Ylang Ylang Flower Oil Extract
Also known as: Ylang ylang, Cananga oil, Ylang ylang flower oil extract, Cananga odorata
Overview
Ylang ylang flower oil extract, derived from the flowers of *Cananga odorata* through steam distillation, is a widely utilized essential oil in the fragrance industry and aromatherapy. It is traditionally employed for its potential to alleviate anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure, and for its sedative properties. The oil's therapeutic effects are attributed to a rich composition of bioactive compounds, including monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and phenylpropanoids like benzyl benzoate and farnesyl acetate. While research on ylang ylang oil is ongoing, with several clinical trials and systematic reviews exploring its impact on mood, anxiety, and blood pressure, the overall quality of evidence varies, and many studies are limited by methodological constraints. It is primarily used topically or through inhalation.
Benefits
Ylang ylang flower oil extract has shown potential benefits across several areas, though the strength of evidence varies. For anxiety reduction, a systematic review and network meta-analysis indicated that essential oils, including ylang ylang, can decrease both state and trait anxiety. However, the overall quality of this evidence was low due to high risk of bias and heterogeneity among studies, suggesting more rigorous research is needed. In terms of blood pressure lowering, controlled trials have demonstrated that ylang ylang oil, when used in aromatherapy or massage, can significantly reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in healthy adults. These studies reported statistically significant reductions (p-values <0.05). Traditional uses and some clinical observations also support ylang ylang's calming and sedative effects, which may contribute to mood improvement and stress reduction. While some in vitro studies suggest antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties, the clinical relevance of these findings has yet to be established through human trials.
How it works
The anxiolytic and hypotensive effects of ylang ylang flower oil extract are believed to be mediated through its influence on the central nervous system. When inhaled or absorbed topically, its volatile compounds interact with the autonomic nervous system, potentially modulating neurotransmitter activity. This interaction can lead to a rebalancing of the autonomic nervous system, contributing to reduced anxiety and lower blood pressure. Key molecular components such as benzyl benzoate and methyl isoeugenol are thought to contribute to its various bioactivities, including potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. The volatile compounds are rapidly absorbed into the systemic circulation primarily via inhalation and dermal routes, allowing them to exert their effects throughout the body.
Side effects
Ylang ylang flower oil extract is generally considered safe when used in aromatherapy or topical applications at recommended concentrations. Adverse effects are rare but can include skin irritation or allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or known allergies to essential oils. It is crucial to perform a patch test before widespread topical application. While no major drug interactions or contraindications have been firmly established, caution is advised for individuals with pre-existing skin conditions or known sensitivities. There is limited safety data available regarding its use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and therefore, it should be used with caution or avoided in these populations. Undiluted application to the skin should always be avoided to minimize the risk of irritation.
Dosage
Clinical studies investigating ylang ylang flower oil extract typically involve inhalation exposure for 5-10 minutes or topical application of diluted oil. For topical use, a common approach is a 20% solution (e.g., 1 ml of ylang ylang oil diluted in 4 ml of carrier oil) applied during massage. Effective doses for blood pressure reduction have been observed with 5-minute inhalation or massage sessions, performed twice daily over several days. While there is no established maximum safe dose, standard aromatherapy practice emphasizes dilution to prevent skin irritation. It is generally recommended to dilute essential oils to a concentration of 1-5% for topical application. Always start with the lowest effective dose and monitor for any adverse reactions.
FAQs
Is ylang ylang oil effective for anxiety?
Evidence suggests potential benefits for reducing anxiety, but more high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm efficacy and determine optimal dosing and administration methods.
Can it lower blood pressure?
Yes, some randomized controlled trials have shown significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure with aromatherapy or massage using ylang ylang oil in healthy adults.
Is it safe for daily use?
Generally, yes, when used diluted and as directed. However, avoid undiluted application on the skin and monitor for any signs of allergic reactions or irritation.
How quickly do effects appear?
Some effects on anxiety and blood pressure may be observed after a few sessions or days of use. However, sustained or chronic benefits require further scientific investigation.
Are there any drug interactions?
No major drug interactions have been firmly established, but individuals on medication should consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if they have underlying health conditions.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2023.1144404/full – This systematic review and network meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of essential oils, including ylang ylang, for anxiety treatment. It concluded that essential oils can reduce anxiety scores, but the overall quality of evidence was low due to high risk of bias and heterogeneity across the included studies, highlighting the need for more rigorous research.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4534619/ – This narrative review summarizes the phytochemistry and bioactivities of *Cananga odorata*. It identified multiple bioactive compounds within ylang ylang oil and discussed their potential antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anxiolytic properties, though much of the evidence presented was preclinical.
- https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1013&context=nursing-publications – This source refers to randomized controlled trials by Hongratanaworakit (2006 and 2007) which investigated the effects of ylang ylang aromatherapy on blood pressure. These studies, involving 20-40 healthy adults, reported significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure after 5-minute sessions over several days, despite their small sample sizes and short duration.
Recommended Articles
Herbal Boosters & COVID-19 Antivirals: Safe Mix?
Herbal supplements may interact with COVID-19 antivirals, requiring careful consideration and further research.
Top Immune Support Ingredients: What Works?
Vitamin D, zinc, and echinacea are key ingredients in immune support supplements, backed by scientific evidence.
Top Anti-Inflammatory Supplement Ingredients
Curcumin, omega-3 fatty acids, CBD, and Vitamin D are proven to effectively reduce chronic inflammation.
Best Supplements for Cortisol Reduction: A Scientific Guide
Adaptogens like Ashwagandha and Rhodiola, along with Phosphatidylserine, are effective in reducing cortisol levels, supported by scientific studies.