Jasmine oil is considered an essential oil extracted from the common jasmine plant’s flowers. The origin of this flower is believed to be in Iran, but it can be found today in tropical regions. For centuries, jasmine has been renowned for its unique fragrance and has been used in some of the most famous perfumes throughout history, including Chanel No. 5. It is also used as a common ingredient in some desserts
Health Benefits and Uses of Jasmine Oil
Jasmine oil and its synthetic compounds possess properties that offer several health benefits. Whether used in its natural or synthetic form, jasmine oil is considered beneficial for various health applications. While it is commonly used as a home remedy to treat a wide range of conditions, from depression to inflammation, caution should be exercised in some cases
Antidepressant:
There is evidence suggesting that aromatherapy can effectively reduce symptoms of depression. An exploratory study on jasmine essential oil showed that, compared to a placebo, jasmine oil contributes to increased behavioral arousal. This includes a significant increase in blood oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Participants who used jasmine oil also reported feeling more alert. Researchers concluded that the stimulating effect of jasmine oil could be beneficial in alleviating depression and improving mood.
According to another study published in the Health Research Journal, the effects of inhaling jasmine oil on the central nervous system and mood were positive. Results indicated that inhaling jasmine oil had a positive impact on brain activity and mood states. Participants reported feeling more positive, vibrant, and romantic.
You can harness the mental benefits of aromatherapy with jasmine oil by using it in massage oil, in a diffuser, or simply by inhaling it directly from the bottle
Antibacterial:
Jasmine oil derived from different plant varieties has been found to have antibacterial properties. It has been widely studied to determine its antibacterial effects, demonstrating its ability to combat various bacteria strains.
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In one study, natural jasmine oil derived from the Jasmine Sambac plant, along with its synthetic counterparts, showed antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli). Another study found that jasmine oil exhibited antimicrobial effectiveness against various microorganisms in the mouth, including Lactobacillus casei and Streptococcus mutans. It also acted as an antimicrobial agent against all tested yeast strains, bacteria responsible for oral thrush.
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Jasmine oil can be effective in treating and preventing infections when applied topically on the skin or used as a mouthwash for oral infections, such as oral thrush. Inhaling jasmine oil has also shown positive effects, reducing respiratory system inflammation and potentially easing symptoms of colds and coughs
Antispasmodic:
Jasmine is used as a home remedy to alleviate spasms in various parts of the body, from stomach cramps causing spasms to spasmodic coughs. While scientific evidence on the ability of jasmine oil to reduce spasms is very limited, one study did show its effectiveness in reducing labor pains when used in massage. Despite the limited evidence, using jasmine oil in muscle massage does not cause harm and may provide some relief from spasms
Wound Healing:
Jasmine oil may have a positive effect on wound healing, promoting scar tissue formation. Evidence suggests that jasmine oil possesses antimicrobial properties, contributing to the treatment of skin infections. According to research, jasmine oil contains anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in overall skincare and improving psoriasis conditions.
A recent study on animals indicated that jasmine extract has the ability to accelerate the healing process of chronic wounds, such as diabetic ulcers. It significantly enhanced wound contraction and scar tissue formation, increasing the formation of new blood vessels.
Applying diluted jasmine oil to minor wounds, such as scratches and small cuts, may accelerate the healing process. It may also contribute to reducing the appearance of scars and effectively treating oily crackles that often occur during pregnancy
Menopausal Symptoms:
In the realm of alleviating menopausal symptoms, essential oils are not a new solution, as they have been used for a long time to relieve menopausal pains such as hot flashes and depression. Although evidence of jasmine oil’s effect in reducing menopausal symptoms is very limited, its proven efficacy in improving mood and reducing signs of depression may indirectly benefit menopausal women.
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A small study suggested that weekly aromatherapy massage sessions using a blend of essential oils, including jasmine, were significantly effective in reducing menopausal symptoms. The essential oil blend used included jasmine, lavender, rose, and shepherd’s purse. While using essential oils might not directly cure menopausal symptoms, regular massages with essential oils could provide some relief.
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The “emmenagogue” property of jasmine oil is important for providing relief to women experiencing irregular, painful menstruation or early menopause. This property regulates menstrual cycles and makes periods less painful, contributing to maintaining hormonal balance in the body, which helps in maintaining overall health and fitness
Milk Booster
Jasmine flower is a renowned home remedy believed to improve lactation. Breastfeeding mothers in parts of South India adorn their hair with threads of jasmine flowers due to its association with increased lactation and delayed ovulation.
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Some experts believe that the brain effects of inhaling jasmine may be linked to hormonal changes that lead to increased lactation. However, this theory remains unproven, and there is no scientific evidence directly connecting jasmine to increased lactation.
Soothing:
While some evidence confirms that jasmine oil can increase alertness and energy levels, it also appears to have a calming effect on mood and nervous activity.
In a recent experimental study, individuals with general anxiety disorder were asked to inhale aromatic jasmine oil for 5 minutes daily over a period of 10 days. Jasmine essential oil seems to significantly reduce elevated mental states and improve symptoms such as insomnia, palpitations, and irritability.
Cough Relief:
The expectorant property of aromatic jasmine oil may help you achieve a peaceful night’s sleep, even when dealing with a cough or cold. Providing relief from coughing may assist in clearing mucus from the respiratory pathways.
It may also eliminate snoring by relieving congestion in the nose and respiratory system. With jasmine essential oil in your regimen, you can steer clear of coughing and snoring throughout the night.
Uterine Protection:
This oil could be beneficial for uterine health as it activates the uterus and promotes the secretion of hormones ensuring good health and proper functioning of the organ.
It may also aid in protecting the uterus from tumors, especially after menopause, by restricting estrogen flow.