The Benefits of Jasmine Oil

Widely used in aromatherapy, jasmine oil is a sweet-smelling substance that contains the jasmine plant's aromatic compounds. A type of essential oil, jasmine oil is thought to offer various healing effects.

In aromatherapy, inhaling jasmine oil molecules (or absorbing jasmine oil through the skin) is said to transmit messages to a brain region involved in controlling emotions. Known as the limbic system, this brain region also influences the nervous system. Aromatherapy proponents suggest that essential oils may affect a number of biological factors, including heart rate, stress levels, blood pressure, breathing, and immune function.

Jasmine oil is often touted as a natural remedy for the following conditions:

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Menstrual cramps
• Menopausal symptoms

Jasmine oil is also said to act as an aphrodisiac.

Currently, there is very little scientific support for the use of jasmine oil in the treatment of any health condition. In a small study published in 2010, however, healthy volunteers reported improvements in mood after having jasmine oil applied to their skin. And in a previous study of 52 women undergoing menopause, participants who received weekly aromatherapy massages reported a significantly greater improvement in menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes) than those who weren't massaged. (It should be noted that the aromatherapy massages involved several essential oils including lavender and rose in addition to jasmine.)

In addition, a 2009 study on rats found that inhaling the scent of linalool (a compound found in jasmine oil) reduced the activity of a number of genes that tend to be overactivated in moments of stress.

Although jasmine oil is generally considered safe, it should always be used with caution. For instance, it's important to blend jasmine oil with a carrier oil (such as jojoba, sweet almond, or avocado) before applying it to the skin.

Some individuals may experience irritation when applying jasmine oil to the skin. Jasmine oil should not be taken internally without the supervision of a health professional.

Due to the limited research, it's too soon to recommend jasmine oil as a treatment for any condition. If you're considering using it, talk to your doctor first. Keep in mind that alternative medicine should not be used as a substitute for standard care. Self-treating a condition and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences.

Disclaimer: The information contained on this site is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis or treatment by a licensed physician. It is not meant to cover all possible precautions, drug interactions, circumstance or adverse effects. You should seek prompt medical care for any health issues and consult your doctor before using alternative medicine or making a change to your regimen.