New Delhi: In today’s world, humans are facing two major health challenges: increasing resistance to medicines and oxidative stress caused by free radicals in the body. Research by the Patanjali Research Institute has shown that the jasmine plant, traditionally used in Ayurveda, could be an important solution to both these problems.
According to the study, jasmine has strong antioxidant properties and can help fight bacteria and fungi that have become resistant to modern medicines.
How jasmine helps
The body naturally produces free radicals through oxygen. While some free radicals are necessary, an excess can damage cells, break DNA, harm proteins, and affect fats. This leads to serious problems like cancer, heart diseases, and early aging.
Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals, and jasmine is found to be rich in them.
Research found that elements like tannins, alkaloids, phenolics, and flavonoids in jasmine plants help control bacterial and fungal infections. They also reduce the damage caused by oxidative stress.
Medicinal properties of jasmine
The jasmine plant belongs to the Oleaceae family, and about 197 species are found worldwide.
While jasmine flowers are loved for their fragrance, their medicinal benefits are equally important:
- Flowers are used for treating skin diseases, boils, and eye disorders.
- Leaves have shown potential in treating diseases like breast cancer.
- Roots help in regulating menstrual issues.
Different species and their uses
Some common species of jasmine and their benefits include:
- Jasminum officinale – Pain relief, antidepressant, and diuretic.
- Jasminum grandiflorum – Helps in cough, hysteria, and uterine diseases.
- Jasminum sambac – Acts as an antiseptic, aphrodisiac, and is helpful in colds and coughs.
Research findings
Tests showed that:
- The acetone extract of Jasminum azoricum leaves had a strong effect against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria.
- The methanol extract of Jasminum syringifolium worked well against Shigella flexneri.
- The extract of Jasminum brevilobum was highly effective even in very small amounts against bacteria.
Jasmine naturally grows in tropical and subtropical regions like India, China, and Pacific Islands. It is also cultivated in Europe, America, and Caribbean countries.
