Ylang Ylang: The Sensual Scent of the Tropics
Exotic. Sensual. Alluring. Captivating.
These words barely begin to capture the essence of ylang ylang—a flower so fragrant and enchanting it has earned the nickname the perfume tree. Scientifically known as Cananga odorata, this tropical beauty belongs to the custard apple family (Annonaceae) and is native to the lush islands of the Philippines, with its presence now widespread across Southeast Asia and parts of Polynesia.
Towering up to 20 meters, the ylang ylang tree stands tall and graceful, its branches spiraling elegantly with glossy, plane-arranged leaves. Its flowers, yellow-green and star-like, emit a heady aroma that has captured hearts for centuries. These blossoms are not only beautiful—they are also the source of the essential oil that has become a staple in aromatherapy, magic, and ritual.
A Cultural and Botanical Treasure
Across the Pacific, ylang ylang has woven itself into the cultural tapestry of many island nations. In the Philippines, you'll often find bunches of ylang ylang blooms offered at churches, a fragrant expression of devotion and spirituality. In Polynesia, the flowers are used to make fragrant leis and are infused into coconut oil for skin and hair.
The tree has also been used in traditional medicine. In Tonga, it's called Mohokoi, where the bark is combined with erythrina bark (ngatae) to create a soothing infusion for abdominal ailments. In Samoa, known as Moso‘oi, a bark-based tea is used as a gentle laxative.
The Aroma of Intimacy
Ylang ylang’s scent—sweet, floral, and undeniably exotic—has earned it a place in rituals of romance and passion. Traditionally, its petals are scattered on the beds of newlyweds, a gesture rooted in the belief that its fragrance stirs sensuality and emotional connection.
While modern science has yet to conclusively prove ylang ylang’s reputation as an aphrodisiac, many still swear by its effects. Here’s what we do know:
Traditional Use: Long associated with love and desire, ylang ylang has been used for centuries to enhance mood and intimacy.
Aromatherapy: Its essential oil is said to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and lift the spirit—qualities that can certainly set the stage for intimacy.
Psychological Effects: Emerging studies suggest that ylang ylang may support emotional wellbeing by lowering anxiety and boosting self-esteem.
Scientific Limitations: Research into its direct effects on sexual arousal is still in early stages, and individual responses vary widely.
Spiritual & Magical Benefits
In addition to its physical and emotional effects, ylang ylang holds deep spiritual significance in many traditions:
🌸 Heart Chakra Activation – Its floral aroma is associated with the heart chakra (Anahata), opening pathways for compassion, love, and emotional healing.
🌙 Divine Feminine Energy – Ylang ylang is often used in rituals to evoke the energy of the divine feminine, helping to balance yin energies and enhance inner intuition.
🕯️ Attraction & Manifestation – Used in love spells and attraction rituals, ylang ylang’s sensual scent draws in desire and magnetism. It’s perfect for setting intentions related to romance, self-love, and personal magnetism.
🧘🏽♀️ Calm & Connection – Ideal for meditation and sacred baths, its energy calms the nervous system, encouraging deeper connection with spirit, ancestors, and self.
Product Spotlight: Ylang Ylang in Herbalaria Products
At Herbalaria, we honor the cultural and spiritual essence of ylang ylang through our handcrafted offerings. You’ll find this flower in two of our most beloved products:
💖 Love Potion No. 10
A heart-opening oil blend designed to ignite desire, deepen emotional connection, and awaken sensual energy. Infused with ylang ylang, this potion is ideal for romantic rituals or moments of self-love.
✨ Use it for:
- Love rituals
- Anointing pulse points before a date
- Bathing in intention and beauty
🌌 Tadhana
A mystical, cosmic fragrance that speaks to destiny and alignment. Anchored by the sweet floral notes of ylang ylang and made with our powerful Moldavite Solstice Manifestation Oil, Tadhana guides you in calling forth what is divinely meant for you.
✨ Use it for:
- Manifestation rituals
- Meditation or journaling
- Connecting to fate, purpose, and cosmic timing
A Note on Safety
Always dilute ylang ylang essential oil before applying it to the skin. Perform a patch test, and consult your healthcare provider if you have sensitivities or are pregnant. Energetically, ylang ylang is strong—use with mindfulness and intention.
Final Thoughts
Be open to exploring ylang ylang for its romantic properties, spiritual depth, and cultural legacy. This plant relative offers a multi-sensory experience rooted in ancient wisdom and modern ritual. It invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect—with your body, your spirit, and those you love.
I hope you enjoyed this blog! Leave me a comment and let me know how you experienced ylang ylang in your life. Salamat! 🙏
References
Whistler, W. A. (1992). Polynesian herbal medicine. National Tropical Botanical Garden.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-697/ylang-ylang-oil
https://www.scielo.br/j/reeusp/a/pxVJcRwHMzPQmNkcKdYJGLn#:~:text=It%20is%20found%20that%20the,2%2C%2012)%2C%20and%20it
https://naturalnicheperfume.com/blog/ylang-ylang-properties-distillation-and-history/