Parijat (Night-Flowering Jasmine) – The Tree from Heaven

The Parijat tree (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis), commonly known as night-flowering jasmine or the “tree from heaven,” is one of India’s most mystical and sacred plants. With its star-shaped white flowers and orange centers, Parijat blooms at night and drops its flowers at dawn, creating a carpet of fragrant blossoms. This behavior has given it the poetic name “tree of sorrow” (arbor-tristis), but in Hindu mythology, Parijat is celebrated as a divine wish-fulfilling tree (Kalpavriksha) that descended from heaven.

Mythological Significance of Parijat

Parijat’s divine origins are rooted in ancient Hindu scriptures.

1. Emergence from Samudra Manthan

The legend of Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean) describes how gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain Amrit (nectar of immortality). Among the many treasures that emerged was the Parijat tree, which was gifted to the king of the heavens, Lord Indra, and planted in his Nandanvan (celestial garden).

2. Krishna and Satyabhama

One of the most popular legends involves Lord Krishna and his queens Satyabhama and Rukmini. It is said that Krishna brought the Parijat tree from heaven for Satyabhama after she expressed her desire to own its divine flowers. However, the first flower was offered to Rukmini, which led to a friendly rivalry between the queens. This story signifies the importance of love, desire, and divine blessings.

3. The Sacred Kintoor Parijat Tree

In Kintoor village, near Barabanki in Uttar Pradesh, stands a Parijat tree believed to be over 1000 years old. According to local lore, Arjuna brought this tree from heaven for Kunti (his mother) during the Mahabharata era. Even today, this tree is considered sacred and is worshipped by thousands of devotees.

Botanical Description of Parijat

• Scientific Name: Nyctanthes arbor-tristis
• Family: Oleaceae (Jasmine family)
• Common Names: Harsingar, Shefali, Night-Flowering Jasmine
• Height: 6–10 meters, with rough grey bark and simple, opposite leaves.
• Flowers: White petals with bright orange centers, blooming at night and falling by morning, creating a fragrant floral carpet.

Also Read This : Blossoms in the Moonlight: A Guide to Night-Blooming Flowers in India

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

Parijat flowers are not offered to Goddess Lakshmi or Durga, but they are highly sacred for Vishnu, Krishna, and Shiva.

• In temple rituals, these flowers symbolize purity and devotion.
• In Vastu Shastra, planting Parijat in the northeast direction of the house is said to attract peace, prosperity, and positive energy.
• In festivals like Krishna Janmashtami, Parijat flowers are offered during pujas and used for decorating temples.

Ayurvedic Importance of Parijat

In Ayurveda, Parijat is known as Harsingar and is classified as a medicinal plant with anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and detoxifying properties.

Health Benefits of Parijat:

1. Joint Pain and Arthritis:
   Leaf decoction (boiled leaves) relieves arthritis, joint swelling, and back pain.
2. Fever and Malaria:
   Parijat leaf tea is a natural remedy for chronic fevers, viral infections, and dengue fever.
3. Immunity Booster:
   Flowers are brewed into herbal teas to boost immunity and improve energy.
4. Skin and Hair Care:
   Parijat paste reduces acne, scars, and dandruff while enhancing skin glow.
5. Respiratory Health:
   Decoctions made from its bark help with asthma and dry cough.
6. Digestive Benefits:
   Seeds are used to improve digestion and relieve constipation.

Scientific Validation of Parijat’s Benefits

Modern studies have confirmed many of Parijat’s traditional uses:

• Antimicrobial and Antifungal: Leaf and flower extracts show strong infection-fighting properties.
• Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic: Research indicates it helps reduce joint inflammation and pain.
• Antioxidant Rich: Parijat flowers contain compounds like flavonoids that protect against free radical damage and premature aging.
• Anti-cancer Potential: Early research suggests it may have anti-tumor properties, though more studies are needed.

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Parijat in Vastu and Spiritual Beliefs

In Vastu Shastra, Parijat is considered a tree of prosperity and positivity. Planting it in the north or northeast direction of a home is said to attract peace, happiness, and harmony. Its flowers are often used in temples to offer to deities like Vishnu, Krishna, and Shiva.

How to Grow Parijat at Home?

Parijat is a hardy tree that thrives well in Indian climates.

• Soil: Use well-drained, sandy-loam soil mixed with organic compost.
• Watering: Water 2–3 times a week; avoid waterlogging.
• Sunlight: Prefers full or partial sunlight.
• Propagation: Can be grown from seeds or stem cuttings.
• Pruning: Trim dried branches after flowering season to encourage new growth.

Other Cultural Uses of Parijat Flowers

• Perfume and Dye: Dried flowers are used for making perfumes and saffron-colored natural dye.
• Aromatherapy: The fragrance of Parijat helps reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
• Decorative Purpose: The fragrant flowers are widely used for temple garlands and wedding decorations.

Conclusion

The Parijat tree is more than just a plant — it is a blend of mythology, spirituality, and healing. Its heavenly fragrance, divine stories, and Ayurvedic benefits make it one of the most cherished trees in Indian culture. Growing Parijat in your home garden is not just about beauty; it’s about bringing a piece of ancient heritage and positive energy into your space.

Also Read This : Blossoms in the Moonlight: A Guide to Night-Blooming Flowers in India

FAQs about Parijat (Night-Flowering Jasmine)

Q1. Why is Parijat called the tree from heaven?
It is believed to have descended from heaven during the Samudra Manthan and is considered divine and wish-fulfilling.

Q2. Can we grow Parijat at home?
Yes, Parijat is easy to grow in pots or gardens if provided with sufficient sunlight and care.

Q3. What are the health benefits of Parijat?
It helps in treating fever, joint pain, skin problems, and boosting immunity.

Q4. Why do Parijat flowers fall at night?
The flowers bloom at night and naturally fall at dawn, symbolizing the cycle of life and renewal.

Q5. Which gods are associated with Parijat flowers?
Parijat flowers are especially offered to Vishnu, Krishna, and Shiva during prayers.