Ylang ylang. What is it? What are the benefits of ylang ylang essential oil for natural hair and uh… how in the world do you pronounce it?! 😀 I’ve been wondering about this oil for a while so before I add to my regimen, I thought I’d do a little research. Here’s what I found.

What is Ylang Ylang?

Ylang ylang- pronounced ee-lahng-ee-lahng- (Cananga Odorata) Oil comes from the big, droopy, yellow flowers of the Cananga tree which is often found in the tropical climates of Indonesia and the Philippines, mostly used for its fragrance. It was regularly used as a natural hair growth remedy in Victorian England and continues to be used today to treat fine and limp hair.

This oil is known to increase sebum (oil) production in skin and scalp which helps to naturally condition the hair and balances oil production in all skin types. Its main use, though, is in promoting healthy hair growth and preventing baldness. When massaged into the scalp, it stimulates hair growth and is used as natural treatment for alopecia (hair loss) and thinning hair.

As you may already know, stress can contribute to hair loss. Interestingly enough, ylang ylang essential oil is often used in aromatherapy to reduce tension and anxiety. Soooo…since the fragrance is so calming to the senses, it’s perfect for relieving the types of mental stress or anxiety that could be contributing to your hair loss in the first place! Makes sense, right?

Here are five practical ways you can use ylang ylang essential oil for hair:

1. Scalp Massage

As we’ve discussed, massaging the scalp already helps stimulate the hair follicles. Adding ylang ylang will make your massage even more effective and promote growth. Use along with a carrier oil all over or where your hair may be thinning like around your edges or temple area.

• 3 Tablespoons of Jojoba Oil
• 4 drops of Ylang Ylang essential oil

Massage into the scalp and wash out after 20-30 minutes.

2. Refreshing Hair Spritz

In an 8 oz spray bottle of warm water, add 4-6 drops of ylang ylang and use to refresh your styles in the morning.

See also How to Use Essential Oils in Your Hair Care Regimen

3. Braid Spray

Having your moisturizer in a spray form makes it much easier to apply to your scalp if you’re rocking protective styles like braids and twists. Add 2-4 tbsps of a carrier oil like coconut or castor oil to the above recipe for added moisturizing benefits.

4. Product Additive

Another simple way to use ylang ylang essential oil for natural hair is to include it in your favorite products. Just add up to 6 drops of ylang ylang to your shampoos and conditioners and reap the sweet benefits of this growth stimulating oil!

5. Hot Oil Treatment

• 3 tbsps olive oil
• 5 drops ylang ylang

Mix the oil in an applicator bottle and heat in a bowl or container of hot water. Apply to the scalp and massage. Place a plastic cap on your head and wrap a towel around it for additional heat for about 30 thirty minutes. Do this weekly or bi-weekly as you see fit.

Always test a small amount on yourself before you begin using it regularly to rule out an allergic reaction. Here are some other things to note before using this oil…

Ylang Ylang Oil Precautions

• Avoid in the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Avoid using if you have low blood pressure.
• Excessive use can cause headaches and nausea.
• Do not use on inflamed skin or skin affected by dermatitis.

Have you used Ylang Ylang in your regimen? How do you use it and what results have you seen?