If you're familiar with essential oils, chances are you're familiar with ylang ylang oil. Known for its sweet, floral scent and wide range of therapeutic benefits, ylang ylang oil has become extremely popular in recent years. However, when it comes to ylang ylang, there are actually two main types of oil: ylang ylang complete oil and ylang ylang extra oil. In this article, we'll take a closer look at these two types of oils, exploring their differences and benefits so that you can make an informed choice about which variety is right for you.
What is Ylang Ylang Essential Oil?
Before diving into the differences between ylang ylang complete oil and ylang ylang extra oil, it's important to first understand what ylang ylang oil is. Derived from the flowers of the Cananga odorata tree, which is native to Indonesia, ylang ylang oil is a highly aromatic oil that has been used for centuries for a variety of purposes.
Ylang ylang essential oil is known for its sweet, floral scent and is often used in perfumes and aromatherapy. It is also believed to have therapeutic properties, such as reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation, and improving mood.
In addition to its aromatic and therapeutic uses, ylang ylang oil is also used in skincare and haircare products. It is believed to have moisturizing and nourishing properties that can help improve the appearance and health of skin and hair.
The Origins of Ylang Ylang Oil
The use of ylang ylang oil dates back hundreds of years, and it was traditionally used in Southeast Asia for a variety of purposes including perfuming clothing and as an aphrodisiac. In modern times, ylang ylang oil has gained popularity for its therapeutic benefits, which include stress and anxiety relief, skincare benefits, and haircare benefits.
Ylang ylang oil is extracted from the flowers of the ylang ylang tree, which is native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. The oil is obtained through a process of steam distillation, which involves heating the flowers and collecting the resulting oil. The quality of the oil can vary depending on the time of day the flowers are harvested, with the highest quality oil being obtained from flowers picked in the early morning.
In addition to its therapeutic benefits, ylang ylang oil is also used in the perfume industry for its sweet, floral scent. It is a popular ingredient in many high-end perfumes and is often used as a base note due to its long-lasting fragrance. Ylang ylang oil is also used in aromatherapy, where it is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body.
Differences in Extraction Methods: Complete vs Extra
The main difference between ylang ylang complete oil and ylang ylang extra oil lies in the way they are extracted. Ylang ylang complete oil is obtained through a steam distillation process, while ylang ylang extra oil is obtained through a process called fractionation. Both methods result in an oil that has a sweet, floral scent, but there are differences in their chemical composition and physical properties that make them unique.
Ylang ylang complete oil contains all the components of the ylang ylang flower, including the heavier molecules that are not present in the extra oil. This makes the complete oil more viscous and darker in color. On the other hand, ylang ylang extra oil contains only the lighter molecules, resulting in a lighter color and thinner consistency. The chemical composition of the oils also differs, with the complete oil having a higher percentage of sesquiterpenes, which are known for their calming and grounding properties.
The Distillation Process of Ylang Ylang Complete Oil
Ylang ylang complete oil is obtained through a steam distillation process that involves heating the flowers to release the essential oils. The resulting steam is then condensed, and the oil is separated from the water. This process removes most of the impurities from the oil, resulting in a pure, high-quality end product.
The distillation process of ylang ylang complete oil is a delicate and time-consuming process. The flowers must be harvested at the right time, and the distillation process must be carefully monitored to ensure that the oil is not overheated or over-distilled. Overheating or over-distilling can result in a lower quality oil with a weaker fragrance.
Ylang ylang complete oil is widely used in the perfume industry due to its sweet, floral scent. It is also used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The oil is known for its calming properties and is often used in massage oils and bath products.
The Fractionation Process of Ylang Ylang Extra Oil
Ylang ylang extra oil, on the other hand, is obtained through a process called fractionation. This involves further distilling the ylang ylang complete oil to separate out the different chemical compounds. By doing this, the resulting oil is more concentrated and has a slightly different chemical composition than the complete oil.
The fractionation process of ylang ylang extra oil is a delicate and precise procedure. The oil is heated to a specific temperature and then cooled slowly to allow the different compounds to separate. The first fraction that is collected is the most volatile and has the highest concentration of esters, which give the oil its characteristic floral scent. The subsequent fractions have a lower concentration of esters and a higher concentration of sesquiterpenes, which give the oil its grounding and calming properties. The final fraction is the heaviest and has the lowest concentration of volatile compounds. This fraction is often used in perfumery as a fixative to help the scent last longer.
Chemical Composition and Properties of Ylang Ylang Complete Oil
Ylang ylang complete oil contains a complex mixture of chemical compounds, including sesquiterpenes, germacrene, linalool, and benzyl acetate. These compounds give ylang ylang oil its sweet, floral scent and provide a variety of therapeutic benefits.
Sesquiterpenes are a group of compounds found in ylang ylang complete oil that have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. These compounds can help to reduce inflammation and fight off harmful bacteria in the body.
Germacrene is another compound found in ylang ylang complete oil that has been shown to have anti-tumor properties. This compound may help to prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body.
Chemical Composition and Properties of Ylang Ylang Extra Oil
Ylang ylang extra oil has a slightly different chemical composition than ylang ylang complete oil, as it contains a higher concentration of linalool, germacrene, and other sesquiterpenes. This gives the oil a slightly different aroma and often makes it a preferred choice for perfumers and other industries.
