Jasmine

Identity

Common Name

Jasmine

Scientific Name

Jasminum sambac

Botanical Family

Oleaceae

Native Region

Himalayan foothills to Southeast Asia

Cultivation Regions

China, India, Persia/Iran, Southeast Asia

Plant Parts Used

Flowers

Synonyms

Arabian Jasmine, Maid of Orleans, Pikake

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free (when pure; jasmine tea blends contain green tea caffeine)

A climbing or scrambling evergreen vine with glossy oval pointed dark green leaves and clusters of waxy white star-shaped intensely fragrant flowers that open at night; the flowers are the part used for scenting tea.

Historical Background

Jasmine has perfumed Chinese tea and Persian gardens for over a millennium, its night-blooming white blossoms layered over green tea leaves to create the celebrated jasmine tea of the Song dynasty and beyond. Brewed alone, its delicate floral cup is a symbol of purity, elegance, and calm.

Earliest recorded uses: Cultivated in China and Persia for over 1,500 years; scenting tea since the Song dynasty.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Sweet, floral, heady, exotic

Tea Information

Research Summary

Jasmine has a long tradition as a calming, fragrant tea. Preclinical work shows antioxidant and mild relaxing activity, but clinical evidence is limited and it is not a treatment for anxiety, depression, or any disease.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources