The Natural Health Benefits of Marjoram

Marjoram is a perennial shrub with pine and citrus flavors and is common to Europe. Scientifically classified as Origanum majorana, it is harvested primarily for its aromatic leaves. Also known as wild marjoram, it grows up to 80 centimeters high, but is common between 30-60 centimeters. Bearing clusters of small purple flowers it is a strong flavored herb.

Marjoram is easy to grow and good for your garden. Marjoram attracts and stimulates bees and butterflies, resulting in maximum pollination in your garden. Marjoram needs about five hours of sunlight a day. If you are growing it indoors be sure to have it in a sunny windowsill, and regularly turn the plant to ensure all of it is getting the required sunlight.

Marjoram is commonly used in the kitchen. Use marjoram in tomato dishes, spaghetti sauces and other Italian recipes, salads and many vegetables. Freshly chopped marjoram can be used on meat and fish before cooking.

Marjoram tea is a popular treatment for common colds, headaches and upset stomach. Use three teaspoons of fresh marjoram into one cup of boiling water and steep for 10 minutes. Use marjoram sparingly because it is potent and quickly makes a strong tea.

The tea, when drunk, or used as a vapor for inhalation can sooth the digestive system, helping with cramps, indigestion, constipation, and flatulence. It has also shown to be beneficial in the treatment of headaches, migraines, and insomnia.

Marjoram essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and herbal blends. It is extracted from the fresh or dried leaves and flowers of the plant by steam distilling. It blends very well with lavender and bergamot oils for a relaxing aromatic blend. Marjoram has comforting and warming properties and is used to treat chronic lethargy and nervousness.

Marjoram oil is also a good muscle relaxant and pain reliever that is often used for rheumatic pains and sprains and strains. Additionally, it can help with swollen joints and muscles. While marjoram oil can help with delayed, painful or irregular menstrual cycles and cramps, it can also reduce sexual drive and desire.

The chemical components that make up marjoram oil include analgesic, anti-spasmodic, anaphrodisiac, antiseptic, anti-viral, bactericidal carminative and cephalic.

Marjoram and marjoram oil is non-toxic, non-irritant, and non-sensitizing, however still should not be used by women who are pregnant. Remember that natural therapies and herbal medicines should be used in conjunction with traditional medical treatment. Self-treating serious ailments can be dangerous and possibly life threatening.

References

Janet C. Maccaro, Natural Health Remedies: An A-Z Family Guide, Siloam Press, 2003

Amy Rost, Natural Healing Wisdom & Know How: Useful Practices, Recipes, and Formulas for a Lifetime of Health, Black Dog & Leventhal Publishing, 2009.