Gardenia, pharmaceutical & cosmetics essential oil

Characteristics of Gardenia

There are more than 200 different species of gardenia that are cultivated for their fragrant flowers. The best-known species is the common gardenia, or Gardenia
jasminoides.
Gardenia is a shrub with rich foliage and its height, depending on the
variety, ranges from 50–60 cm (dwarf varieties) up to 3 meters (small
trees). It belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is considered a delicate
plant, as its flowering is easily affected by changes in
temperature, dust and exposure to sunlight. For the plant to grow properly,
it needs a fixed spot where it is planted, in a sheltered
location and in semi-shade, away from the intense summer sun. Gardenia
belongs to acid-loving plants, such as hydrangea, camellia and azalea, meaning it
thrives in acidic soil in a pot or greenhouse with good water
drainage. It blooms twice a year, at the beginning of summer and early
autumn.

Gardenia has the ability to repel harmful insects and for this reason
it is often planted at the entrance of greenhouses.
Gardenia essential oil is extracted by steam distillation from the
fragrant flowers of the plant, with the first rays of the sun, at the time when the plant
develops its essential oils to the maximum.

History of Gardenia

The gardenia was named after the Scottish physician and botanist Dr
Alexander Garden (1730–1791), who played an important role in the development of the
classification of the different species of gardenia.
Gardenia is one of the most beloved plants, both for its beauty and its fragrance! It originates from Africa, Japan, Korea and China. Since ancient times, its flowers were offered as a sign of respect and appreciation, and its decoration was essential in wedding ceremonies. Bouquets of gardenias have been associated with trust, pure feelings, inner renewal and hope.

The use of gardenia has a long history in Asian cultures.
Specifically, it has been used for many centuries in the production of perfumes,
soaps and candles, as well as in herbal medicine and aromatherapy in various forms, e.g. as an ingredient in massage oil or as an extract in tea. It has been valued for its positive effect on health and its strong analgesic, aphrodisiac, antidepressant and detoxifying properties.

Ingredients

Gardenia essential oil from the white flowers of the plant obtained by
steam distillation.

Chemical composition of gardenia essential oil

Diethyl phthalate, isolongifolene, alpha-bisabolol, n-decanoic acid,
hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester, brassylic ethylene, 9-12-octadecadienoic acid,
linoleic ethyl ester, ethyl ester of acid, octadecanoic acid, ethyl ester,
squalene.

Instructions for use

- Add 3 drops of gardenia essential oil to a warm, relaxing foot bath before bedtime.
- Menopause – Hot flashes
Combine a few drops of gardenia with jojoba oil and gently massage the body at the start of the day. The cooling effect of gardenia will help reduce hot flashes and inner tension.
- Period pains
Gently massage the abdominal area with coconut oil and a few drops of gardenia before your period to help manage premenstrual syndrome (pain, tension, headaches).
- Room fragrance
Place 3–4 drops of gardenia essential oil in an aroma burner and on wooden balls to scent the car.
- Blends well with jasmine, basil, honeysuckle, lavender and lilac.

Chinese medicine - Ayurveda

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, gardenia is known as Shan Zhi Zi. It increases Yin energy
(feminine, internal, cool, relaxed energy) in the body and acts on the
meridians of the heart, lungs and triple burner (San Jiao).
It releases trapped fire, calms the spirit (Shen), moves and cools
the blood.
According to Ayurveda, gardenia expels excess pitta (fire) from the
heart in a downward direction. It significantly affects the balance of all three doshas vata – pitta – kapha. It is particularly beneficial for people with a kapha (earth) constitution, as it brings mental clarity and alertness.

Useful tips

- The use of gardenia essential oil should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by children.
- Essential oils are intended for external use.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth and always use diluted in a carrier oil.