergies or sensitivities to it. If you have a known allergy to Ylang Ylang or any other essential oils, it's best to avoid using it to prevent adverse reactions.

4. Consult a Professional:

If you have any underlying scalp conditions, allergies, or medical concerns, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a dermatologist before using Ylang Ylang oil on your hair.

5. Pregnancy and Children:

Pregnant women and children should exercise caution when using essential oils, including Ylang Ylang oil. It's recommended to consult a healthcare provider for guidance and to ensure safe usage.

Remember, using essential oils should always be done responsibly and with awareness of your own body's reactions. By following these safety precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of Ylang Ylang oil for your hair without any concerns.

Conclusion

Ylang Ylang is a versatile and captivating scent that offers numerous benefits in aromatherapy, perfumes, and scents. Its exotic and floral fragrance adds a touch of luxury and elegance to any blend or product. Create your own natural Ylang Ylang fragrances with DIY recipes, allowing you to personalize scents to suit your preferences.

Ylang Ylang is found in many popular perfumes, blending well with other floral notes and creating captivating scent profiles. Beyond its delightful aroma, Ylang Ylang has calming properties, promotes relaxation, and may benefit skin conditions. Embrace the power of Ylang Ylang to enhance your well-being, transport you to a world of sensory delight, and evoke feelings of tranquility and allure.