Cananga Odorata: What it is, Use, and More!

Cananga Odorata, also known as ylang-ylang, is an evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, adorned with small, fragrant leaves and short-lived yet beautiful white flowers. The tree is renowned for its aromatic blossoms, which are the source of an essential oil that has made its mark in the world of perfumery and aromatherapy. Extracted from the yellow flowers, this oil boasts a complex aroma that is spicy and woody with sweet overtones, reminiscent of the harmonious blend of cinnamon and vanilla.

In addition to its aromatic allure, ylang-ylang plays a significant role in traditional medicine, known for its mood-enhancing and anxiety-reducing properties. However, the extraction process, coupled with environmental factors, influences the cost of the oil, making it a point of consideration for consumers. Despite this, the market is rich with a variety of products that cater to a spectrum of budgets, ensuring that the enchanting experience of ylang-ylang is accessible to many.

In the forthcoming content, we will delve into the origins, oil extraction processes, and diverse uses of Cananga Odorata. We aim to equip readers with insightful information and practical tips on selecting quality ylang-ylang products, offering a balanced perspective that weighs both the intrinsic value and cost associated with this aromatic gem.

Properties of Cananga Odorata

1. Aromatic Properties

Ylang-ylang’s essential oil, derived from its flowers, is noted for its distinct floral and slightly fruity aroma, making it a sought-after ingredient in perfumery and aromatherapy (Source).

2. Medicinal Benefits

The oil is also recognized in traditional medicine for enhancing mood and reducing anxiety (Source).

3. Physical Characteristics

Cananga odorata is an evergreen tree with pointed oval leaves and flowers that transition from lime-green to golden yellow as they mature (Source).

4. Environmental Adaptability

The tree thrives in humid tropics, adapts to various soil types, and is resilient to temporary waterlogged conditions and short drought periods (Source).

5. Oil Extraction and Uses

The oil extraction process is influenced by environmental conditions, and the market provides ylang-ylang products for various budgets (Source).

6. Timber Uses

The tree’s timber is used in construction and furniture making (Source).

What’s in a Name?

The name Cananga is Latin and means “fragrant.” Dillenius named it after the type of tree because he noticed that the plant was similar to a cinnamon tree.

Cananga Odorata: Husbandry, Cultivation, and Uses

Husbandry and Cultivation

Environmental Preferences: Ylang-ylang thrives in humid lowland tropics, favoring rich volcanic or sandy soils and temperatures of 18-28°C. It can also endure waterlogged conditions temporarily (Agroforestry).

Propagation: The tree is typically propagated by seeds sourced from ripe fruits available year-round. Cuttings and direct field seeding are alternative methods (Agroforestry).

Cultivation Techniques: Ylang-ylang is found in home gardens and is suitable for intercropping due to its shade tolerance. It’s not considered invasive despite its adaptability (Agroforestry).

Uses

Essential Oil: The oil, extracted from the tree’s yellow flowers, is noted in perfumery and aromatherapy for its calming effects, aiding in stress relief and relaxation (University of Wisconsin).

Medicinal Applications: Ylang-ylang is recognized for mood enhancement and anxiety reduction. It’s linked to antibacterial and cytotoxic compounds, underscoring its medicinal value (Fitoterapia).

Timber Uses: The tree’s timber serves in construction and furniture making. Its aesthetic and fragrant appeal also makes it a favorite in home gardens (Agroforestry).

Growing ylang ylang

Growing ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata) requires specific climate and soil conditions. It flourishes in tropical and subtropical climates, particularly in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands (Agroforestry, Page 4).

The tree is adaptable to various soil types, including light and medium-textured soils, and can even tolerate temporary waterlogging (Agroforestry, Page 4).

Ylang-ylang grows quickly, often exceeding 5 meters per year in its early stages, and can reach up to 40 meters in height (Agroforestry, Page 1).

The tree’s flowers, which turn from greenish-yellow to deep yellow or yellow-brown, are associated with rainy months and are a primary source for essential oil extraction (Agroforestry, Page 5).

Propagation is typically achieved through seeds, available from the tree’s year-round fruiting, but cuttings and direct seeding are also viable (Agroforestry, Page 6).

Ylang-ylang can tolerate drought, prefers full sunlight, and can withstand temporary waterlogging (Agroforestry, Page 5).

