Jasmine , Indian Flower

Jasmine is a popular flower which is available all through the world. It is especially a flower of the tropical and warm temperate regions of the world. This fragrant flower is believed to have originated in the Himalayas in western China. The flower has reached India through cultivation. The origin to the name of this flower is Persian. These flowers are also known as Jessamine (Jasminum). They are the genus of shrubs and vines in the Family Oleaceae. They come in 200 species and are white in most species; with some species being yellow flowered. The flower bears the common name `jasm` which is often given to unrelated plants with pale, sweetly-scented flowers and dark green leaves, such as Confederate or star jasmine, it is also called Gardenia jasminoides (Cape jasmine), Night blooming jasmine and (Carolina jasmine) In Sanskrit, it is called Mallika. Other popular names by which the flower is admired in India are Moghra, Kundumalligai and Arabian Jasmine.

The majority of species of Jasmine grow as climbers on other plants or on structures. The leaves can be either evergreen or deciduous, and are opposite in most species. The leaf shape is simple, trifoliate or pinnate with up to nine leaflets. Jasmine flowers are generally white, although some species have yellow flowers. Unlike most genera in the Oleaceae which have four corolla `petals`, jasmines often have five or six lobes. They are often strongly and sweetly scented. Flowering of Jasmine is generally done in spring or summer in most species, but in a few species, notably J. nudiflorum, are done in winter on the bare branches of deciduous species.

Jasmine is grown almost in all the parts of India. It is widely grown in the Nagarhole National Park and also cultivated at Pangala, in Karnataka. The flower has numerous uses. The essential oil extracted from the flower is used as cosmetics and in perfumes. The oil also finds importance as a calmative with relaxing properties. The flowers are worn by women in their hair in southern and Southeast Asia. The flower is believed to have medicinal and other popular uses. The jasmine flowers remove intestinal worms and are useful in treating ulcers, vesicles, boils, skin diseases as well as eye disorders.

Jasmine is such a flower that has cultural importance too. In India, the Jasmine plant is related to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The flowers are used in the religious offerings. In addition to that the jasmine flowers have significance in wedding ceremonies too. The flowers are essential for daily consumption also. These sweet-smelling flowers have a refreshing effect on the mind and soul of a human being.