What do you love the most about jasmine? The white splendor of the flowers or the exotic smell emitted by them? We know you will choose the second one. And why not? The calming and soothing fragrance of jasmine not only provides us relief from stress but also boosts our mood instantly. But that is not all about the flower. The oil obtained from its petals has also been used as an age-old natural remedy for our overall health and appearance. This article will discuss the benefits of jasmine oil for health, skin, and hair. Stay tuned.
What is Jasmine Oil?
The common jasmine plant, scientifically known as Jasminum official, is native to Iran, but it is also found in tropical climates. Jasmine oil is a type of essential oil extracted from the petals of the white jasmine flowers. The aromatherapy properties of the oil make it a popular natural remedy in traditional Chinese medicine. According to researchers, it works by positively impacting the nervous system, which affects various biological factors, including breathing, body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, alertness, and even stress response (1). The oil helps treat depression, anxiety, emotional stress, insomnia, hormonal imbalances, PMS, menstrual cramps, chronic fatigue syndrome, infections, menopausal symptoms, etc. Besides, jasmine oil’s strong, seductive scent increases sensuality and treats low libido. Hence, it is considered one of the best natural aphrodisiacs. Jasmine oil is used in preparing sweets, desserts, and alcohol.
The sweet, romantic aroma of the flower and its oil that has been winning the heart of millions for centuries. It is a component of some of the world’s most famous perfumes including Chanel No. 5.
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Benefits of Jasmine Oil for Health
As said earlier, jasmine oil is used as an excellent natural remedy for several health problems. Here are some of the most well-researched ones to consider:
1. Relieves Depression and Anxiety
Many studies have proved the efficacy of aromatherapy in reducing depressive symptoms (2). Jasmine essential oil has also been found to work as an antidepressant and mood-booster with strong stimulating and activating effects on the brain. This improved brain activity and moods may make us feel more positive by curbing anxiety. According to the study published in Natural Product Communications, regular topical application of the oil also minimizes the signs of low energy in both physical and emotional levels.
2. Improves Alertness
Jasmine oil massage may make you more alert and vigorous by significantly enhancing your behavioral arousal. Compared to a placebo, it increases autonomic arousal activity, including body temperature, breathing rate, blood pressure (both systolic and diastolic), and blood oxygen saturation. Similarly, inhalation of jasmine oil has also been reported to stimulate our central nervous system, thereby making us more energetic and uplifted (3).
3. Fights Against Infections
The oil has been extensively studied for its potent antiviral, antibiotic, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties. It contains oleuropein (a secoiridoid glycoside) as a primary active ingredient, strengthening our body’s immunity and combating several infections (4). The antibacterial effects of jasmine oil are primarily useful in treating staph infections and candidiasis (5). A study also found that both the natural oil and its synthetic blends effectively treat one strain of E. coli (6). It may be robust against several oral microorganisms like L. casei, S. mutans, etc. too (7). You may keep your nasal passage and the respiratory system free from mucus and bacteria by inhaling jasmine oil regularly.
4. Keeps Insomnia Away
Though jasmine oil boosts your energy and keeps you alert, it may also act as a natural sedative by exhibiting a calming effect on your nerves. According to a study report, the fragrance of jasmine tea (at the lowest concentration) helps in better sleep by working on autonomic nerves and bringing down the elevated state of mind considerably. A combination of jasmine oil and lavender oil also improves symptoms like increased heart rate, palpitations, irritability, restlessness, etc. upon inhalation. (8)
5. Eases Menopausal Symptoms
When it comes to reducing the emotional and physical symptoms of menopause, jasmine oil works excellent. One study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine concluded that applying this natural remedy relieves hot flashes, pain, and depression while enhancing energy levels to a large extent (9). Opting for an aromatherapy massage with an essential oil blend prepared by combining lavender, rose, or geranium oils with jasmine oil is even better.
