The extract of jasmine flower oil is a popular fragrance used in aromatherapy for stress relief.  It is reputed to sedate the nervous system, and is therefore prescribed for a wide range of emotional conditions.  It is also a popular ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics such as creams, soaps and shampoos.  The flowers are renowned for their intense exotic fragrance, and are reputedly an aphrodisiac.  In China, the flowers are also used to scent and flavour tea.  Jasmine typically grows as a shrub, vine or creeper, and is a member of the olive family, found in tropical and warm temperate regions. Today, most jasmine is cultivated in Egypt and India, while smaller quantities are produced in Morocco, Algeria, France and Italy.

Because of the quantity of flower petals it takes to make a small amount of oil it also a very expensive essential oil.  The difficulty in extracting the oil in sufficient quantities using traditional steam distillation requires solvents to be used to produce what is termed a concrete.  This is made up of fats, waxes, essential oils and plant matter.  The solid perfume or a viscous liquid is then extracted from this.   Many products sold as an essential oil will be prediluted in a base oil such as grape seed oil.

What is good about it?

Jasmine is a versatile agent indicated in numerous conditions.  Some of the well documented actions include:

• Antidepressant – jasmine creates a sense of general wellbeing.  It also aids in alleviating post-natal depression.
• Childbirth – if rubbed into the lower abdomen the oil can help relieve the pain associated with childbirth
• PMS – jasmine can ease menstrual pain and cramps
• Respiratory system – known to help by calming irritating coughs and regulating breathing
• Dermatitis - excellent for skin especially dry and sensitive skins.  It is also useful for alleviating stretch marks and scarring, and is sympathetic to sensitive or mature skin
• Antiseptic - in India, jasmine flowers infused into sesame oil are applied to abscesses and sores that are difficult to heal.  It also inhibits bacteria and regulates oil production, thereby helping acne and oily skin
• Insomnia – jasmine acts as a natural sedative
• Mental alertness – by stimulating brain waves
• Meditation – aids in balancing mood
• Aphrodisiac – by releasing both male and female sexual energy
• Conjunctivitis – a strong jasmine tea is used to bathe infected eyes in Indonesia
• Headaches – particularly from nervous tension
• Cancer research - an anti-cancer drug based on jasmonate, a synthetic compound derived from the flower, has shown positive results in treating blood cancers and tumours
• Home - Jasmine can also be planted near windows or doors to help perfume your home

Side effects

There very few side effects associated with jasmine, though due to its potency it should be used sparingly.  People with hypersensitive skin may have to dilute it to prevent irritation, and it should not be applied internally.  Essential oils are also highly concentrated and should be used with care.

If you think you have a condition that may benefit from the use of jasmine consult your naturopath or complementary health stockist for further advice.