The Fragrant Note

There is so much available about the processing of this flower, but it is the historical lore I found fascinating. Jasmine essential oil is referred to as the King of the oils and Queen of the night. [Yes, Rose is still Queen of the Oils.]

Having traveled to many parts of the Middle East, I am familiar with the warm, intoxicating scent wafting softly past in the evening. Often a walk after nightfall would end even more joyously than it began as the aroma carried on the evening air helped to lift and encourage the spirit while relaxing my body.

As I was reading, I came across a story about Jasmine’s use in a harem. The intended harem favorite would be bathed in Jasmine-scented water, and then massaged with enhanced oil. All of this to increase the pleasure of the Prince. I truly believe the woman enjoyed the bathing/massage deeply too.

Divine hope is what Jasmine symbolizes in India. China says it denotes the sweetness of women. In Hindu & Muslim traditions, Jasmine is referred to as “the perfume of love”. Remember Cupid? Well, the Indian Love God (Karma) endeavors to influence the heart through the senses when he tips his arrows with Jasmine blossoms.
Susanne Fischer-Rizzi has this to say about Jasmine: “the fragrance diminishes fear, it is helpful in enhancing self-confidence and defeating pessimism. No other oil is quite as capable of changing our mood so intensely. It offers little choice other than optimism.”

If the mere scent on the air has the capacity to lift and encourage the soul, it just seems to follow that this essential oil is a “must-have” in your essential oil cabinet.