6. Reduces PMS Symptoms
Being a therapeutic-grade oil, jasmine oil contains phytoestrogens. These plant compounds with estrogen-like phenolic structures contribute to the hormone-balancing capacity of the oil, which helps in reducing the symptoms of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). It may correct the most common symptoms related to hormone fluctuations, including cramps, acne, headaches, nervousness, weakness, restlessness, etc., without causing any adverse side effects. (10)
7. Helps with Pregnancy
The antispasmodic properties of jasmine oil effectively reduce labor pain, stomach spasms, and even spasm cough. When diluted and used for massage, the oil increases positive thoughts and feelings with lowered levels of stress, which also helps in easing postpartum symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, muscle pain, and low energy. The galactagogues content of jasmine oil increases the production of breast milk too.
8. Enhances concentration
The stimulating and arousing qualities of jasmine oil boost our concentration naturally. As the active ingredients in it promote brain activity, the concentration power is also enhanced along with the learning and problem-solving skills. (11)
9. Acts As an Aphrodisiac
Jasmine oil helps set up the mood for romance quite quickly and naturally. Its aroma exhibits a strong stimulant effect on brain waves, which may raise blood flow in the body and help increase the sexual response. (12)
The aphrodisiac nature of jasmine oil helps in treating issues like low libido. Hence, it is also called ‘queen of the night’ sometimes. (13)
Read Also – Embrace Tangerine Essential Oil for Good Health, Hair, and Skin
Benefits of Jasmine Oil for Hair
Besides taking care of our health, jasmine oil also takes care of our hair. Check out why you should incorporate it into your daily hair care regime:
- The wonderful fragrance of jasmine oil helps us relax by soothing and calming down our nerves. It automatically keeps scalp infections, hair fall, acute hair loss, etc., at bay.
- It helps strengthen the hair from the root to the tip, making it more resilient and less prone to breakage.
- Jasmine oil has fantastic moisturizing properties. So, massaging the hair with it prevents dry, itchy scalp and dandruff efficiently.
- Being a natural solid antiseptic, jasmine oil fights all sorts of microbial infections on the scalp.
- When applied after shampooing, it helps tame frizz and unruly hair by deeply conditioning each strand.
- It leaves the hair beautifully fragrant, which lingers on even after washing.
There are many hair oils in the market that claim to have real jasmine in them. But most of them simply contain artificial jasmine perfume. Hence, it is always better to go for jasmine essential oil rather than commercial jasmine hair oil.
Read Also – 8 Benefits of Tea Tree Oil Soap (with DIY Soap-Making Recipe)
Benefits of Jasmine Oil for Skin
Jasmine oil also works wonders for the skin when used for a massage. Following are the reasons to use the oil in skincare practice:
- Jasmine oil moisturizes the skin intensely and makes it soft and supple.
- In addition, it helps regulate the amount of oil produced by oily skin, thereby keeping it grease- and shine-free.
- A mixture of jasmine oil and virgin coconut oil may prevent sensitive skin from breaking out while keeping it thoroughly moisturized.
- It helps relieve dry skin and stretch marks.
- The oil increases the elasticity of the skin and tones it up.
- Massaging the skin with jasmine oil makes it healthy and glowing.
- The antiseptic properties of jasmine oil help keep skin infections at bay.
- It has anti-inflammatory properties that help in the faster healing of scar tissues.
- A jasmine oil bath will leave you smelling out of the world every time.
Different Ways to Use Jasmine Oil
Jasmine oil can be used in various ways depending on your requirements and its dispensing methods. We have listed them down:
- Use several drops of jasmine oil in a diffuser along with other soothing oils like lavender oil or frankincense oil
- Inhale it directly from the bottle through your nose
- Apply the oil now to your skin and rub gently
- Add 3-5 drops of jasmine oil to an ounce of sweet almond oil or warmed coconut oil and use it as a massage oil
- Dilute it in a carrier oil and add the mixture to your bath water for a warm fragrant bath
- Combine the oil with your daily skincare products like body lotion, body scrub, soap, etc.