Information on pests and diseases is limited, but stem borers and flower-eating beetles have been noted (Agroforestry, Page 6).

Harvesting focuses on the flowers, with a tree yielding 20-100 kg per year, used primarily for essential oil extraction (Agroforestry, Page 1).

What Scents Are in Cananga Odorata?

Cananga Odorata, commonly known as ylang-ylang, is celebrated for its complex and multifaceted aroma. The scent profile of this tropical tree’s flowers is a harmonious blend of various notes, making it a sought-after ingredient in perfumery and aromatherapy.

1. Floral and Sweet

The predominant scent of Cananga Odorata is floral and sweet. The flowers yield an essential oil that is rich and intoxicating, with a sweetness that is often associated with romantic and feminine fragrances (Source).

2. Fruity and Spicy

In addition to its floral notes, ylang-ylang’s aroma carries subtle hints of fruit and spice. This complexity adds depth to the fragrance, making it a versatile ingredient that complements a variety of other scents (Source).

3. Woody and Balsamic

There is also a woody and balsamic undertone to ylang-ylang’s scent. This base note anchors the fragrance, providing a grounding effect that balances the more ethereal floral and fruity notes (Source).

Citations

• ScienceDirect, “Cananga Odorata,” Available online.
• NCBI, “Antibacterial and cytotoxic compounds from Cananga odorata,” Available online.
• Agroforestry, “Cananga Odorata (ylang-ylang),” Available online.

Each source provides a glimpse into the intricate aroma of Cananga Odorata, painting a picture of a scent that is as complex as it is captivating. The combination of floral, fruity, spicy, woody, and balsamic notes makes ylang-ylang a unique and cherished element in the world of fragrances.

Health Benefits of Cananga Odorata

Ylang-ylang essential oil, extracted from Cananga Odorata, offers multiple health benefits backed by various studies.

1. Stress and Anxiety Reduction

The oil is a common choice in aromatherapy for its effectiveness in reducing stress and anxiety, attributed to its calming properties (EFSA Journal).

2. Mood Enhancement

Ylang-ylang is known to improve mood and combat feelings of sadness, a benefit linked to its aromatic properties (Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Cananga odorata).

3. Antibacterial Properties

The oil has demonstrated antibacterial properties, effective in treating wounds and preventing infections (Fitoterapia).

4. Skin Health

Ylang-ylang oil supports skin health by maintaining moisture and reducing irritation, attributed to its nourishing and antibacterial properties (PMC).

5. Blood Pressure Regulation

The oil is also associated with cardiovascular health, particularly in regulating blood pressure levels (Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Cananga odorata).

How to use ylang ylang oil for blood pressure

Cananga odorata for Skin infections or disorders

Ylang-ylang essential oil is noted for its antibacterial properties, effective in treating wounds and preventing infections (PMC). It’s a component in skincare products, aiding in moisture retention and reducing skin irritation. A study in Fitoterapia confirms its effectiveness against various bacterial strains, underscoring its role in managing skin infections.

Heart disease

Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata) may benefit heart health by reducing stress and anxiety and regulating blood pressure (EFSA Journal, Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Cananga odorata). However, more research is needed to confirm these effects. Consult a healthcare professional before using ylang-ylang for heart conditions.

Stress and fatigue

Ylang-ylang essential oil is recognized for alleviating stress and fatigue. Used in aromatherapy, it helps reduce anxiety and improves mood, with its sedative effect aiding sleep quality (EFSA Journal).

Nervous system disorders

Ylang-ylang oil is noted for its calming properties, used in aromatherapy to alleviate anxiety, stress, and depression, conditions linked to the nervous system.

Evidence:

1. Anxiety and Stress Reduction: The oil aids in reducing anxiety and stress (EFSA Journal).
2. Mood Enhancement: It is effective in uplifting mood and combating depression (Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Cananga odorata).
3. Sedative Effects: Ylang-ylang oil also acts as a sedative, promoting relaxation and better sleep (PMC).

Application:

In aromatherapy, the oil is either inhaled or applied topically to achieve nervous system benefits. Its constituents like linalool and caryophyllene offer relaxation and mood-enhancing effects.

Mood enhancer

Ylang-ylang oil, derived from Cananga odorata, is recognized for mood enhancement. It’s used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety, attributed to its aromatic properties.

The review article “Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Bioactivities of Cananga odorata (Ylang-Ylang)” by Loh Teng Hern Tan et al. supports this claim, although specific findings are not detailed.

