The Health Benefits of Jasmine Sambac
Jasmine sambac has been known for its abundant health benefits and medicinal uses for thousands of years. Although native to Southeast Asia, this flowering evergreen has been used by people around the world. The ancient Egyptians and Greeks used extracted jasmine oil in aromatherapy as a stimulant and aphrodisiac. Indian medicine used it to soothe slow-healing sores. The Chinese have even used it to flavor tea.
Some varieties of jasmine sambac are known as ‘Maid of Orleans’, ‘Belle of India’, and ‘Grand Duke of Tuscany’. No matter the name, it offers wonderful health and medicinal applications. With so many uses, it’s no wonder its original name has remained – ‘Jasmine’ means ‘a gift from god.’
Traditional Uses of Jasmine Sambac Supported by Science
Modern research has supported many of the traditional claims regarding its healing properties. Jasmine oil has proven to increase alertness and improve mood while supporting healthy blood flow and blood-oxygen levels. [1] The aroma of jasmine has even been shown to be as effective as sedatives without any of the unpleasant side effects such as depression, dizziness, or impaired motor function. [2] Jasmine has also been found to have a toxic effects against some harmful organisms. [3]
Scientists have identified several active compounds in Jasmine. They include flavonoids and coumarins, which promote vascular health, cardiac glycosides which aid heart function, and phenolics, which help the body to detoxify. [4] Based on these findings, it is easy to understand why jasmine has been treasured through the millennia.
Jasmine Sambac for Natural Skin Care
Jasmine has also been used as an anti-aging remedy. Its effects go beyond good, piece of mind and natural relaxation. Jasmine has been attributed with promoting healthy, smooth skin.
It makes sense. Stress and anxiety restrict blood flow and reduce blood-oxygen levels, limiting the body’s ability to remove toxins. Environmental pollutants introduce even more toxins into our bodies. These toxins damage tissue and skin.
As noted, the aroma of Jasmine has been proven to soothe, encourage a restful state and reduce stress. The natural compounds naturally support healthy blood flow and higher blood-oxygen levels. Combine these and jasmine presents a natural way to aid the body’s efforts to eliminate toxins and promote youthful looking skin. For that reason, Global Healing has included jasmine sambac as an ingredient in our skin care product, Glow.
References (4)
- Hongratanaworakit T. Stimulating effect of aromatherapy massage with jasmine oil. Nat Prod Commun. 2010 Jan;5(1):157-62.
- The Telegraph. Smell of jasmine 'as calming as valium'. (last accessed 2013-07-08)
- Rath CC, Devi S, Dash SK, Mishra RK. Antibacterial potential assessment of jasmine essential oil against e. Coli. Indian J Pharm Sci. 2008 Mar-Apr;70(2):238-41. doi: 10.4103/0250-474X.41465.
- Kunhachan P, Banchonglikitkul C, Kajsongkram T, Khayungarnnawee A, Leelamanit W. Chemical Composition, Toxicity and Vasodilatation Effect of the Flowers Extract of Jasminum sambac (L.) Ait. "G. Duke of Tuscany". Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:471312. doi: 10.1155/2012/471312. Epub 2012 Mar 26.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
