Night Jasmine (Parijat)

Overview of Night Jasmine (Parijat)

Sacred fragrant shrub whose flowers bloom at night — used in Ayurveda for fever and arthritis. It has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for thousands of years, with documented uses across multiple ancient texts including the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.

Known botanically as Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, this plant belongs to the Shrubs category and is native to India, Southeast Asia. It thrives in tropical climates and is considered a moderate-growing plant.

Traditional Uses

In Ayurveda and traditional medicine, Night Jasmine (Parijat) is valued for the following applications:

• Fever — used in traditional preparations across generations
• Arthritis — used in traditional preparations across generations
• Antifungal — used in traditional preparations across generations
• Gut parasites — used in traditional preparations across generations
• Anti-inflammatory — used in traditional preparations across generations

Health Benefits

1. Fever

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight fever as a key application of Night Jasmine (Parijat). The active compounds present in the flowers, leaves, bark, seeds are responsible for this effect.

2. Arthritis

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight arthritis as a key application of Night Jasmine (Parijat). The active compounds present in the flowers, leaves, bark, seeds are responsible for this effect.

3. Antifungal

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight antifungal as a key application of Night Jasmine (Parijat). The active compounds present in the flowers, leaves, bark, seeds are responsible for this effect.

4. Gut parasites

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight gut parasites as a key application of Night Jasmine (Parijat). The active compounds present in the flowers, leaves, bark, seeds are responsible for this effect.

5. Anti-inflammatory

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight anti-inflammatory as a key application of Night Jasmine (Parijat). The active compounds present in the flowers, leaves, bark, seeds are responsible for this effect.

How to Use Night Jasmine (Parijat)

• Tea / Decoction: Boil fresh or dried flowers in water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and drink warm.
• Powder (Churna): Dry and grind into a fine powder. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon with honey or warm water.
• Paste / Poultice: Crush fresh flowers and apply directly to affected areas for external use.
• Oil Infusion: Infuse in coconut or sesame oil for topical applications.

How to Grow Night Jasmine (Parijat)

🌱 Soil & Planting

Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5). Mix compost into the planting bed for best results.

☀️ Sunlight

Most varieties require full sun (6–8 hours daily). Some may tolerate partial shade.

💧 Watering

Water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.

🌿 Care Tips

• Apply organic fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
• Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth.
• Watch for pests — treat with neem oil spray if needed.
• Harvest flowers in the morning for maximum potency.

Precautions & Contraindications

• Pregnancy & lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Drug interactions: May interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, or immunosuppressants.
• Allergies: Some individuals may be sensitive. Start with small quantities.
• Children: Use only under professional guidance for children under 12.