Ylang Ylang Oil Drug Interactions, Uses, Effectiveness, Safety & More

Ylang ylang oil is an essential oil made by steam-distilling the bright yellow flowers of the Cananga odorata tree. This tropical tree grows in parts of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and the Philippines, and on islands such as Madagascar and the Comoros.

The oil has a sweet, floral scent and is a popular ingredient in perfumes, soaps, lotions, and aromatherapy blends. People most often use it as a fragrance and for relaxation, either by breathing in the scent from a diffuser or by applying it to the skin after diluting it in a carrier oil.

Ylang ylang oil contains aromatic compounds such as linalool, benzyl acetate, benzyl benzoate, germacrene, and caryophyllene. These give the oil its scent and are thought to be responsible for its effects.

Researchers believe the pleasant aroma may influence the nervous system through smell, possibly promoting a sense of calm and lowering markers of stress. Laboratory studies have also looked at possible antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. It is important to know that much of this work is based on lab or animal research, and these findings do not prove the oil works the same way in people.

Ylang ylang oil is generally considered safe for aromatherapy and for diluted use on the skin in most healthy adults. Like all essential oils, it is very concentrated and must be diluted in a carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil) before being applied to skin.

Do not swallow ylang ylang oil. Essential oils can be toxic if taken by mouth. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets, and avoid getting it in the eyes.

People with sensitive skin, eczema, or fragrance allergies should be cautious and do a small patch test first. For pregnancy and breastfeeding, there is not enough safety information, so it is best to avoid concentrated use and limit yourself to occasional, well-ventilated aromatherapy only if your doctor agrees. When in doubt, check with your pharmacist or doctor.

The most common side effects are skin reactions, including redness, irritation, or allergic contact dermatitis, especially when the oil is used undiluted. Some people may also find the strong scent causes headache or nausea, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.

Rarely, sensitive individuals may develop a more significant allergic reaction. If you notice a rash, swelling, trouble breathing, or other signs of an allergic reaction, stop using it and seek medical care. Swallowing essential oils can cause serious poisoning and is a medical emergency.

There is no established standard dose for ylang ylang oil, and it is not meant to be taken internally. For aromatherapy, a few drops are typically added to a diffuser or inhaled briefly. For topical use, the oil should always be diluted to a low concentration in a carrier oil.

Because products vary widely in strength, follow the directions on the label and start with the smallest amount. If you are unsure how to use it safely, ask your pharmacist or a qualified aromatherapist.