Additionally, “Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Cananga odorata” confirms the oil’s role in traditional medicine for improving mood.

Selecting a Product

Choosing a Cananga odorata product involves evaluating its purity, origin, extraction method, and more. Here’s a streamlined guide:

1. Purity

• Action: Choose 100% pure products, checking labels for confirmation.
• Reason: Ensures undiluted benefits.

2. Origin

• Action: Verify the geographical source, focusing on renowned regions.
• Reason: Regional factors influence quality.

3. Extraction

• Action: Prefer steam distillation.
• Reason: It retains essential compounds effectively.

4. Grade

• Action: Opt for therapeutic grade, checking composition.
• Reason: Ensures health benefits.

5. Packaging

• Action: Look for dark-colored glass bottles.
• Reason: Protects oil from light degradation.

6. Price

• Action: Be cautious of significantly low prices.
• Reason: Indicates potential quality compromise.

7. Reviews

• Action: Read feedback and assess brand reputation.
• Reason: Indicates quality and reliability.

8. Certifications

• Action: Seek regulatory certifications.
• Reason: Assures quality and purity.

Benefits

Ylang-ylang oil is valued in aromatherapy for stress relief and mood enhancement, supported by traditional and scientific evidence. Its aroma promotes relaxation and well-being.

How To Use Cananga Odorata

Using Cananga odorata, or ylang-ylang, involves several methods:

1. Aromatherapy:

• Method: Add ylang-ylang oil to a diffuser or inhale directly.
• Benefits: Reduces stress and anxiety, promotes relaxation.

2. Topical Application:

• Method: Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to the skin after a patch test.
• Benefits: Improves skin health and provides a calming effect.

3. Bath:

• Method: Add oil to a warm bath.
• Benefits: Aids relaxation and nourishes skin.

4. Hair Care:

• Method: Mix with shampoo or conditioner, or apply with a carrier oil to the scalp and hair.
• Benefits: Strengthens hair and promotes scalp health.

5. Massage:

• Method: Combine with a carrier oil for massage.
• Benefits: Eases muscle tension and improves skin health.

6. Respiratory Benefits:

• Method: Add to hot water for steam inhalation.
• Benefits: Clears respiratory passages and relaxes.

Precautions:

• Follow recommended dosages.
• Conduct a patch test for allergies.
• Consult a professional if pregnant, nursing, or having health issues.

Ylang-ylang offers stress relief, mood enhancement, and well-being, supported by traditional uses and studies. Use high-quality products and follow guidelines for optimal benefits.

Cananga odorata medicinal uses

Cananga odorata, or ylang-ylang, has various medicinal uses supported by traditional practices and research.

1. Stress and Anxiety Reduction:
   • Description: Ylang-ylang essential oil is used in aromatherapy to alleviate stress and anxiety.
   • Evidence: The oil’s floral aroma contributes to a calming atmosphere.
   • Source: EFSA Journal.
2. Mood Enhancement:
   • Description: Ylang-ylang is known to uplift spirits and alleviate depression.
   • Evidence: Its use in aromatherapy is backed by traditional medicinal applications.
   • Source: “Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Cananga odorata.”
3. Antibacterial Properties:
   • Description: The essential oil is effective against bacterial infections.
   • Evidence: Its efficacy is proven against various bacterial strains.
   • Source: Fitoterapia journal.
4. Skin Health:
   • Description: Ylang-ylang oil aids in skin moisture preservation and reduces irritation.
   • Evidence: Its antibacterial properties are validated scientifically.
   • Source: Articles on PMC.
5. Blood Pressure Regulation:
   • Description: The oil is indicated for natural blood pressure management.
   • Evidence: Supported by traditional medicine and some scientific studies.
   • Source: “Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Cananga odorata.”

Each use is backed by a combination of traditional knowledge and modern research, underscoring Cananga odorata’s medicinal value. Adherence to usage guidelines and precautions is essential for safety.

Cananga odorata skin benefits

Ylang-ylang oil, derived from Cananga odorata, is valued for its skin benefits, substantiated by traditional and some scientific evidence.

1. Moisturization:

• Ylang-ylang oil promotes skin hydration and is a common ingredient in skincare products.
• Source: Traditional uses.

