Aromatherapy Spotlight on Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Written by Lisa Maliga
Ylang ylang, pronounced ee-lung ee-lung, is as exotic sounding as tropical regions from where these fragrant flowers originate. The name means, “flower of flowers” and abundantly sweet flowers are prettily colored pink, mauve or yellow, colors frequently seen during sunrise and sunset. These trees flourish in tropics; islands of South Pacific [Philippines, Guam, Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, Cook and Marquesas]. Additionally, ylang ylang trees have been planted in Hawaii and New Caledonia. Near coast of southeast Africa, some of finest ylang ylang producing trees flourish in Comoro Islands and Madagascar. As this distinctively named flower hails from warmer parts of world, [botanical name Cananga Odorata var. genuina] can also warm up your love life. Indonesian newlyweds discover their bed covered in highly scented blossoms as according to “The Essential Oils Book” by Colleen K. Dodt, ylang ylang: “…. is believed to be antidepressant, aphrodisiac, sedative, calming, euphoric…It has been found effective in reducing sexual difficulties resulting from anxiety, stress, and depression.” Before you run out and purchase some ylang ylang, you should be aware of fact that this is an aromatic plant that needs to be used sparingly. Too much ylang ylang and you’ll get a headache. The aroma is annoying to some, but to many it’s very soothing and calming. Ylang ylang is reminiscent of another tropical floral star in aromatherapy, namely jasmine. It has been dubbed “poor man’s jasmine” as lower grades of ylang ylang are priced in single or double digits. The botanical name is derived from Malaysian word, “kenanga” which is vernacular for genus. “Odorata” simply means fragrant. Grades of Ylang Ylang: As with any essential oil, higher price higher quality. And Ylang ylang, unlike many other essential oils, has several different grades [or fractions] ranging from costly Ylang Ylang Superior Extra down to least expensive, Ylang Ylang III. Ylang Ylang Superior Extra – This is an extraordinary form of ylang ylang which is considered by experts to represent finest notes of this lovely floral. Found on Mayotte Island off coast of Madagascar, this grade of oil is from certified organically grown flowers. Ylang Ylang Complete – This grade is comprised of all fractions of ylang ylang essential oil from Extra to Grades I, II, and III. Ylang Ylang Extra – The most floral smelling of grades. This grade is recommended for perfumers as it is most full-bodied and has spicy background notes. It is taken from initial distillation where petals are only distilled for one hour. Ylang Ylang I – A very nice floral and perfect introduction to this flower essential oil. This is first distillation, obtained during second to third hour of distillation. Ylang Ylang II - This is second distillation, obtained during third to fourth hour of distillation Ylang Ylang III – Having been distilled for at least a day, resulting grade of ylang ylang is heaviest in scent. This grade is best used for aromatherapy beginners on a budget or to scent soap, candles and other bath and body products. Ylang Ylang CO2 – Distilled by CO2 [carbon dioxide], when a certain amount of pressure is applied gas changes to liquid; thus, this is one of safest ways to extract oils. Most ylang ylang extracted in this manner is quite expensive. Ylang Ylang Absolute – This method of extraction is done by alcohol washing of concrete obtained from ylang ylang petals. Done primarily in France from Comoro Islands flowers, pale yellow oil has a balsamic undertone. Absolutes are outstanding for perfumery due to their long-lasting aroma.
| | What Your Chiropractor Knows About Back Pain And Will Never Reveals To You?Written by Roy Chan
Considering fact that majority or between 70 and 90 percent of population will experience some sort of back pain at one time or another, knowledge about back pain relief is certainly welcome, appreciated and a popular topic. One of best ways to begin learning about back pain relief is by understanding basics of back pain: what causes it, how it's diagnosed, what treatments are available, how to manage pain, etc. This article will cover bases for you. FACTS vs MYTHS ABOUT BACK PAIN Let's begin by learning some facts in order to separate truth from myth with regards to back pain. First of all, under one percent of acute lower back pain is result of a serious infection or condition like cancer or a spinal injury. For those under 50, rate is even lower. Back pain is number one disability for those under age 45. And it runs second, after common cold, as top reason for visiting a healthcare provider in United States. “There is nothing really wrong with you.” Myth! Chronic pain sufferers report that doctors generally tell this to about 90 percent of them and it is incorrect. In reality, majority of low back pain cases or some 90 percent generally come from an unknown cause, like an infection or a particular injury. And duration of pain runs generally from four to six weeks. “People don't die from chronic back pain.” Wrong! The pain combined with depression and anxiety in long-term cases places sufferers at risk for suicide, which does happen from time to time.
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