Jasmine, the lady of the night, blooms and is the most fragrant with the light of the moon, the darker the night the sweeter the smell. The humble flower has been around for more than a millennium gracing the heads of ancient Gods and royalty, robust ancient trade routes from Ancient Egypt to India. The use of Jasmine for offering to the divine has been around for a long time.

How did this flower become a much sought-after ingredient for the best of perfumers and leading fragrant giants? We explore the lighter and darker side of Jasmine.

The Evergreen Factor and a lucrative market

In the ancient city of Madurai in southern India, jasmine is omnipresent -- attracting buyers from some of the world's most recognizable perfumes, including J'adore by Dior and Mon Guerlain by Guerlain.

"It is one of the most expensive oils in the world," said Raja Palaniswamy, a director of Jasmine Concrete, which squeezes vast quantities of jasmine to create a few precious drops of delicious-smelling essence.

The women picking the buds earn around $1.50 a day per day approximately 4000 buds of jasmine once picked flowers are immediately sent to be sold for around 2000 INR for 1 kg  ( credit .https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/). There are many types of Jasmine for example Egyptian Jasmine is different from Indian Jasmine. India has been the leading global producer of Sambac Jasmine, with NESSO being a prominent company manufacturing jasmine concrete—a product derived from the petals through volatile solvent extraction—for over forty years. However, NESSO faces strong competition due to the high demand for jasmine in fine fragrances.

Only 35% to 40% of the national jasmine production is used for industrial purposes, including perfumery. The remaining 60-65% is utilized within India, primarily for local industries and traditional purposes.

The Journey of Jasmine

The journey of jasmine from sacred ceremonies to becoming a prized ingredient in the world's finest perfumes is a tale of transformation and allure. Perfumers covet jasmine for its unique ability to add depth, complexity, and an unmistakable floral sweetness to their creations. The flower's essential oil, extracted through a labor-intensive process, is one of the most expensive in the world, often referred to as "liquid gold."

The allure of jasmine in the fragrance industry lies not just in its scent but also in its versatility. It can evoke a range of emotions, from serene calmness to passionate intensity. Its rich, sweet aroma blends seamlessly with other notes, making it a staple in classic and contemporary perfumes. Leading fragrance giants like Chanel, Guerlain, Bvlgari, Dior, and many others have celebrated jasmine in their iconic scents, elevating it to a symbol of luxury and sophistication. 

Concerns over  Sustainability

However, the journey of jasmine isn't without its darker side. The high demand for jasmine oil has led to ethical and sustainability concerns. Small farmers often face exploitation, and the delicate flower's cultivation requires substantial resources, raising environmental concerns. Addressing these issues is crucial to ensure that the magic of jasmine continues to enchant future generations without compromising ethical standards and ecological balance.

In essence, jasmine's global craze is a blend of its historical reverence, olfactory magnificence, and ongoing efforts to sustainably harness its enchanting essence. As we continue to explore and appreciate this "lady of the night," let us also commit to preserving its legacy with respect and care.