This or That: Extra, 3 Superior, or Complete Ylang Ylang

Are you telling me that all the different types of Ylang Ylang come from the same blossom?

Yes, that's true. When botanicals are steam distilled to produce essential oils there are molecules that escape in this process to make them safer to use. Ylang Ylang is always distilled in "fractions". This means that the distillation process is stopped at various stages and the essential oil produced at that point is taken off and then the distillation continues.

Hopefully, this guide will help you find out which variety is the best for you!

How are these variations of Ylang Ylang produced?

When botanicals are steam distilled to produce essential oils, the aromatic molecules, the "notes," that are the smallest, the lightest, and the most delicate, escape first. Then throughout the distillation process, the larger and heavier aromatic molecules are released.

Ylang Ylang is always distilled in “fractions.” This means that the distillation process is stopped at various stages and the essential oil produced at that point is taken off and then the distillation continues. There are actually five different classifications or types of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil based on the time at which the oil is fractionated off.

When the steam distillation process begins, the oil that is collected within the first hour or two is called Ylang Ylang Extra which is often considered the best fraction for use in perfumery. The aroma is sweeter, fruitier, and has a very floral scent compared to other Ylang Ylang fractions. However, this fraction is the most volatile and can be overpowering in aroma to some.

After the Ylang Ylang Extra is fractionated off, there are 3 more grades (I, II, and III) Ylang Ylang to be fractionated off. Ylang Ylang III is produced in the fourth step of the distillation process. The different grades do not indicate the quality of the oil! The differences are in the main constituents present in each grade which influences the overall scent of the oil. Ylang Ylang III Superior’s aroma is richer and less sweet, a floral aroma with more herbaceous and earthy hints to influence your senses.

Ylang Ylang Complete becomes the closest to the actual aroma of Ylang Ylang because of it is produced by an undisturbed distillation of between 15-20 hours. This variety of Ylang Ylang has fruity notes and retains a rich floral character, but with a heavier balsamic aroma. Surprisingly, Ylang Ylang Complete is not a fraction, but is the total of all fractions! This is why it is the preferred oil for aromatherapy.*

Let’s take a look into each Ylang Ylang

• First Step of Distillation: Ylang Ylang Extra

Ylang Ylang Extra is an uplifting and soothing oil to help the nervous system, the circulatory system, and the integumentary system.* It influences moods by providing support to your emotional well-being.* Ylang Ylang Extra can also help you deal with stressors in life such as anger or anxiety.*

The circulatory system is the lifeblood of our body, without it we would not be able to live.* However, with a rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure, the body could have more issues.* Ylang Ylang Extra has soothing and sedative properties that calms the circulation of your blood.* Not only does it help the heart, but it eases muscle spasms that relax tense muscles.*

Your skin is the body's largest organ and protects from various environmental elements such as dirt or pollution, but sometimes it needs help to stay balanced.* Ylang Ylang Extra can help by reducing skin inflammation and clearing skin imperfections.* Lastly, this magical essential oil can be used with a carrier oil to produce a hair tonic to support a healthy scalp.*

• Fourth Step of Distillation: Ylang Ylang III

This exotic aroma is also a powerful aphrodisiac that may be just what you need to get in the mood for your next romantic dinner date!* Ylang Ylang 3 Superior Essential Oil has been known for its soothing and relaxing properties that can help alleviate feelings of tension or stress when diffused.* This is one reason why this wonderful oil is preferred so much in aromatherapy blends and DIY projects!* Plus, it helps uplift feelings of anxiety and depression.*

Ylang Ylang 3 Superior Essential Oil is an enriching and calming oil to help support healthy circulation.* By stimulating the tissues, blood can move more freely, which can lead to less inflammation.* Ylang Ylang boosts circulation to assist heart functions and relax high blood pressure.* It can also reduce rapid breathing problems like asthma with this increased flow of blood!*

• Final Step of Distillation: Ylang Ylang Complete

Ylang Ylang Complete is a powerful aphrodisiac that not only helps alleviate sexual dysfunction, but also reduces muscle aches and pain.* It's the preferred choice of therapists because it stimulates endorphins, which create feelings well-being and reduces your worries about life so you can focus more on what matters most.*

The rich, heavy floral scent of Ylang Ylang Essential Oil is exotic, sweet, and sensual. It’s well known for its intoxicating, relaxing effects—which quiet the mind, heart, and body.* In massage oils, Ylang Ylang can help muscles release years of stored tension and open the heart to deep healing and bliss — just like what our bodies' own endorphins do on their own accord during times when they need them most.* Plus, it helps calm your circulation, which supports healthy blood pressure.*

Ylang Ylang Complete Essential Oil is also widely used in the cosmetic field to develop balancing and revitalizing treatments.* Applied well diluted in a carrier oil or other natural care product, it helps to cleanse and regenerate all skin types, while regulating sebum production.* It is additionally renowned for nourishing, strengthening and bringing shine to the hair.*

3 Diffuser Recipes Using Each Variety of Ylang Ylang

Final Thoughts from Dr. Streicher and the Team

While Ylang Ylang Essential Oils can be one of 5 different versions, you need to ask yourself which version is best for you. Is it the slightly sweet and flower aroma of Ylang Ylang Extra that boosts and supports positive moods while soothing skin and muscle tissues?* Or is it the heady and euphoric aroma of Ylang Ylang 3 Superior that lifts your spirits while promoting relaxation?* Or is it the sensual and subtle floral aroma that calms and supports healthy circulation while calming a frazzled mind of negative moods found within Ylang Ylang Complete?* Whichever you pick, your body and mind will thank you!*

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.