Organic Jasmine Flowers (Jaminum odoratissimum)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Jasmine Flowers (Jasminum spp.)

Family: Oleaceae

Common Names: Common Jasmine, Poet’s Jasmine, Summer Jasmine, Yasmin

Botanical Description: Jasmine is a deciduous or evergreen shrub or vine, depending on the species, that can grow up to 10-15 feet tall. It has slender, woody stems with pinnate leaves that are dark green and glossy. Jasmine is best known for its small, star-shaped flowers that are typically white or yellow, though some species may have pink flowers. These flowers are intensely fragrant, especially in the evening, and bloom primarily in summer but can vary depending on the species.

Habitat and Cultivation: Jasmine is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. Jasmine is commonly grown in gardens, on trellises, or as a potted plant for its beautiful, fragrant flowers. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10, depending on the species.

Parts Used: Flowers

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Jasmine has a long history of use in perfumery, aromatherapy, and traditional medicine. In ancient India and China, jasmine was revered for its beauty and fragrance and was often used in religious ceremonies, weddings, and as a symbol of love and purity. In aromatherapy, jasmine essential oil has been used for centuries to calm the mind, elevate mood, and as an aphrodisiac. In traditional medicine, jasmine flowers were used to treat various ailments, including headaches, depression, and skin disorders.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Cooling, relaxing
• Taste: Sweet, aromatic, slightly bitter

Medicinal Actions:

• Antidepressant: Elevates mood and alleviates symptoms of depression.
• Sedative: Promotes relaxation and helps to induce sleep.
• Aphrodisiac: Enhances libido and sexual vitality.
• Antispasmodic: Relieves muscle spasms and cramps.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the skin and respiratory system.
• Antimicrobial: Fights bacterial and fungal infections.

System Affinities:

• Nervous System: Jasmine is well-known for its calming and mood-enhancing effects. It is used to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, and to promote restful sleep.
• Reproductive System: Jasmine’s aphrodisiac properties make it useful in enhancing sexual vitality and addressing reproductive health issues.
• Respiratory System: Jasmine is sometimes used to relieve respiratory conditions such as coughs and colds, as its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can soothe irritation and fight infection.
• Skin: Jasmine is used in skincare for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it effective in treating dry, irritated, or inflamed skin.

Active Compounds:

• Benzyl Acetate: A compound responsible for the sweet, floral scent of jasmine, contributing to its calming and aphrodisiac effects.
• Linalool: A terpene with sedative and anti-anxiety properties.
• Indole: A compound with a strong fragrance that contributes to jasmine’s aphrodisiac effects.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect the skin from oxidative stress.
• Salicylic Acid: Contributes to jasmine’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, useful in treating skin conditions.

Uses:

1. Aromatherapy: Jasmine essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy to alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. Its uplifting scent helps to promote relaxation and emotional balance.
2. Sleep Aid: The calming effects of jasmine make it a popular choice for promoting restful sleep and treating insomnia. It can be used as a tea or in aromatherapy.
3. Aphrodisiac: Jasmine is traditionally used to enhance libido and sexual vitality. It can be used in massage oils, bath blends, or as a fragrant tea.
4. Skin Care: Jasmine is used in skincare products to soothe and moisturize the skin. It is effective in treating dry, sensitive, or inflamed skin, as well as in managing acne and other skin conditions.
5. Respiratory Health: Jasmine flowers can be used in teas or infusions to relieve coughs, colds, and other respiratory conditions by reducing inflammation and fighting infections.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Jasmine is generally considered safe, but pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before using jasmine essential oil, as it is potent and may have uterine-stimulating effects.
• Allergies: People with sensitivities to jasmine or other fragrant flowers should use jasmine with caution, as it may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
• Skin Sensitivity: Jasmine essential oil should be diluted before topical use, as it can cause skin irritation in some people.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Journal of Health Research demonstrated the anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects of inhaling jasmine essential oil, supporting its traditional use in aromatherapy for stress relief .
2. Research in Phytotherapy Research highlighted the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of jasmine, validating its use in treating skin conditions and respiratory infections .
3. Another study in Archives of Sexual Behavior explored the aphrodisiac effects of jasmine, confirming its traditional use in enhancing sexual vitality and addressing reproductive health issues .