Jasmine is one of the most romantic and recognizable floral scents in the world. But did you know it can also be a beautiful addition to your cocktails?
From delicate syrups to exotic infusions, jasmine brings a light, floral aroma that instantly elevates drinks.
However, not all jasmine flowers are safe to use. I almost poisoned my friend when I made a simple syrup out of pink jasmine, assuming all jasmine flowers were edible.
Don’t make my mistakes- let’s break down what’s edible, what’s not, and how to use jasmine properly in your cocktail recipes.
Which Jasmine Flowers Are Safe to Eat?
Only certain types of jasmine are safe for culinary use:
Jasminum sambac (Arabian jasmine)
This is the most commonly used edible jasmine. It’s popular in teas (like jasmine green tea) and syrups.
Jasminum officinale (Common jasmine)
Also considered edible in small amounts, especially when grown organically and untreated.
Always make sure your jasmine is grown specifically for culinary use—avoid flowers from florists or garden centers, as they’re often treated with pesticides and not meant to be consumed.
Jasmine Lookalikes to Avoid
Some plants with “jasmine” in the name are not true jasmines and can be toxic:
- Carolina Jasmine (Gelsemium sempervirens): Highly toxic. Do not consume.
- Yellow Jasmine: Also poisonous and not suitable for food or drink.
If you’re unsure, stick with food-grade dried jasmine or petals sourced from trusted culinary herb suppliers.
Other Names for Jasmine
Depending on the region or variety, jasmine may also be called:
- Sampaguita (Philippines)
- Mallika (India)
- Pikake (Hawaii)
- Jasmine blossom
- Arabian tea flower
These often refer to Jasminum sambac, which is safe for food and drink when untreated.
How to Use Jasmine in Cocktails
There are a few easy and beautiful ways to add jasmine to your drinks:
1. Jasmine Simple Syrup
Infuse dried jasmine petals or jasmine tea into a traditional 1:1 simple syrup. It adds subtle floral sweetness to gin, vodka, or even whiskey drinks. Try our jasmine syrup recipe.
2. Jasmine-Infused Spirits
Steep jasmine tea or dried petals in clear spirits like gin, vodka, or white rum for a few hours to create a unique infusion. Strain before using.
3. Jasmine Tea as a Mixer
Brew jasmine green tea and chill it. Use it as a base for highballs or spritz-style cocktails.
4. Floral Ice Cubes
Freeze food-safe jasmine petals in ice cubes to make your cocktail presentation pop.
5. Edible Garnish
Float a fresh jasmine blossom on top of a drink for a beautiful, aromatic touch—just make sure it’s organic and safe to eat!
Flavor Pairings with Jasmine
Jasmine’s delicate flavor pairs especially well with:
- Citrus (lemon, yuzu, orange)
- Green tea or white tea
- Honey or elderflower
- Gin, vodka, rum, or sake
- Coconut, lychee, or pear
Final Tips
- Use jasmine sparingly—it can be overpowering.
- Always confirm the variety is safe and unsprayed.
- Test jasmine flavors in small batches before adding to full cocktails.
Want cocktail recipes using jasmine? Check out our jasmine cocktail roundup here or learn how to make jasmine simple syrup at home!