2. Antibacterial Properties:

• The oil combats bacterial infections and reduces skin irritation.
• Evidence: A Fitoterapia study confirmed its effectiveness against various bacterial strains.
• Source: Fitoterapia.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

• Ylang-ylang soothes irritated skin.
• Source: Anecdotal and traditional accounts.

4. Skin Health Improvement:

• The oil enhances skin texture and tone.
• Source: “Traditional and Medicinal Uses of Cananga odorata,”.

5. Sebum Regulation:

• Balances sebum production for both dry and oily skin.
• Source: Traditional and aromatherapy practices.

Each benefit is rooted in the oil’s unique properties, making it a versatile addition to skincare routines.

Main chemical components of Cananga Odorata leaf oil

Cananga odorata leaf oil contains several chemical components, as evidenced by a study published in the Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants (DOI: 10.1080/0972060X.2021.1957023) authored by A. Verma, R. Prasad, A. K. Mishra, and A. K. Singh.

1. Sesquiterpenes:

• Evidence: Identified as prominent components in the leaf oil, contributing to its aroma and therapeutic properties.
• Source: Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants (DOI: 10.1080/0972060X.2021.1957023).

2. Germacrene-D:

• Evidence: A significant sesquiterpene in the leaf oil, associated with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
• Source: Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants (DOI: 10.1080/0972060X.2021.1957023).

3. β-Caryophyllene:

• Evidence: Known for its spicy aroma and potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and anxiety-reducing properties.
• Source: Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants (DOI: 10.1080/0972060X.2021.1957023).

4. α-Humulene:

• Evidence: Contributes to the oil’s aroma and has potential anti-inflammatory and appetite suppressant properties.
• Source: Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants (DOI: 10.1080/0972060X.2021.1957023).

5. Other Components:

• Evidence: The leaf oil contains additional compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties.
• Source: Journal of Essential Oil Bearing Plants (DOI: 10.1080/0972060X.2021.1957023).

These components are integral to the oil’s aroma, flavor, and therapeutic properties, providing a basis for its applications in aromatherapy, perfumery, and traditional medicine.

Mohokoi flower

The Mohokoi flower, or Cananga odorata, is native to Asia and the Pacific Islands. It’s characterized by its yellow hue, star-shaped form, and intense aroma. The flower blooms year-round in tropical climates and well-drained soils.

Appearance:

• Color: Mohokoi is yellow, with the intensity increasing as the flower ages.
• Shape: Star-shaped with long, narrow petals.
• Size: Each blossom is several inches in diameter.

Fragrance:

• Aroma: The flower emits a sweet, floral scent with hints of fruit and spices, contributing to its use in perfumery.
• Use in Perfumery: Mohokoi’s essential oil is a common ingredient in luxury perfumes due to its rich aroma.

Blooming:

• Blooming Period: The tree blooms year-round, with flowers often harvested early in the morning for oil extraction.
• Climate: It thrives in tropical climates and fertile soils.

Essential Oil:

• Extraction: The oil is obtained through steam distillation, ensuring the preservation of its aromatic compounds.
• Properties: Known for alleviating stress, improving mood, and promoting relaxation.

Cultural Significance:

• Traditional Names: Known as Mohokoi in Tonga, it has various names in different regions.
• Applications: Used in traditional medicine for its therapeutic benefits.

FAQs

Where does ylang ylang come from?

Ylang-ylang, or Cananga odorata, is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, particularly Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. It grows in tropical climates with abundant rainfall and humidity. The tree is cultivated for its flowers, which are harvested for essential oil extraction. The oil is graded based on the distillation duration, with “extra” being the highest quality.

Historically, ylang-ylang has diverse uses, including traditional medicine and cultural celebrations. In the Philippines, the flowers adorn festivals.

Can ylang ylang be ingested?

Ylang-ylang oil can be ingested in regulated amounts as a food flavoring agent. Toxicological data from sources confirm its safety when used within specified limits, with concentration and quantity being strictly regulated.

Final Thoughts on Cananga Odorata

We have highlighted Cananga Odorata (ylang-ylang) for its calming aroma and health benefits. Precautions are necessary due to its slight toxicity, including using small amounts and wearing gloves. The oil, characterized by its spicy, woody aroma with sweet overtones, is noted for boosting immunity, easing respiratory issues, reducing stress, and enhancing mood. It can be applied in various ways, including aromatherapy and topical applications. Quality and purity are crucial when choosing a Cananga Odorata product.