by Kelly A. Mello

Created on: May 08, 2007   Last Updated: May 09, 2007

Jasmine is a beautiful flower that is native to tropical and warm temperate regions of the old world. They are usually white, with a few species having a yellowish color. This flower is revered mostly for its smell. They are a gorgeous addition to gardens lucky enough to be able to sustain the plant. But aside from the intoxicating aroma, the jasmine has other uses which can be implemented in the kitchen.

You may have had or heard of jasmine tea, for example. It is actually made from Green or Pouchong (Chinese Green) tea leaves, but uses jasmine to provide a relaxing scent while drinking it. Some people claim that the daily consumption of Jasmine tea is effective in preventing certain cancers.

Oil that is extracted from jasmine can also provide an extra taste to recipes.

Other uses for jasmine that you might find useful include:

Perfumes
Scented and therapeutic oils
A cure for mouth ulcers
An ointment for corns
Treats viral and bacterial infections
Its antidepressant, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, sedative and uterine properties

As you can see, jasmine is not just for looking at. Though it is a very beautiful flower, the properties of jasmine can be useful too. Think of that the next time you take a whiff of this extraordinary gift from Mother Nature.

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