All About Jasmine
Jasmine has a seductively floral and heady aroma that is often used in perfumery. As a folk remedy, jasmine has been used for gastric pains, to calm the mind, and as an aphrodisiac. Pregnant women have made a neckless out of the blossoms to help with lactation pains. The flower has antimicrobial capabilities and may be helpful against acne bacteria and the Hepatitis B virus.
Fun Fact
In response to the frustrating power of the Chinese government, unsatisfied citizens used Jasmine flowers as a symbol during the 2011 Chinese pro-democracy protests.
Jasmine Research
About a dozen research articles were found on jasmine. It has shown in vitro to have antimicrobial actions, with potential against acne bacteria and the Hepatitis B virus. It may also help with ulcers, as a herbicide, and in repelling insects. A few studies suggest it can improve mood and reduce pains associated with lactation; more research is warranted. Click the button below for a detailed review of research.
Jasmine
Latin Name: Jasminum grandiflorum
Family: Oleaceae
Other Names
- Other common names: moonshine in the garden, moonlight of the grove, yasmin
- Other Latin names: Jasminum officinale
- Not to be confused with: Jasminum sambac which has a very differing chemistry
- Not to be confused with gardenia and gelsemium.
Plant Description
Jasmine is a widely cultivated ornamental evergreen vine with exotic white fragrant flowers.
Herb Description
Flowers can be infused or made into a tincture. To make jasmine tea, add 5 fresh blossoms or 10g of dried flowers to hot but not boiling water and steep only 5 minutes. Adults can drink up to 3 cups a day.
Essential Oil Description
Oil is usually solvent extracted from the flowers with a very low yield and expensive price. The viscosity is silky, with a dark orangish color and a heavy, floral scent that has a fruity, spicy undertone. Jasmine can be a very potent aroma in very small amounts, and can easily overpower a blend; dilute.
Key Constituents of Absolute
- Benzyl acetate
- Benzyl benzoate
- Phytol / Isophytol / Phytyl acetate
- Indole
- Linalool / Beta Linalool / Linalyl Alcohol / Linalyl Oxide
- Geranyl linalool
- Squalene / Squalene oxide
- Jasmone
- Eugenol
- Methyl jasmonate
- Jasmolactone
