Jasmine

(jasminum officinale)

Sometimes called poet’s jasmine, this vine-like plant with its captivating scent is native to warm parts of the eastern hemisphere.  It can be grown outdoors in the southern United States, but must be taken indoors in winter in cold weather areas.  The name is derived from the Persian yasmin, and the summer jasmine of our gardens is a species native to Persia and northern India.  When it was introduced to Europe in the mid-sixteenth century, it was grafted onto a hardier Spanish variety.  Many think the scent of jasmine arouses erotic instincts, and a few drops of jasmine oil, massaged on the body along with almond oil are believed to overcome frigidity.  The essential oil of jasmine is used in the perfume industry, and the herb is grown extensively near canes and grass in the south of France.  In India, jasmine is believed a remedy for snakebite.  An infusion of the leaves is thought to alleviate eye problems.

Part used for tea: flowers.

Taste: fragrant, sweet.

By infusion: 1 teaspoon of dried flowers, or 3 teaspoons of fresh flowers, covered with 1 cup of boiling water and steeped to taste.  Because of the euphoria aroused by jasmine’s distinctive scent, it’s hard to tell if it is the taste or the odor of this tea that makes it so delightful.

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