ingredient focus: ylang ylang

Ylang ylang (Canaga odorata) is a scented flower derived from a tropical tree native to Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines, although it has also been introduced to China, India, and Africa.  Although ylang ylang is best known for its rich floral fragrance, it has been demonstrated to have a number of different functions.  As an anti-microbial, it demonstrates activity against the bacteria Propionibacterium acnes and Klebsiella species, and shows anti-fungal activity against Candida albicans.  Anti-oxidant and insect repellant activity has also been shown in the oil derived from ylang ylang.  A study examining effects on melanogenesis found that several compounds isolated from the flower can inhibit the production of melanin.  It additionally has potent anti-inflammatory activity. Inhalation of the scent of ylang ylang significantly decreases heart and blood pressure while promoting relaxation. Finally, ylang ylang is believed to act as an aphrodisiac.