Jasmine opens only at night when temperatures are lower, allowing the plant to release its beautiful scent. It must be picked early in the morning when the flower is still tightly closed. After the flowers are picked they are stored in a cool place for later use.
The flowers are used for many things. In China, they are used to make jasmine tea. The process requires that tea leaves and jasmine petals are blended together in machines that control temperature and humidity. After several hours the tea absorbs the flavor and aroma of the blossoms, resulting in a delicious combination. If you have ever dined in a chinese cafe, I'm sure you have tasted this wonderful beverage.
Much to my surprised there exists a jasmine syrup, widely known in France and used in the United States to flavor scones and marshmallows.
Jasmine essential oil is highly prized because of the sheer number of blossoms required to produce a small amount of oil. Blossoms picked after nightfall are laid out on cotton clothes soaked in olive oil. This mixture is allowed to rest for several days, extracting the true jasmine scent. The essential oil is produce in Egypt, China and Morocco.
Jasmine is also culturally significant in many countries, below are just a few examples.
- It is the national flower of Tunisia and Pakistan, it represents the city of Damascus in Syria.
- It is the Mother's symbol in Thailand.
- In the Philippines it is strung on garlands for religious ceremonies and in Indonesia is an important wedding symbol.
- Throughout India jasmine is cultivated in gardens and pots, is used in a variety of important ceremonies. The beautiful blossom is also worn as hair adornments by women.
Soaps, lotions and perfumes are well known for the irresistible and mysterious scent of jasmine blossom.
With its rich and wonderful history it is easy to understand why the world has been enchanted by jasmine for centuries.
