The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Gardenia
The Power of Scent: Essential Oils

ORIGINS

Native to China, Gardenia is a genus of tropical shrubs and trees with glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers. The oil, which has a sweet, floral scent, comes from the flowers of Gardenia jasminoides, but the roots and leaves also have medicinal uses.

HISTORY/LORE

This flower is named after Alexander Garden (1730—1791), a Scottish physician, botanist, and zoologist. It was previously, and is sometimes still, known as Cape jasmine. Dried gardenia flowers have long been used in Chinese herbal medicine to treat anxiety, draw heat away from the body, and reduce swelling.

USES

Healing Uses: This essential oil can be used as an anti-inflammatory, an antidepressant, or a sedative. It treats tension and headaches, and may reduce symptoms of menopause. It can also ease dizziness. Added to bathwater, it has a relaxing effect and prevents insomnia. As an inhalation, gardenia essential oil eases respiratory issues, including sinus infections. Applied topically, it treats wounds and reduces swelling.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Gardenia essential oil fosters love and harmony and works to improve mood. Add it to bathwater to ease a troubled mind. Use it with massage to bring peace and serenity. This oil stimulates the heart chakra and can also be used as an aphrodisiac, particularly in women.