Jasmine (common) The National flower of Pakistan

Jasmine (common) is the National flower of Islamic Republic of Pakistan .In Urdu language it is called Chambeili.  The floral wreath surrounding the “State Emblem of Pakistan” represents the floral wreath of jasmine shrubs.

Jasmine’s Binomial name is Jasminum officinale. Jasminum officinale (Common Jasmine, Poet's Jasmine, Jessamine) is a species of jasmine, in the family Oleaceae, famous for its scent.

 Scientific classification:

|     Kingdom: Plantae

|     (unranked): Angiosperms

|     (unranked): Eudicots

|     (unranked): Asterids

|     Order: Lamiales

|     Family: Oleaceae

|     Genus: Jasminum

|     Species: J. officinale

Jasmine has over 200 species. Jasmine is a flowering shrub in the olive family. Jasmine is indigenous to warm climates throughout Asia, Europe and Africa. Some types of jasmine are evergreen, while others are deciduous (their leaves fall off in autumn), and they flower in late spring or early summer.

Jasmine plants are usually up to 3 meters high and 2 meters wide. Jasmine is a climbing vine with oval and shiny, rich green leaves. The leaves have five to nine leaflets, each up to 2½ inches long.   Jasmine flowers grow in clusters and have five or six 1-inch white or yellow petals. It has small white star-shaped flowers.

The plant flowers from April to September. Plant jasmine seeds at least eight feet apart in the late summer through late autumn. The plants will need at least four hours of direct sunlight daily, a lot of water, and sandy loam soil Jasmine is spread by cuttings of nearly ripe wood in summer. The soil should be kept moist but well drained for optimum growth. Frequent prune is required to grow it as a shrub of desired size. Pruning also helps keep an abundance of flowers, since flowers are produced on new wood. It grows in full sun to partial shade.

uses

v     Jasmine is also used as an essential oil in aromatherapy. It is specifically used in dermatology as either an antiseptic or anti-inflammatory agent

v     Jasmine absolute is known as the 'King of Oils', and its heavy, sweet scent is loved by most people.

v     It is also used as an aphrodisiac, for brain stimulant, calming, restoring balance and confidence, anti-depressive, and soothes headaches

v     The aroma of Jasmine is described as calming and soothing without being soporific, and is indicated for depression and stress - as well as some respiratory conditions. It is indicated for sensitive skin conditions too.

v     The fragrant jasmine odor can be extracted and is one of the most widely used scents in the making of perfume.

v     Jasmine is used for tea.

Jasmine flowers are popular in gardens, as houseplants, and for use in cut flower arrangements The Jasmine flower releases its fragrance at night after the sun has set and especially when the moon is waxing towards fullness, thus it is associated with soothing peaceful night-time moods Jasmine flowers are traditional hair adornments across southern Asia. Many women wear garlands of Jasmine flowers in their hair