Crepe Jasmine (Tabernaemontana divaricata) is an evergreen shrub native to South Asia with a long history of use in traditional medicine systems. This history is now driving modern scientific interest in its extract. Its rising popularity is linked to the discovery of various biologically active compounds, suggesting a potential for applications beyond its traditional uses. The investigation aims to understand the science behind its historical benefits and explore its potential in contemporary health and beauty products.
Defining Crepe Jasmine Extract
Crepe Jasmine is a tropical shrub belonging to the Apocynaceae family, recognized for its glossy green leaves and fragrant white flowers. The extract is a concentrated preparation derived from various parts of the plant, including the leaves, roots, bark, and flowers. The specific part used depends on the desired outcome, as the concentration of active compounds varies throughout the plant.
The extract is created by subjecting crushed plant material to a solvent, such as water or an alcohol like ethanol or methanol, which dissolves the plant’s phytochemicals. This process isolates diverse chemical components, including alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, from the bulk of the plant matter. The resulting concentrated liquid or powder is what constitutes the Crepe Jasmine extract used in research and commercial products.
Traditional and Folk Medicine Uses
The application of Tabernaemontana divaricata has been documented for centuries within traditional medical practices across Asia, particularly in Ayurveda and various forms of folk medicine. Traditional preparations involved using the plant to help manage fever, reduce inflammation, and alleviate localized pain.
Specific historical applications include topical use of the extract or paste for skin conditions, such as sores, and for providing relief from the pain associated with conditions like rheumatism. Furthermore, it was employed in treating eye infections, stomach issues, and as a neuro-tonic to help improve memory. These are historical, unverified applications passed down through generations and do not represent modern medical endorsements.
Key Active Compounds and Scientific Research
Scientific investigation into Crepe Jasmine extract has focused on its rich phytochemical profile, which includes several classes of compounds responsible for its biological activity. The plant is particularly abundant in indole alkaloids, which are nitrogen-containing organic molecules that often exhibit pharmacological effects.
Among the most studied alkaloids are coronaridine and ibogamine. Coronaridine has been linked to anti-inflammatory and analgesic (pain-relieving) properties in preliminary studies. Other compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, are also present and are recognized for their robust antioxidant activity, which helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Test-tube (in vitro) and animal model studies have explored the extract’s potential in three primary areas: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity. Research suggests the extract can scavenge free radicals, demonstrating its potential as an antioxidant. Its anti-inflammatory effect has been observed in animal models, where it helped reduce swelling. Furthermore, the extract has shown promise as an antimicrobial agent, exhibiting activity against various bacteria and fungi in laboratory settings. Consumers should understand that most of these findings are preliminary, based on non-human studies, and conclusive evidence from large-scale human clinical trials is still limited.
Safety Considerations and Usage Guidelines
The presence of potent compounds, especially alkaloids, in Crepe Jasmine extract makes safety and usage a key consideration for consumers. While the extract is generally safe in low concentrations for cosmetic applications, internal consumption carries higher risks due to the pharmacological activity of its constituents.
A lack of standardization across commercial extracts means the concentration of active compounds can vary significantly, complicating dosing and safety assessment. Topical application may cause mild skin irritation or allergic reactions, necessitating a patch test. Due to insufficient data, the extract is not recommended for consumption by pregnant or nursing individuals. Consulting a healthcare provider before using Crepe Jasmine extract internally is necessary, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions or those taking other medications.