In addition to its unique chemical composition, ylang ylang extra oil also has several therapeutic properties. It is known to have a calming effect on the mind and body, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy and massage. The oil is also believed to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe skin irritations and promote healing. Ylang ylang extra oil is a versatile and beneficial essential oil that is widely used in the beauty, wellness, and fragrance industries.
Aromatherapy Benefits of Ylang Ylang Complete Oil
Ylang ylang complete oil is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. It has a calming effect on the mind and body, and can even help to lower blood pressure. In addition, ylang ylang complete oil can be used to improve sleep quality, decrease tension headaches, and improve overall mood.
Furthermore, ylang ylang complete oil has been found to have aphrodisiac properties, making it a popular choice for couples looking to enhance their romantic experiences. It is also known to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe skin irritations and promote wound healing. Ylang ylang complete oil is a versatile essential oil that can be used in a variety of ways, including in diffusers, massage oils, and bath products.
Aromatherapy Benefits of Ylang Ylang Extra Oil
Ylang ylang extra oil is also commonly used in aromatherapy, and it is particularly valued for its ability to promote emotional balance and stability. The oil's unique chemical composition allows it to have a grounding effect on the emotions, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety, anger, and stress. It is also believed to be useful for enhancing creativity and imagination.
Skincare Benefits of Using Ylang Ylang Oils
Both ylang ylang complete oil and ylang ylang extra oil have a wide range of benefits for the skin. These oils are known to help balance oil production, making them great for those with oily or combination skin. They also have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful for treating acne, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. In addition, ylang ylang oils are believed to promote healthy skin cell growth, making them great for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Furthermore, ylang ylang oils have a soothing and calming effect on the skin, making them great for reducing redness and irritation. They also have a pleasant floral scent, which can help to uplift your mood and reduce stress levels. Ylang ylang oils can be used in a variety of skincare products, such as facial oils, serums, and moisturizers, to provide a range of benefits for the skin. Overall, incorporating ylang ylang oils into your skincare routine can help to improve the health and appearance of your skin.
Haircare Benefits of Using Ylang Ylang Oils
Ylang ylang oils can also be beneficial for the hair. They are believed to stimulate hair growth, reduce dandruff, and improve scalp health. In addition, ylang ylang oils can help to condition and moisturize the hair, leaving it looking and feeling silky and smooth.
Furthermore, ylang ylang oils have a pleasant floral scent that can leave your hair smelling fresh and fragrant. They can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to hair loss and other hair problems. Incorporating ylang ylang oils into your haircare routine can provide a natural and effective way to promote healthy hair and scalp.
How to Use and Apply Both Types of Oils
Ylang ylang oils can be used in a variety of ways, including in aromatherapy, skincare, and haircare products. To use ylang ylang oil for aromatherapy purposes, simply add a few drops to a diffuser or a warm bath. When using ylang ylang oil for skincare or haircare, it's important to mix it with a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil before applying it to the skin or hair.
It's important to note that there are two types of ylang ylang oil: complete and extra. Complete ylang ylang oil is extracted from the flower petals through steam distillation, while extra ylang ylang oil is obtained through a longer distillation process. Extra ylang ylang oil is considered to be of higher quality and is often used in perfumes and high-end skincare products. However, complete ylang ylang oil is still effective and can be used in a variety of ways as well.
Potential Side Effects and Precautions to Take with Both Types of Oils
While ylang ylang oils are generally considered safe for most people, it's important to take some precautions when using them. For example, ylang ylang oil can cause skin irritation in some people, so it's important to do a patch test before using it on a larger area of skin. Additionally, it's important to avoid using ylang ylang oil during pregnancy, as it may stimulate contractions.
On the other hand, lavender oil is also generally safe for most people, but it's important to note that it can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. It's also important to avoid using lavender oil on open wounds or burns, as it may cause further irritation. Additionally, lavender oil should not be ingested, as it can be toxic if consumed in large amounts.
Which Type is Right for You? Comparing the Two Varieties.
When it comes to choosing between ylang ylang complete oil and ylang ylang extra oil, there are a few key factors to consider. If you're using the oil for skincare or haircare purposes, you may prefer ylang ylang complete oil due to its slightly lower cost and wider availability. However, if you're using the oil for aromatherapy or for use in perfumes, you may prefer ylang ylang extra oil for its richer, more complex aroma.
It's important to note that both ylang ylang complete oil and ylang ylang extra oil have similar therapeutic properties, such as their ability to promote relaxation and reduce stress. However, ylang ylang extra oil is considered to be more potent and may require a smaller amount for the same effect. Additionally, ylang ylang complete oil is often used in natural insect repellents due to its strong scent, while ylang ylang extra oil is commonly used in high-end perfumes and luxury skincare products. Ultimately, the choice between the two varieties depends on your specific needs and intended use.
Conclusion: Making the Best Choice for Your Needs
Whether you choose ylang ylang complete oil or ylang ylang extra oil, both varieties offer a wide range of therapeutic benefits and can be used in a variety of ways. It's important to choose the type that's right for your needs, based on the intended use and your own personal preferences. By understanding the unique properties and benefits of each type of ylang ylang oil, you can make a more informed choice and get the most out of this versatile essential oil.
When selecting ylang ylang oil, it's important to consider the quality of the oil. Look for oils that are pure and free from additives or synthetic fragrances. Additionally, consider the source of the oil and choose oils that are sustainably sourced and ethically produced.
It's also important to note that ylang ylang oil should be used with caution, as it can cause skin irritation in some individuals. Always dilute the oil before use and perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it more widely.
