Jasmine is the symbol of Mother's Day in Thailand, due to its purity that reflects a mother's love. But if you give your mummy dearest a bunch of jasmine flowers, they will wilt the next day. Why not give something more practical and longer lasting?
PHOTO © ANNA SUBBOTINA-KONONCHUK/GETTYIMAGES/THINKSTOCK
Jasmine is not only cherished by Thais, but its wonderful soothing properties and sensual aroma have made it a favourite oil in many cultures for thousands of years. The name comes from the Persian word "yasmin" which means "a gift from God".
Apart from their meaningfulness, jasmine-fused products are great Mother's Day gifts because being a mother is a stressful, never-ending job. The beautiful scent is known to help treat severe depression - it soothes the nerves whilst restoring optimism and energy, putting your mother in a happy (or at least happier) mood. It also brings out feelings of love and emotional warmth.
Jasmine oil can help ease muscle pains and stiff limbs, so either book a treatment for her, or buy a bottle of jasmine oil and give her a much-needed massage at home. For new mummies, jasmine oil is said to help ease post-natal depression.
The flower blooms at night and fills its surroundings with soothing fragrance, so it's a natural good-night scent. After a long, tiring day, the scent can calm the body, mind and soul due to its sedative properties. It is also said to promote better and deeper sleep.
Jasmine is also valued for its skin-boosting properties. It can help improve the skin's elasticity and cell renewal, making it a good choice for mothers with stretch marks and scars. The oil is great for toning, and it is also gentle on easily irritated skin.
While there is no hard and fast scientific evidence, it is often said that jasmine should not be recommended for pregnant women. Some people with plant pollen and seasonal allergies might find they react negatively to jasmine, but so far, nobody has ever mentioned being allergic to the scent. When in doubt, play safe and get jasmine-scented candles, so that the skin is not directly exposed to jasmine oil or extract.
Jo Malone White Jasmine & Mint Body Creme is a gift of love that embodies Mother’s Day. The gentle bouquet of fresh, white jasmine blossoms, chamomile, wild mint, rose and coriander is as warm as the morning sun.
The Infinitely Loving range from SpaRitual contains Chinese jasmine that settles the mind, restoring body and spirit. Plus, the name makes it a meaningful Mother’s Day gift.
Panpuri Femme Fatale Southern Belle candle exudes a dreamy scent of clementine, cyclamen and jasmine, inspired by Gone With The Wind’s Scarlett O’Hara.
Le Jour de Chanel gives energy to the skin with jasmine extract, which stimulates natural autophagy mechanisms so that the skin is ready to work in perfect synergy with its environment.
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