Can You Eat Ylang Ylang Essential Oil? Why Ingestion is Not Recommended
The short and critical answer is no, you should not eat ylang ylang essential oil in its concentrated form. This is a crucial distinction that often leads to confusion. The highly concentrated essential oil, commonly used for aromatherapy and topical applications, is not the same as the miniscule, highly processed extract used in food flavorings. Attempting to consume the concentrated essential oil can result in serious health issues, including toxicity, skin irritation, and severe allergic reactions. Its potency is simply too high for the human body to process safely, especially without expert guidance. This guide will clarify the important differences and provide essential safety information for using ylang ylang products correctly.
The Difference Between Essential Oil and Food-Grade Flavoring
Many people incorrectly assume that because a substance is natural, it is automatically safe to ingest. The case of ylang ylang is a perfect example of why this thinking is dangerous. The concentrated essential oil contains a powerful blend of chemical compounds, including monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, which can be harmful when consumed in high doses. The amount of ylang ylang oil approved by the FDA and FEMA for use as a food flavoring is extremely small, and the oil itself is specifically processed and diluted for this purpose. This is a key difference. For instance, the oil used in a floral tea blend has been properly prepared for ingestion, unlike the potent liquid in a small brown bottle intended for a diffuser or diluted topical application.
- Concentrated Essential Oil: Intended for external applications like diffusion or dilution in a carrier oil for massage. Not for internal use. High potency increases risk of toxicity and side effects if ingested.
- Food-Grade Flavoring: A highly processed, incredibly small quantity of ylang ylang extract that has been deemed safe by regulatory bodies for use in foods. This is not the same product you would buy for aromatherapy.
Risks and Dangers of Ingesting Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
Ingesting concentrated ylang ylang essential oil can lead to a host of adverse reactions. The chemical components that give ylang ylang its distinct floral aroma and therapeutic benefits are also what make it dangerous if swallowed. The primary risks include:
- Aspiration Toxicity: If accidentally swallowed, especially in large amounts, ylang ylang oil can enter the airways, leading to chemical pneumonia and severe pulmonary injury, which can be fatal.
- Gastrointestinal Distress: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common symptoms of ingesting essential oils. The oil's potency can irritate the mucous membranes and the digestive tract.
- Systemic Toxicity: The liver is responsible for metabolizing these compounds, but in large doses, the liver can be overwhelmed. Since essential oils are fat-soluble, they are rapidly absorbed into the body, leading to systemic effects.
- Allergic Reactions: While a reaction might be topical, ingestion can cause a systemic allergic response. Ylang ylang contains many allergens, and exposure to high concentrations can trigger a reaction.
- Hypotensive Effects: Ylang ylang is known to lower blood pressure. Ingestion could cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure, especially for individuals already on medication for hypertension.
- Central Nervous System (CNS) Effects: While known for its calming effects in aromatherapy, large doses can cause CNS depression or other neurological issues.
Comparison: Safe vs. Unsafe Ylang Ylang Practices
Understanding the correct application methods for ylang ylang oil is crucial for safety. The table below highlights the stark contrast between safe and potentially dangerous uses.
| Feature | Safe Use (Topical & Aromatherapy) | Unsafe Use (Ingestion) |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Concentrated essential oil, diluted with carrier oil or water. | Concentrated essential oil, ingested directly or in high amounts. |
| Application Method | Diffuser, diluted massage oil, skincare additive, bathwater. | Adding drops directly to water, tea, or food without proper dilution/guidance. |
| Risk of Toxicity | Low risk when properly diluted and used externally. | High risk, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or aspiration toxicity. |
| Allergic Reaction | Possible, especially with sensitive skin. A patch test is recommended. | Higher risk of severe systemic allergic reaction. |
| Regulatory Status | Regulated for cosmetic/aromatherapy use. | Not approved for ingestion as a concentrated essential oil. |
| Intended Purpose | Therapeutic benefits like relaxation, mood enhancement, skin and hair health. | Mistakenly taken for internal health benefits without scientific basis. |
The Importance of Dilution and Professional Guidance
For safe topical application, ylang ylang essential oil must always be diluted in a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil. This reduces the risk of skin sensitization and allergic reactions, which are known to occur with this particular oil. First-time users should always perform a patch test on a small area of skin. The same principle of extreme caution applies to any discussion of internal use. While some essential oil companies and non-experts might claim that internal use is possible with "therapeutic-grade" oils, most qualified health professionals and aromatherapists advise against it due to the inherent risks and lack of regulation.
Moreover, the risk profile changes dramatically for certain groups. Pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, children, and pets should have no exposure to concentrated ylang ylang essential oil, as it can be toxic to animals. Always store essential oils securely and away from children and pets.
Understanding the GRAS Distinction for Flavoring
The "Generally Recognized As Safe" (GRAS) status granted by the FDA for ylang ylang oil applies only to its use as a flavoring agent. This is not an endorsement for widespread consumption or ingestion of concentrated oil. The quantities involved in flavoring are so minute that they do not pose the same risk as concentrated consumption. The confusion arises when consumers misinterpret this status, believing it grants carte blanche to ingest the oil in any amount. A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry on the safety of ylang-ylang as a food ingredient noted that at the current estimated intake levels (around 0.0001 mg/kg/day), the oil does not pose a health risk. This minuscule amount is profoundly different from the volume in a single drop of concentrated essential oil.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety Above All Else
Ultimately, the question of "can you eat ylang ylang oil?" should be answered with an emphatic no, especially when referring to the concentrated essential oil intended for aromatherapy and topical use. While highly diluted, processed ylang ylang extracts are used in certain foods, this practice is strictly regulated and distinct from home consumption of essential oils. The potential for serious side effects, including aspiration toxicity, systemic harm, and allergic reactions, far outweighs any unsubstantiated benefit. For therapeutic purposes, enjoy ylang ylang safely through diffusion, inhalation, or proper dilution for topical application, and always consult a healthcare professional for specific medical advice. Consult authoritative safety data sheets for any essential oil before use.
