There are more than 200 species of jasmine, with more than 40 found in India. The herb is also widely cultivated throughout the Mediterranean, the Middle East and Southeast Asia for its fragrant oil. Producing a pound of absolute requires nearly 2,000 pounds of flowers, which are hand-picked between dawn and mid-morning when the volatile oil concentration is highest.
Jasmine absolute is used in massage and in aromatherapy. The scent is associated with a calming effect and the restoration of balance.