Botanical Overview
Yellow Jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens) is a flowering plant in the Loganiaceae family. Traditional medicine systems have documented several valuable applications for this species, supported by its observed therapeutic effects. This species belongs to the Loganiaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
It has a number of common names including yellow jessamine or confederate jessamine or jasmine, Carolina jasmine or jessamine, evening trumpetflower, gelsemium and woodbine.
Family Context
The Loganiaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Nux-Vomica — 34 documented uses
- Indian Pink — 8 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Yellow Jessamine has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and others.
Traditional Uses
Yellow Jessamine has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and pain and inflammation, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Ache(Stomach)
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Asthma
- Cough
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Pain and inflammation.
- Anodyne
- Neuralgia
- Rheumatism
For pain and inflammation, preparations are applied both topically as compresses and taken internally. A warm poultice draws blood to the area and promotes healing, while internal preparations address systemic inflammation.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 22 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities
- Tannin: astringent compounds that tighten tissues and resist infection