Ylang-ylang is a must-have ingredient in perfumery thanks to its unique and wonderful scent. Obtained from the distillation of its flowers, its essential oil is present in many famous perfumes.
In addition, Ylang-ylang has many therapeutic properties, making its flower a symbol of beauty and well-being.
What is Ylang-ylang?
Ylang-ylang, botanically known as Cananga odorata, is a plant in the Anonaceae family.
In the wild, this tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and grows several meters (2 to 5 m) per year in early growth.
However, to facilitate the harvest of flowers, it will be pruned to 2-3 meters high, and the flexible branches will be bent. This severe pruning, however, allows this tree to produce even more flowers.
Flowering occurs throughout the year. The flowers are initially white, then green. They are then harvested in spring, when they are bright yellow, their olfactory maturity being at its peak.
There are several trees of this species, but the one used for harvesting is distinguished by its small, very fragrant flowers, generally yellow or pink with a red heart.
What is the origin of Ylang-Ylang?
Ylang-Ylang is native to the humid tropical areas of Southeast Asia.
In the Moluccas archipelago, in eastern Indonesia, where the name of this plant means “Flower of flowers”, and in the Philippines where the Malaysian botanical name of the tree comes from: Kananga.
It is also found in India and Malaysia.
It was subsequently imported to the Pacific islands ( Polynesia , New Caledonia , etc.), Australia, Thailand, Vietnam, as well as the islands of the Indian Ocean (Madagascar, Reunion, Mauritius, Comoros, etc.).
The largest production comes from the island of Anjouan in the southeast of the Comoros, the island of Nosy Bé in Madagascar, and Mayotte.
Ripe ylang-ylang flower.
The Ylang-ylang harvest.
Only mature flowers are harvested, as they contain more aromatic molecules.
The flowers are picked by hand at sunrise, from dawn until 9 a.m., as this is when the flower is most fragrant.
Ylang-ylang essence is obtained by distillation. This is an extraction process used in perfumery that involves capturing the essential oil from plants using water vapor.
On the same day as harvesting, the flower is steam distilled in stills to obtain its essential oil. Distillation of the fresh flower lasts between 12 and 24 hours.
The essence is collected in several “fractions”, the best being in the first two hours, because it is denser, richer and more fragrant.
The essential oils from the following fractions, Extra-superior and Extra-normal as well as the First , are intended for luxury perfumery, the Second and Third fractions being intended for cosmetic products, soaps or detergents, and finally the Complete which is a mixture of each fraction used for aromatherapy.
It will take approximately 50 kg of flowers to produce 1 kg of essence.
What does Ylang-ylang smell like?
Ylang-ylang has a powerful and sensual scent. Its floral and solar fragrance evokes exoticism and is reminiscent of a blend of jasmine and monoi.
Its captivating and hypnotic notes have a sweet and creamy aspect a bit like coconut, spicy , like carnation or clove, as well as an animal side, and even a little narcotic and “ medicinal ”, which depending on how it is worked, can very well be attenuated.
In the fragrance Suite 1209 , Ylang -ylang was used for its many aspects that fit wonderfully well with the storyline of the music video “ Who is it ” by Michael Jackson .
In a floral bouquet of white flowers, but also to recreate the features of the female character , sensual, with a creamy touch reminiscent of her Chanel suit.
It also helped to replicate the solar aspect of the “ Golden Hour ” by using a touch of coconut to soften the inherent leathery quality of the Ylang-ylang to create a sumptuous and luminous opening accord. This touch gives a slightly creamy texture, which further pairs very well with the vanilla .
Its medicinal, banana - like facets have been smoothed out to allow its more voluptuous character to really shine.
Suite 1209, extrait de parfum with a heart of Ylang-ylang.
What are the properties of ylang-ylang?
Ylang-ylang essential oil is also used for its therapeutic properties and its many virtues.
In aromatherapy, this essential oil is used pure or mixed with vegetable oils, creams, or in synergy for its calming and relaxing, anti-stress, and anti-pain action.
Ylang-ylang is also used in cosmetic treatments, particularly to moisturize, nourish and beautify the skin and hair, as well as to treat acne thanks to its sebum-regulating action.
It is also highly valued for its aphrodisiac properties.
As you will have understood, Ylang-ylang is an exceptional flower.
Its incredible smell multi-faceted will charm you and transport you to a world of relaxation and well-being, and its many beneficial properties are a real treasure for the skin.
Photo credit (cover) - Joko_Narimo - Pixabay
Photo credit (Ylang-ylang flower) - Wirestock