Jasmine Tea Plant

Jasmine tea is made from tea leaves and jasmine flowers.

Jasmine has been cultivated for centuries for a variety medicinal purposes. Ancient Chinese dynasties were the first to mix jasmine flowers with other tea varieties for flavor.

Identification

Jasmine is a creeping shrub-like plant with tubular, waxy-white flowers, which are used in tea. True jasmine leaves are shiny, which distinguishes the Jasminum officiale plant from false jasmine or yellow jasmine (Gelsemium sempervirens), which has a similar fragrance but contains toxic alkaloids that are poisonous and can be fatal.

Significance

Tea is scented from the jasmine plant by placing jasmine flowers next to tea leaves in order for the tea to capture the essential oils of the jasmine. Green tea was first scented with jasmine flowers in 13th century China.

History

Jasmine has been cultivated since 1000 B.C. The plant was not introduced in England until the 1600s. It is thought to have originated in India.

Uses

Jasmine plants yield 1 oz. of oil for nearly 40 pounds of harvested flowers. Jasmine oil is highly prized and useful for ailments, ranging from depression to menopausal disorders. Jasmine is also one of the main fragrances used in perfumes.

Potential

Jasmine tea can also be made by placing fresh or dried flowers in hot water for 15 minutes. After steeping, the flowers release their oils into the water to create a delicious floral beverage.

References

• Annie's Remedy: Jasmine
• TopTropicals.com: Jasminum Sambac---History and Facts