Native to Southeast Asia, ylang-ylang or ilang-ilang (Cananga odorata Hook Thom) is a tropical tree of the Annonaceae family. The name ylang-ylang comes from the tree name "ílang-ilang" in Tagalog (official language of the Philippines) which means "flower of flowers". Ylang-ylang essential oil, obtained from the distillation of its flowers, appeared in Manila (Philippines) in the 1860s. However, it is in Nosy-Be (Madagascar) and in the Comoros islands that its Large-scale commercial production has developed, where the tree is grown primarily as bushes.

Ylang-ylang essential oil comes from the steam distillation of its flowers. The distillation can last between 12 to 20 hours and is done in stills to extract an essential oil in several fractions corresponding to distinct essential oil qualities: extra superior ylang, extra ylang, and complete distillation ylang.
Extra superior ylang and extra ylang are the most used in perfumery.
Expensive and with a very floral smell, they correspond to the essential oils obtained at the start of distillation.
For aromatherapy, ylang ylang DC, fully distilled, is preferable, because its therapeutic power and skin tolerance are greater.

Hair properties

Its essential oil is renowned for hair care since it promotes hair shine while toning it. It is essential for hair loss, alopecia, dull hair lacking vitality and following chemotherapy.

Anti-inflammatory properties of powerful and prolonged action

It is also found in all types of body care since ylang-ylang is recognized for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties (skin allergies, eczema, psoriasis, urticaria, seborrheic dermatitis, osteoarthritis, rheumatism). An excellent sebum regulator, it is a natural energizer with a powerful exotic floral note.

Antispasmodic properties

Ylang ylang is also indicated for fibromyalgia, muscle pain, abdominal pain, period pain and spasms.