Meaning of the Jasmine Flower

Throughout history, people have attributed special meanings or symbolism to flowers. The practice came into full bloom during the Victorian era, when the language of flowers was most popular. Speaking through flower symbolism was especially prevalent between romantic couples because open public communication was not allowed in polite society. Today, many flowers still carry those meanings with them, including the jasmine flower.

History
For thousands of years, the jasmine plant has been cultivated not only for the beauty of its small, white, star-like flowers, but it has also been prized for its intoxicating scent. Originating in the foot hills of the Himalayas and Ganges plains, the plant was cultivated and brought to India, China, the Middle East and other regions. From there, it spread into France, Italy and the Mediterranean, and eventually it was introduced to the rest of Western Europe and Britain. Today, jasmine is grown and cultivated all over the world in its many varieties.

Origin of the Name
The name jasmine comes from the Persian word "yasmin," which means "fragrant flower." The name Jasmine is also used as a girl's name, meaning "God's gift." The scientific name is Jasminum Officinale.

Meaning
Since jasmine has been cultivated all over the world for its flowers and scent, there are different varieties, and each type of jasmine is associated with different meanings.
Because of its attractive scent, the white, or Indian, jasmine symbolizes attachment and sensuality. The white flower of jasmine can also represent amiability and modesty. Yellow jasmine is associated with grace and elegance, while the variety known as Spanish jasmine also represents sensuality.
In India, jasmine flowers are given as religious offerings as a symbol of divine hope, and the flowers are sometimes used in religious ceremonies.

Uses
The most obvious use for jasmine is for its scent, whether in landscapes and gardens or in perfumes. Women of various southeast Asian cultures use the flowers in their hair for their beautiful fragrance. In China, jasmine has been used for tea for centuries, and some cultures believe drinking jasmine tea daily can prevent diseases such as cancer. In aromatherapy, jasmine is thought to be an antidepressant and to promote relaxation while helping with fatigue and tension. The scent is often used in incenses and massage oils, and some cultures believe when jasmine is burned or worn, it will attract spiritual love, wealth, money and prophetic dreams.

Interesting Fact
The scent of the jasmine flower is most potent at night, when it releases its scent into the cooler night air.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/about_6641707_meaning-jasmine-flower_.html

Meaning of the Violet Flower

The violet is the flower of four U.S. states, and of Greece. People have a fondness for the delicate flower and its fragrance and color. It has symbolic roots reaching into myth, legend, and religion, and it held a prominent place in the Victorian language of flowers. With its small size and delicate looks, it has often been associated with romance and romantic love. The violet apparently has a lot to say.

Mythology
The ancient Romans thought of violets as a symbol of mourning, their deep color indicative of spilt blood, but their sweet scent lending them a peaceful connotation. The Romans often laid them on graves and used them to decorate crypts to symbolize their continued affection for the one who had passed on. They believed that this ensured the deceased would rest quietly.

Folklore
The folklore of medieval times thought of violets as protection against evil spirits. Often times the leaves would be used in healing plasters, salves and antiseptics, and as a cure for insomnia and so the flower was associated with healing as well. During this time they were also given as tokens of love and symbols of faithfulness, both because of their lovely smell, and their protective and healing connotations.

Christian Symbolism
In Christianity the violet is associated with Mary, and with modesty, according to Women for Faith and Family. One tale tells that all violets were originally white, but Mary's despair over watching her son suffer upon the cross turned them all purple as a symbol of her mourning. This, interestingly, seems to link them back to the ancient Roman meaning of the flower as well as connect the flowers to Mary.

The Language of Flowers
The Victorians used flowers as a means of communication, assigning them meanings. Giving a person flowers was like passing them a note. In the language of flowers of the Victorian-era, the violet speaks of retiring modesty and the image of the "shrinking violet." The white violet meant candor, but also innocence, the way a child often speaks without the restraint of an adult.

Modern Symbolism
In our modern equivalent of the language of flowers, violets are often seen as plants for the home, representative of the family and of marriage. In wedding bouquets they represent a promise and faithfulness. In dreams they are said to represent the possibility of marriage or commitment.

Source: http://www.ehow.com/about_6547448_meaning-violet-flower_.html