Jasmine’s delicate scent is tinted with an erotic and exotic smell, close to being compared to a narcotic. This powerfully sweet and enduring fragrance has been used in many perfumes for ages and its flowers are worn by women in Southern and Southeast Asia for fashion. Some religions even consider Jasmine to be a flower of joy, hope and love.
Curative benefits
The Chinese have supposedly treated certain illnesses like hepatitis and dysentery with Jasmine. They also used it in the ailing of such nervous system disorders as depression and nervousness in addition to encouraging sound breathing. Physicians in Europe, however, used this “queen of the night,” as it is sometimes referred to, to relieve labor pains and promote contractions. Jasmine is believed to speed up the overall childbirth recovery process and even promotes milk production and good menstrual flow, while toning the uterus in addition. Menopausal women also get to enjoy some benefits as Jasmine has the ability to calm and comfort those going through the phase. Not only is it helpful for relieving reproductive problems, but also is known to help alleviate muscle sprains and spasms. It is believed to ease coughs and may even help the body rid of unwanted mucus.
Beauty benefits
Jasmine tends to favor all skin types. Its ability to restrain bacteria and control oil production enables it to manage oily skin and slow down acne. It also gives adequate moisture to dry or mature skin.
Some of Jasmine’s emotional benefits are known to include an ability to help balance moods by promoting self-confidence, pleasure, love and cheerfulness, thereby causing a decline in depression, anxiety, stress, emotional fatigue, anger, fear, and shyness. Jasmine might also be yet another motivational source for today’s artist as it is known to encourage creativity and inspire artistic expression.
CAUTION: Jasmine stimulates menstruation; it is not to be used during pregnancy. Please consult a medical professional before using for any medicinal purposes.
Source:
Wilson, Roberta. Aromatherapy: Essential Oils for Vibrant Health & Beauty. New York: Penguin, 2002.