Common Jasmine (Jasminum sambac)

Common Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) is a member of the Oleaceae family, native to Southeast Asia, Indian Subcontinent, and Indonesian Archipelago. Traditionally, its flowers, leaves, and bark have been used for infusions, oil infusions, and decoctions.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, sedative, and tonic actions, and has a long history of use in ayurvedic medicine, traditional chinese medicine, and european herbal medicine.

Common Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Common Jasmine (Jasminum sambac) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Common Jasmine
Scientific Name	Jasminum sambac
Plant Family	Oleaceae
Genus	Jasminum
Species	sambac
Native Range	Southeast Asia, Indian Subcontinent, Indonesian Archipelago
Plant Parts Used	Flowers, Leaves, Bark
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Sedative, Tonic
Primary Traditional Systems	Ayurvedic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, European Herbal Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Infusion, Oil Infusion, Decoction

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Jasminum sambac
Common Name: Common Jasmine
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Jasmine Flower, Sambac Jasmine, Arabian Jasmine
Plant Family: Oleaceae
Genus: Jasminum

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 1 to 2 meters.
Leaves: Simple leaves with dark green upper surface and lighter green lower surface, featuring prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: White flowers with five petals arranged in umbellate clusters, actinomorphic symmetry, and prominent yellow staminodes.
Stems: Elongated, erect growth habit, opposite branching pattern, glabrous surface, four-sided cross-section, prominently veined epidermis.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

Ayurvedic Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine
European Herbal Medicine
Japanese Kampo Medicine

Historical Preparation Methods

Infusion
Oil Infusion
Decoction
Poultice

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: In herbal literature, noted as a moderate anti-inflammatory, in inflammation-focused discussions.
Sedative: Commonly referenced as a gentle sedative, in rest-related herbal contexts.
Tonic: Traditionally described as a calming tonic, for long-term use contexts.
Antispasmodic: In herbal texts, considered a soothing antispasmodic, for cramp-focused discussions.

Active Compounds

Essential Oil: Volatile plant-derived substances commonly present in leaves and flowers.
Flavonoid: A widely occurring class of plant polyphenols found in leaves, flowers, and fruits.
Phenolic Acid: Organic acids commonly occurring as part of plant secondary metabolism.
Coumarin: Organic compounds biosynthesized as part of plant secondary metabolism.

Modern Research Overview

Modern scientific investigation of this plant has focused on identifying its chemical constituents and examining their properties in controlled research settings. Comprehensive study summaries will be incorporated into this section as additional sources are reviewed.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: General precautions have been noted regarding the use of this herb.
Contraindications: Reports outlining specific contraindications for this herb are limited.
Allergies: Reports of allergic reactions to this herb are not well documented in available sources.
Drug Interactions: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb interacts with pharmaceutical drugs.
Toxicity: Toxic effects associated with this herb have not been well documented.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: There is insufficient evidence to determine the safety of this herb during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Water is poured over plant material and allowed to steep before straining.
Decoction: Plant material is simmered in water to extract compounds from tougher parts.
Poultice: A topical preparation made by applying softened plant material externally.
Capsule: Capsules contain measured amounts of dried, ground plant material.
Tincture: Tinctures are liquid extracts produced through alcoholic maceration.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates moderate moisture fluctuations.