WHAT IS YLANG-YLANG ESSENTIAL OIL?

WHAT IS YLANG-YLANG ESSENTIAL OIL?

The essential oil of the Ylang-Ylang is extracted through steam distillation of the plant’s flowers. These flowers are star-shaped and have a yellow pigment. The oil extracted varies in the intensity of the scent. The sequential activity of the extraction divides them into various grades. It is stated that the oil could be extracted from its flower up to four times.

In total there are 5 diversifications present in the Ylang-ylang oil. The oil derived from the first 1-2 hours of the distillation process is called ‘Extra’. The next I, II, III grades are obtained in the subsequent hours by fragments of time specifically determined. The Ylang-ylang ‘Complete’ belongs to the fifth category grading. The final one is rolled-out after undergoing almost 6-20 hours of the distillation process. 

The oil of this plant would be described as fruity and sweet with a subtle floral and pungent essence. Even the Ylang-ylang ‘Complete’ version retains most of the essence of the original flower and is known to be more herbaceous than the previous distillation products. Because of which the scent would be slightly lighter as compared to the ‘Extra” counterparts.

The major component present in this oil is stated to be linalool. Even the lavender, basil, and coriander oil are known to have this ingredient. The Ylang-ylang is named to be one of the higher complex essential oils. There are close to 100 different components present in substantial amounts. Some other prominent components present in this oil are geranyl acetate, germacrene-D, Benzyl acetate, methyl benzoate, farnesene. 

It is stated that the Ylang-Ylang flowers should be hand-picked during the nocturnal hours to prevent the diminishing of its highly aromatic compounds.