The Blossom of Balance: Ylang Ylang
Growing & Harvesting: Rooted in the Balance of the Equator
Ylang Ylang thrives in equatorial regions—places like the Philippines, Indonesia, Madagascar, and Ecuador. These locations share something unique: their proximity to the equator. With equal day and night, warm temperatures, and steady humidity, the equator imparts a gentle constancy to the environment. This creates the perfect conditions for a tree like Ylang Ylang—whose very essence reflects balance, calm, and wholeness.
Our sourcing partners cultivate Ylang Ylang in Ecuador, where the mineral-rich soil and tropical air allow the trees to flourish. Remarkably, they begin to bloom within just two years, producing fragrant yellow blossoms that open during the early morning hours, ready to be harvested with care and intention.
Harvesting is done by hand in the early morning hours when the blooms are most aromatic. In many sourcing locations, it is primarily women who perform this careful harvest—an intentional choice. Anecdotal observations suggest that when handled with the gentleness and intuitive care often associated with feminine energy, the resulting oil retains a more harmonious balance of its therapeutic compounds. The flowers are steam-distilled in fractional stages over many hours. The early fractions are delicate and floral, while later ones are richer and heavier.
Historical & Cultural Echoes
Ylang Ylang’s name comes from the Tagalog word "ilang-ilang," meaning wilderness or rare. In Southeast Asia, the petals were traditionally scattered over the beds of newlyweds to promote calm, connection, and blessing. Local healers used the flowers in skin salves and calming infusions, recognizing its ability to bring the body back to a balanced state.
Why Ylang Ylang Supports Hormonal & Emotional Harmony
Ylang Ylang is well-known for calming the nervous system, easing stress, and creating an emotionally supportive environment. It has a natural affinity for:
Supporting balanced hormone signals, especially in women
Easing tension related to cycles or transitions
Relaxing vascular tension and promoting healthy circulation
This floral oil is also an antispasmodic, making it helpful for soothing cramps and restlessness during hormonal shifts. When used regularly, it can help support a feeling of steady emotional grounding.
Additional Benefits & Uses
For Skin and Hair
Ylang Ylang helps balance sebum levels—making it a favorite for both dry and oily skin. It’s also used in hair care for scalp health and shine.
Emotional and Nervous System Support
Its warm, floral scent naturally encourages the release of tension. It’s a go-to for deep breathing rituals, massage oils, and before-bed blends.
For Atmosphere and Romance
Long regarded as an oil of intimacy, Ylang Ylang’s lush aroma fosters connection and sets a peaceful tone for the senses.
Blending Notes
Ylang Ylang blends beautifully with citrus, woodsy oils, vanilla, and spice. It rounds out bright or sharp oils and adds a soft floral foundation.
Notes on Application
Ylang Ylang has a beautifully balancing nature that may support the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure and ease tension. As with any botanical, it’s wise to tune into your body’s response and adjust accordingly. Some individuals may find its calming properties especially potent. Everything we offer is thoughtfully pre-diluted, making it easy to enjoy the benefits without guesswork or concern.
Our apothecary blends featuring Ylang Ylang are designed to deliver its benefits in a grounded, balanced way—complemented by other therapeutic oils and mineral-rich carriers.
Experience some of our favorite Salt & Light creations that feature Ylang Ylang—like the Balance, Happy, and Sleep Rollers. These thoughtfully blended rollers offer daily support for emotional calm, uplifted mood, and restful sleep—grounded in the gentle power of this treasured floral oil.
