
No other essential oil is capable of changing our mood so intensely and that it offers little choice other than optimism. The fragrance penetrates the deepest layers of our soul, opening the doors to our emotions.1
Fischer-Rizzi perfectly describes the effect of Jasmine Sambac on our psyche.
J. sambac, also known as Tuscan jasmine, was introduced into India by the Duke of Tuscany about 1691. Jasmine reached China along the Silk Road and the use of its flowers to flavour tea, mo-li-hau-cha, originated there. Such teas now use J. paniculatum flowers.2
Traditional medicine
As a medicinal plant jasmine has traditionally been considered an aphrodisiac and relaxant.
Jasmine species were mentioned in ancient Indian Ayurvedic literature. The oil was traditionally used in treatment of various conditions such as arthritis, hepatitis, conjunctivitis, gastritis and diarrhea.
In China, the flowers of J. officinale var. grandiflorum are mainly used to treat hepatitis, pain due to liver cirrhosis, and abdominal pain due to dysentery, while the flowers of J. sambac are used to treat conjunctivitis, skin ulcers and tumours, as well as abdominal pain due to dysentery.7
Pharmacology and clinical studies
Many pharmacological studies involving jasmine absolute have been published. A systemic review of these studies will not be attempted. Rather, I have chosen a selection of studies that support the traditional and clinical uses.
Childbirth
A six-month trial was conducted involving 500 women at a maternity hospital using essential oils such as chamomile, clary sage, eucalyptus, jasmine, frankincense, lavender, lemon, mandarin, peppermint and rose. The oils were administered by inhalation, bath and massage. A high level of overall satisfaction by mothers and midwives was noted on the use of essential oils during labour.
Psychological
The therapeutic value of jasmine absolute is inseparable from the exquisite, comforting sweetness of its aroma, and the effect it has on the mind and emotions. Jasmine is considered one of the most effective essential oils for nervous anxiety, restlessness and depression.
The fragrance of jasmine diminishes fear; it is helpful in enhancing self-confidence and defeating pessimism.
Mojay explains that jasmine is ideal whenever fear and vulnerability, or anxiety and depression, cut us off from our ability to share physical pleasure and affection. Jasmine can reawaken our passion and reunite it with love, providing us with support and reassure us.
Jasmine acts best on depression of the Yang deficiency. This includes symptoms such as apathy, chilliness, fatigue, weakness and restlessness.
Jasmine absolute has been described as a powerful antidepressant of a stimulating nature. It is recommended when depression has given rise to lethargy.
Reproductive system
Jasmine absolute is one of the most useful oils to use during childbirth. If it is used as a massage oil on the abdomen and lower back in the early stages of labour it will relieve the pain and strengthen the contractions. It helps with the expulsion of the placenta after delivery and aids postnatal recovery. It can be used to relieve spasms of the uterus and delayed and painful menstruation.
Skin care
Jasmine absolute is particularly useful in skin care and is used to treat dry and irritated skin.
Jasmine absolute regulates the Qi of the Heart and harmonises the Shen. Whenever we experience disharmony of the Shenwe may experience feelings of moodiness, anxiety, irritability, restlessness and insomnia. We lack inspiration and insight and there is no ‘heart and soul’ to life.
According to the principles of Five Elements, jasmine strengthens the Fire Element.
According to the principles of Ayurveda, jasmine has a strong affinity with Pitta dosha, it reduces excess Kapha dosha and stimulates the Vata dosha.
Personality
Worwood describes the jasmine personality as the passionate seductress, gentle and charismatic, bewitching all those who come into her presence.
While Worwood is describing the female jasmine personality, she states that the male jasmine man is equally charming, charismatic and at ease with his femininity. Jasmine is a no-holds-barred personality, the passionate seductress, gentle and charismatic, bewitching all who come into her presence. Jasmine personalities are joyful, happy people, comfortable with themselves. They can be unnerving if you are not used to them, particularly at work.
According to Myers-Briggs personality types, the jasmine personality is likely to be an ESFP. ESFPs are friendly, witty, charming and talkative. They value and nurture their relationships, give generously, without expecting anything in return. They are spontaneous, playful and enjoy everything they do and see. People who share their sense of fun and adventure are their favourite companions. They turn everything into a fun-filled event. They enjoy good things in life – music, dance, food, drink and entertainment. They avoid being alone. They like working in a lively and stimulating atmosphere with friendly, energetic people. They can be good at dealing with the public. They like variety and frequent change of tasks or jobs. They are enthusiastic, high-spirited and have lots of energy.
Subtle
Lavabre best summarises the subtle qualities of jasmine when he says that it releases inhibition, liberates imagination, develops exhilarating playfulness and has the power to transcend physical love fully releasing both male and female sexual energy.
Mojay recommends jasmine for depression which results from unconscious restraint and repression – an approach to life based on values discordant with the individual soul and its true desires.
Zeck recommends using jasmine when you are faced with seemingly unresolved emotional challenges and feeling fearful. She states that the exotic beauty of jasmine will dissolve those fears and provide divine inspiration.
Worwood states that jasmine softly embraces the spirit and the heart. This promotes a greater understanding of the conscious mind. She explains that jasmine’s purpose is to provide us with our personal haven – this allows us to find a greater resonation with our higher self. She explains that our aspirations may not always be what is required to follow a spiritual journey. Often our dreams and wishes for others may deflect them from our spiritual journey. Jasmine helps us to understand and accept this.
According to Keim Loughran & Bull, Jasmine promotes love and sensuality. It also connects our spirituality and sexuality, and promotes creativity and artistic development.
How to use
Add directly to pulse points.
Bath
Full body bath, foot bath
Topical
Compress, massage, ointment, skin care
Inhalation
Direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporiser
Safety
Jasmine absolute is non-irritating, non-sensitising and non-toxic.
Store out of reach of children
Do not ingest