Characteristics of Gardenia
There are over 200 different species of gardenia that are cultivated for their luscious flowers. The most well-known species is the common gardenia or Gardenia
jasminoides.
The gardenia is a bush with rich foliage and its height, depending on it
variety, ranging from 50-60 cm (dwarf varieties) to 3 meters (small
saplings). It belongs to the Erythrodanoid family. It is considered vulnerable
plant since its flowering is easily affected by its changes
temperature, dust and contact with sunlight. For smooth development
of the plant, it needs a stable place where it will be planted, out of the wind
space and in a semi-shaded place, away from the strong summer sun. The gardenia
belongs to oxyphyllous plants, such as hydrangea, camellia and azalea, ie
grows in acidic soil in a pot or greenhouse with good drainage
water. 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 the hydrodistillation method from
aromatic flowers of the plant, with the first rays of the sun, when the plant
develops the maximum amount of essential oils.

History of Gardenia
The gardenia got its name from the Scottish doctor and botanist Dr
Alexander Garden (1730-1791) who played an important role in its development
categorization of the different gardenia species.
The gardenia is one of the most beloved plants both for its beauty and its aroma! It is native to 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. Gardenia bouquets have been associated with trust, pure emotions, 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 extract in tea. It has been appreciated for its positive effect on health, its strong analgesic, aphrodisiac, antidepressant and detoxifying properties.

Components
Gardenia essential oil from the white flowers of the plant using her method
steam distillation.

Chemical composition of gardenia essential oil
Diethyl phthalate, isolongifolene, alpha-bisabolol, n-decanoic acid,
hexahexanoic acid, ethyl ester, ethylene brasylate, 9-12-octadecadienoic acid,
ethyl linoleate. acid ethyl ester, octadecanoic acid, ethyl ester,
squalene.

Instructions for use
- Pour 3 drops of gardenia essential oil into the warm relaxing foot bath before
the night's sleep.
- Menopause - Hot flashes
Combine a few drops of gardenia with jojoba oil and massage lightly
body at the start of the day.. The cool effect of gardenia will help
in reducing hot flashes and internal tension.
- Period pains
Lightly massage the abdominal area with coconut oil and a few drops
gardenia, before your period to help treat it
premenstrual syndrome (pains, tension, headaches).
- Air freshner
Instill 3-4 drops of gardenia essential oil into the special burning device and
in the wooden bales for perfuming the car.
- Combines well with jasmine, basil, honeysuckle, lavender and lilac.

Chinese medicine - Ayurveda
Gardenia in PKI is known as Shan Zhi Zi. Increases Yin energy
(feminine, internal, cool, relaxed energy) in the body and affects the
heart, lung and triple heater meridians (Sian Jiao);
Releases trapped fire, calms the spirit (Shen), moves and cools
the blood.
According to Ayurveda, gardenia expels excess pitta (fire) from the
downward facing heart. It significantly affects the balance of all 3 doshas vata – pitta – kapha. It is particularly beneficial for people with a kapha (earth) temperament, as it brings mental clarity and alertness.

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