Jasmin

Jasminum grandiflorum

Physical Characteristics

Jasminum grandiflorum is an evergreen Climber growing to 2.5 m (8ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

East tropical Africa - Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda; through Arabia to the Indian subcontinent and western China.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Oil Edible Uses: Oil Jasmine absolute (the essential oil) and concrete (the waxy solid containing the essential oil) are used as additives in food and tobacco[310 ]. Jasmine flowers are a popular flavouring in tea in countries such as China and India[310 ].

Medicinal Uses

Jasmine oil or essence is used medicinally. It is said to stimulate the reproductive system as an aphrodisiac and as a muscle relaxant, by warming and softening nerves and tendons[310 ]. An infusion of the flowers is used to relieve coughs[348 ]. The flowers are also used to treat headaches (external application?[K ]) weak eyes and scorpion stings[240 ]. Applied externally, an infusion of the flowers is used to treat skin diseases[240 ]. The leaves are chewed as a remedy for ulcers or eruptions in the mouth[240 ]. The fresh juice of the plant is applied to corns[240 ]. Mixed with oil, it is poured into the ears as a treatment for otorrhoea[240 ].

Known Hazards

None known