Cananga Odorata Flower Oil

Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, otherwise known as ylang-ylang oil, is derived from the perfumy yellow flowers of the Cananga tree native to tropical Asia. This is a complex mixture of different substances whereby linalool is responsible for about 1-19%, and benzyl benzoate for about 2-10%, of the full content of this chemical compound and gives it typical odors and properties. These components also make up 37.6% of EU-recognized sensitizers, indicating potential skin sensitization.
Ylang-ylang oil's highest grade, therefore, is "Extra," with an exceptionally rich fragrance due to the elevated levels of benzyl acetate and cresyl methyl ether which it contains. Thus, it is normally preferred in high-end perfumes. The classes First and Second are of lower-grade oil, less fragrant, which becomes the norm in cosmetic formulations.
Beyond its perfume, ylang-ylang oil is claimed to be antimicrobial and antioxidant to some degree and demonstrate a slight natural insect repellency. Its sedative and soothing action has been validated in a few studies on aromatherapy; however, this is more associated with the respiratory route rather than cosmetic application to the skin. Being highly skin sensitizing, ylang-ylang oil must be carefully used, particularly in fragrances that are to be applied to sensitive skins.