Essential Oil Profile - Jasminum officinalis

10:50 PM Posted by Jo's Health Corner/www.naturallysports.com

I love the smell of jasmine. It is a very sensual, exotic, and relaxing aroma that makes you feel good. It eases any negative feelings and makes me feel so relaxed. Jasmine has long been used for its effect on the reproductive system. It is used as an aphrodisiac and to assist in childbirth. It is considered one of the most effective essential oils for depression, nervous anxiety, and restlessness.

The aroma of jasmine is quite intense, and it doesn't change much in character during a smell test. To best describe the aroma I would say that the top note is rich, sweet, floral, and exotic but not overpowering. The middle note is floral, sensual, sweet and summery. Finally, the base note is sweet, floral, quite strong, pleasant, round and full-bodied. It is of course a very feminine aroma.

Jasminum officinalis is grown in certain part of India, China, Morocco, Italy and Egypt. It is also grown in South of France. 14 different species exists but the most commonly used in aromatherapy are Grandiflorum (officinalis) and J. sambac.

Jasmine has been used for thousands of years, and is called the Moonshine in the Garden in India. It has also been used in Hindu medicine for a long time. Liver cirrhosis, hepatitis, and dysentery are treated with jasmine in China.

Jasmine blends well with bergamot, clary sage, frankincense, geranium, lavender, orange, mandarin, neroli, palmarosa, rose, rosewood, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang.

Jasmine is a great oil for emotional problems, and it is a known anti-depressant. It is also helpful in childbirth and will assist in labor. It is massaged in the back and the lower abdomen, and may relieve pain in the lower abdomen.

Jasmine will also assist in the expulsion of the placenta. It's hormonal activity is useful in menstrual problems. It may relieve spasms of the uterus. Jasmine is also a good oil for for the skin and may help in conditions such as eczema, dermatitis, and dry aggravated skin.

Except for the use in labor, jasmine is contra-indicated in pregnancy and breast-feeding. It should not be taken internally unless it is a steam distilled oil. Long term use may cause sensitization.

Some therapeutic actions of jasmine: analgesic, anti-fungal, aphrodisiac, carminative, anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue, expectorant and a uterine tonic. Some of the therapeutic actions are explained here.