YLANG-YLANG - Know your HERBS -

**Admin** Tue Mar 12, 2013 4:44 am

The botanical name for Ylang-Ylang is Cananga adorata.

This evergreen tree has intensely fragrant flowers, followed by green fruits. Ylang-ylang in Tagalog (a Philippine language) means “flower of flowers.” The slim smooth-barked evergreen reaches about 25 m (80 feet) and is covered year-round with drooping, long-stalked, rich-scented flowers that have six narrow, greenish-yellow petals 5 cm (2 inches) long. The alternate, pointed oval leaves have wavy margins and are 13 to 20 cm (5 to 8 inches) long. The clustered oval black fruits hang from long stalks. Leis are made from the blooms, and the perfume is steam-distilled from the flowers.

Ylang-ylang vine (Artabotrys odoratissimus), also in the family Annonaceae, produces masses of small greenish white flowers in spring and clustered, long-stalked, yellow, plumlike, two-seeded fruits in fall. It is a source of commercial perfume. A 2- to 3.5-metre (about 6.5- to 11.5-foot) woody climber, it supports itself by hooks formed at the middle of the flower (and later fruit) stalks. Evergreen glossy leaves and fragrant flowers and fruits make it a valuable trellis or patio vine in areas of warm, moist climate.

The parts of the Ylang-ylang used, are: flowers

Health Benefits of Ylang-ylang

Ylang-ylang is a stimulating, yet relaxing oil with antiseptic and aphrodisiac properties, it elevates the spirit and consoles the heart. Ylang ylang extra has an intense floral, sweet, jasmine-like, almost narcotic sensual, euphoric aroma, perfect for loving massages. It is commonly used to lift depressive states, and address poor circulation. Ylang-ylang helps to keep hair and skin healthy. Add ylang-ylang oil to blends for a sweet, intense floral note.

Preparation Methods & Dosage: Essential Oil