Aromatherapy is considered an excellent healer for various diseases. It has been applied since time immemorial. It is widely used for curing various diseases. In this therapy, the pleasant smell of the oils is used to counteract the bad effects of various diseases. The philosophy behind this healing method is that the pleasant smell has a positive influence on the mind of a patient. Aromatherapy is something I have recently turned my nose up at! The assumption that “scent” has the power to heal has prompted me to research aromas that have a therapeutic effect on the body and mind. During my research, I came across a scent that I think every aromatherapy lover should know. I’m talking about Ylang Ylang – the flower of flowers.
Ylang Ylang, (known as ‘Cananga Odorata’ in the botanical world), is an essential oil extracted from the flowers of the Cananga tree. The tree is native to the tropical rainforests of Indonesia and the Philippines, and is widely cultivated there due to its high demand in perfumeries.
In this article, I will discuss five important health benefits of using the essential oil derived from this herb. Believe me, you’ll be surprised to discover these miraculous qualities of this magical flower as you read on
Promotes relaxation
The herb contains linalool-a naturally occurring terpene alcohol. The compound has a pleasant floral scent with a hint of spiciness, and it is claimed to act as an antidepressant and sedative.
In addition to Linalool, there are many other chemicals present such as Germacrene, Caryophyllene, and Sesquiterpenes, all of which are powerful stress-busters. These chemicals together produce a fragrance with therapeutic tendencies, which can have the following effects:
- It elevates mood
- It increases self-confidence
- It relieves muscle stiffness
- It controls acne
- It relieves nausea and motion sickness
Relieves hypertension
The pharmaceutical industry is full of a plethora of pills and potions to lower blood sugar, but those drugs come with their own set of side effects. In the realm of natural medicine, however, some essential oils work wonders to eliminate the symptoms of high blood pressure. Ylang Ylang is one of those oils that aromatherapists recommend as a panacea for high blood pressure.
Having a diffuser filled with Ylang Ylang oil in your home can help promote an overall sense of well-being, making you feel light and sharp.
Promotes a healthy menstrual cycle
This is something that is debatable, but researchers have gathered evidence on the claim that the scent of Ylang Ylang can promote a happy “menstrual cycle. Aroma therapists have long used ylang ylang to treat PSM (Pre menstrual syndrome) in their patients. Smelling ylang ylang oil during menstruation can relieve some of the physical and emotional symptoms of PSM – those excruciating abdominal cramps, nausea, and mood swings.
Since the aroma is a powerful antidepressant and sedative, inhaling it can help a “damsel in distress” get through her “shark week.
Treats Depression
In the world of alternative medicine, the herb is believed to be a powerful antidepressant. Inhaling Ylang Ylang vapors can provide relief from anxiety, tension, sadness, and chronic depression.
Using a vaporizer to diffuse the scent is a good way to use Ylang Ylang, but there are other ways as well. When diluted, it can be used as a massage oil that can be applied to relieve physical exhaustion, insomnia, nervous tension, and stress.
Improves your sex life
Step into the bedroom of a newlywed Indonesian couple, and you can smell the scent of Ylang Ylang flowers hanging around everywhere. The scent of Ylang Ylang is a powerful aphrodisiac, the mere inhalation of which can create the perfect mood for sex.
The best way to use Ylang Ylang for sexual enrichment is to burn the essential oil in a diffuser in your bedroom. The effect is almost immediate. The intense note of rubber and custard, along with a slight hint of Jasmine and Neroli, causes an immediate increase in “desire” hormones, and therefore helps you to please each other better.