The Jasminum Sambac variety that is common to the Philippine Sampaguita is the Maid of Orleans. It is this variety that has the strongest scent and is used to impart the Jasmin scent on teas. The equivalent of our Kampupot is the Grand Duke of Tuscany. The Kampupot or double Sampaguita is now extremely difficult to locate.

The Jasminum Sambac variety that is common to the Philippine Sampaguita is the Maid of Orleans. It is this variety that has the strongest scent and is used to impart the Jasmin scent on teas. The equivalent of our Kampupot is the Grand Duke of Tuscany. The Kampupot or double Sampaguita is now extremely difficult to locate.

Sampaguita comes from the Pilipino words “sumpa kita,” which means “I promise you.” It is a pledge of mutual love. In early days, a young couple exchanged sampaguita necklaces much like a bride and groom exchange wedding rings nowadays. It remains a timeless testament to a lover`s pledge…a symbol of purity, devotion and fidelity. It is also a romantic symbol of simplicity, humility and strength.

Sampaguita garlands are offered to welcome dignitaries and special guests. During school graduation rites, they are used as symbol of appreciation or accomplishment. They are commonly used as religious adornments in churches and homes, as decorations in wedding ceremonies and also during funeral wakes for the beloved.

In a small ceramic container, I arranged small twigs of Sampaguita with opened flowers and buds. The flowers when fully opened like this have lost some of their fragrance. They could last for a day before falling off from the twig while the buds remain and continue to mature.

In a small ceramic container, I arranged small twigs of Sampaguita with opened flowers and buds. The flowers when fully opened like this have lost some of their fragrance. They could last for a day before falling off from the twig while the buds remain and continue to mature.

While the Sampaguita is not native to the Philippines but an import from India, the Sampaguita was named the national flower of the Philippines by Governor-General Frank Murphy in 1934. It is not known however, if this executive fiat during the Commonwealth Period has been validated as a bill during the Republic Period. On advice from the Secretary of Agriculture of that period, Murphy concluded: “Considering its popularity, ornamental value, fragrance and the role it plays in the legends and traditions of the Filipino people, I hereby declare the Sampaguita to be the national flower of the Philippine Islands.”

The leaves and flowers of Sampaguitas are used as antipyretic and decongestant; the roots as analgesic; the flowers as lactifuge (to check the secretion of milk, or to dispel a supposed accumulation of milk in any part of the body) and as source for oils used in cosmetics and perfume. The oil is also used in aromatherapy. Read further on the medicinal values of Sampaguita.

Below is a good way of enhancing the fragrance of Sampaguitas on a table.

Early morning, I gather Sampaguita buds that are due to open and float them in a dish with some water. It is important to pick only the mature buds. To hasten the opening, it is advisable to detach the peduncle and receptacle of the buds.

Early morning, I gather Sampaguita buds that are due to open and float them in a dish with some water. It is important to pick only the mature buds. To hasten the opening, it is advisable to detach the peduncle and receptacle of the buds.

By sundown, the buds begin to open like mini lotuses that float on water. The fragrance of the flower at this time is intense. This kind of arrangement is wonderful when hosting dinner as guests never fail to be impressed.

By sundown, the buds begin to open like mini lotuses that float on water. The fragrance of the flower at this time is intense. This kind of arrangement is wonderful when hosting dinner as guests never fail to be impressed.

Close up of half-opened Sampaguita buds.

Close up of half-opened Sampaguita buds.