Jasmine Flower
Also known as: Jasminum grandiflorum, Jasmine flower, Jasmine tea flower, Jasminum
Overview
Jasmine flower, scientifically known as Jasminum grandiflorum, is a botanical extract derived from the fragrant flowers of the jasmine plant. It is traditionally used in teas and herbal medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anxiolytic properties. The flower contains bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and polysaccharides, which are believed to contribute to its health benefits. Preclinical studies suggest that jasmine flower extracts may help reduce inflammation markers and exhibit antioxidant activity. While it has been used traditionally for anxiety relief, clinical data supporting this use are limited. Jasmine flower is available in various forms, including extracts, teas, and as a component in dietary supplements. Research on jasmine flower is still emerging, with most studies being preclinical or conducted on animals, highlighting the need for more human clinical trials to confirm its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
Jasmine flower exhibits several potential benefits, primarily supported by preclinical and animal studies. It demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects by reducing inflammation markers in animal models, with studies showing a 30-64% reduction in ear edema and inflammatory enzymes in mice. Its antioxidant and hypoglycemic effects are attributed to polysaccharides found in jasmine tea, showing promise in preclinical settings. Traditionally, it has been used for its anxiolytic properties, though clinical evidence is limited. While animal studies suggest improvements in meat quality and flavor when jasmine flower residue is added to the diet of goats, these findings have limited direct implications for human health. The lack of robust human clinical trials means that population-specific benefits and precise effect sizes remain undefined.
How it works
Jasmine flower's mechanism of action primarily involves the inhibition of inflammatory pathways, including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling. These pathways are crucial in the body's inflammatory response. Additionally, jasmine flower modulates immune response and oxidative stress pathways, potentially influencing glucose metabolism. Its known molecular targets include the COX-2 enzyme and inhibitor of kappa-B kinase (IKK). The absorption and bioavailability of its active compounds, such as flavonoids and polysaccharides, are not well-characterized, but they likely have moderate bioavailability. Further research is needed to fully understand the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of jasmine flower constituents.
Side effects
The safety profile of jasmine flower is not well-established in humans due to limited clinical data. Animal studies have not reported significant adverse effects, but this does not guarantee the same in humans. Common side effects are currently undocumented in controlled human studies, and uncommon or rare side effects remain unknown. Drug interactions are not well-studied, so caution is advised when using jasmine flower with anti-inflammatory or hypoglycemic medications. There are no established contraindications, but due to insufficient data, use in pregnant or lactating women and children is not recommended. Overall, more research is needed to comprehensively assess the safety of jasmine flower supplementation.
Dosage
Due to the limited human clinical trials, there is no established minimum effective dose, optimal dosage range, or maximum safe dose for jasmine flower supplementation. Animal studies have used extracts at concentrations of 100 mg/mL to achieve anti-inflammatory effects. Timing considerations for dosage are currently unknown. Jasmine flower is available in various forms, including extracts (ethanol, petroleum ether, ethyl acetate, n-butanol), whole flower, and residue forms, but form-specific recommendations are lacking. The absorption factors and required cofactors for jasmine flower are also unknown. Until more data are available, it is difficult to provide specific dosing guidelines.
FAQs
Is jasmine flower effective for inflammation?
Animal studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects, but human evidence is lacking. More research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
Can jasmine flower help with anxiety?
Traditional use and some preclinical data support anxiolytic effects, but clinical confirmation is needed. Consult with a healthcare provider for anxiety management.
Is it safe to consume jasmine flower supplements?
No adverse effects reported in animal studies; however, human safety data are insufficient. Exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before use.
How long before effects appear?
Unknown in humans; animal models show acute effects within hours to days. Human studies are needed to determine the time course of effects.
Does jasmine flower interact with medications?
No documented interactions, but caution is advised, especially with anti-inflammatory or hypoglycemic medications. Consult with a healthcare provider.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1145841/full – This animal study found that dietary jasmine flower residue improved meat tenderness, increased ω-3 PUFA content, and enhanced flavor in goats. The study suggests that jasmine contains flavonoids with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, contributing to these improvements. However, it is important to note that this study was conducted on animals and may not directly translate to human health benefits.
- https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1934578X20917498 – This animal study demonstrated that jasmine flower extracts reduced TPA-induced ear edema in mice by 30.8-64.1%. The extracts also decreased inflammatory cells and enzymes (COX-2, IKK), with effects comparable to dexamethasone. While the study provides evidence for anti-inflammatory properties, it is important to consider that it was conducted in an animal model and may not directly translate to human outcomes.
- https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/80/6/1723/6470525 – This systematic review and meta-analysis focuses on hibiscus, a related botanical, and its anti-inflammatory effects, providing context for understanding potential botanical anti-inflammatory properties. While not directly about jasmine flower, it highlights the broader research landscape of botanical supplements and their potential health benefits. It is included to provide a broader perspective on botanical anti-inflammatory effects.
- https://sciforschenonline.org/journals/nutrition-food/article-data/NFTOA182/NFTOA182.pdf – This research paper discusses the nutritional and medicinal properties of jasmine flower, highlighting its potential health benefits. It covers various aspects of jasmine flower, including its chemical composition and traditional uses. The paper emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand and validate the health benefits of jasmine flower.
