Ylang Ylang - cananga odorata

Feeling overwhelmed?  Stressed out?  Blood pressure too high?   

These are signs of heat.  So what can you do to cool yourself down -- to regain a sense of calm  -- to lower your blood pressure?  

One thing you can do is take some deep breaths of a blend that contains Ylang Ylang essential oil.  Ylang Ylang (pronounced eee lang eee lang) is a cooling, calming oil with a strong floral aroma.  Scientific studies have demonstrated its ability to lower the heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure!  (I add it to my deodorant and chest rub with good effect.)  While Ylang Ylang does have sedative properties, it is an uplifting oil, so it can help raise you up out of frustration or the doldrums.  

Ylang Ylang does more than lift your spirits and calm your stress.  It's also analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and skin-healing.  

I mentioned above the strong floral aroma -- it's the reason why very small quantities of Ylang Ylang are needed in a blend.  For topical use, Tisserand recommends a maximum dilution of 0.8%.  I find that 1 - 2 drops per ounce of carrier oil is plenty and usually keep it to 1/3 or less of the oils in my inhalation blends.  Too much Ylang Ylang in a blend may cause headache or nausea. (If you experience this, go smell fresh coffee grounds for quick relief).  

Though this oil is skin-healing, it can be skin sensitizing or irritating for those with sensitive skin.  Do not use this oil on dermatitis, damaged, or diseased skin.  If your skin reacts easily to products, I recommend doing a patch test on the inside of your wrist first.

Next time you need to chill out, or want to bring down your blood pressure, or even be able to relax enough to get a good night's sleep, Ylang Ylang will be ready to come to the rescue!