- Put a few drops of jasmine oil on your bedding or dab it on your neck for a spicy night
- Create aromatic steam in your home by pouring a few drops of jasmine oil into a bowl of hot water
- Mix lavender, orange, lime, or lemon essential oil with jasmine oil to prepare a mood-boosting perfume
- Blend 1 part of jasmine oil with 4 parts of virgin coconut oil, olive oil, or argan oil and massage your hair with it
Read Also – Satsuma Oil: Nature’s Secret for Ultimate Health, Skin, and Hair Benefits
Are There Side Effects of Jasmine Oil?
Jasmine oil has been pretty safe for aromatherapy and topical applications. It is also known to be non-irritating on the skin. But if you have sensitive skin, it is always good to dilute the oil in a carrier oil before using it to ensure that it does not lead to allergic reactions. The strong flowery smell of the oil may also seem to be overpowering to people with sensitive noses. Hence, pregnant women and nursing mothers should always consult their doctors before using this oil.
Summary:
Jasmine oil is a type of essential oil extracted from the petals of the white jasmine flowers of the common jasmine plant. The oil is widely loved for its strong, sweet, and romantic fragrance. It has also been used as a natural remedy for depression, anxiety, alertness, and insomnia. Jasmine oil also has a number of other health benefits, which include relieving PMS symptoms, easing menopausal symptoms, helping pregnancy, boosting concentration, etc. It is also quite good for our skin and hair. Preparing mood-lifting perfumes with jasmine essential oil is also considered as an age-old practice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Jasmine Oil Good for Your Face?
Yes, jasmine oil is an excellent natural skincare product that can turn your delicate facial skin lighter, brighter, and flawless over time. It can also be used as a natural primer for your makeup or combined with your foundation.
How Do You Make Jasmine Oil?
If you want to prepare jasmine massage oil at home, add a cup of fresh jasmine petals to a cup of jojoba oil and store the mixture in a glass jar. Make sure that you cover it with an airtight lid and place it by the window. This will let the flower petals get infused into the oil. Shake the jar at least once every day to facilitate the process. Your jasmine oil will be ready to use in 2 weeks.
Is Jasmine Tea Good for Skin?
Jasmine tea is rich in several skin-friendly components, which help soak up excess sebum from the skin and combat acne-causing bacteria with their antimicrobial properties. Applying jasmine tea also helps maintain the natural pH level of the skin.
Is Jasmine Tea High in Caffeine?
Pure herbal jasmine tea contains no caffeine. However, if it is combined with black tea, the concoction will be high in caffeine.
Can I Ingest Jasmine Oil?
No. Jasmine oil is meant only for topical applications and aromatherapy treatments. Consuming it may prove to be highly toxic.
References:
- “Stimulating Effect of Aromatherapy Massage with Jasmine Oil“, Researchgate.net
- “The Effectiveness of Aromatherapy for Depressive Symptoms: A Systematic Review“, Hindawi.com
- “The Effects of Jasmine Oil Inhalation on Brain Wave Activities and Emotions“, TCI-ThaiJo.org
- “Antiviral Efficacy Against Hepatitis B Virus Replication of Oleuropein Isolated from Jasminum officinale L. var. grandiflorum“, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Antimicrobial Activity of Blended Essential Oil Preparation“, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Antibacterial Potential Assessment of Jasmine Essential Oil Against E. Coli“, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Antimicrobial Activity of Jasmine Oil Against Oral Microorganisms“, IOPScience.iop.org
- “Sedative Effects of the Jasmine Tea Odor and (R)-(-)-Linalool, One of Its Major Odor Components, on Autonomic Nerve Activity and Mood States“, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Aromatherapy Massage Affects Menopausal Symptoms in Korean Climacteric Women: A Pilot-Controlled Clinical Trial“, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Aromatherapy Massage Affects Menopausal Symptoms in Korean Climacteric Women: a Pilot-Controlled Clinical Trial“, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- “Actions of Essential Oils on the Central Nervous System: An Updated Review“, SemanticScholar.org
- “Human Male Sexual Response to Olfactory Stimuli“, AANOS.org
- “Which Teas are Best for YOUR Health? Jasmine Boosts Your Libido, Lemon and Ginger Ease Morning Sickness, While Nettle Helps Combat Hayfever, Expert Reveals“, DailyMail.co.uk
