Marjoram (Origanum majorana) – Dried Herb, Organic

Marjoram also known as Sweet Marjoram is an aromatic perennial herb in the mint family and is native to Egypt and Arabia. Today, it is commonly found growing in the Mediterranean region and in gardens around the world for culinary and medicinal purposes.

In Greek mythology, Aphrodite was the goddess of two herbs: Oregano and Marjoram. Oregano was designed by her hand to represent joy and she planted the herb in her garden in Mount Olympus to show the humans below a physical representation of happiness. Marjoram on the other hand was made to have the scent of Aphrodite on it. In Greece, it is believed that if Marjoram is growing on a grave, it is a sign the departed soul had found happiness. Throughout the middle ages it was worn by bridal couples to signify love, honour and happiness.

Marjoram eventually made its way to England where they used it in beer, tobacco and as an ingredient in snuff to add a bit of minty flavour. In medieval times, Marjoram was used as an ingredient within the many formulas and pottages for the attempted cure of the various plagues and diseases.

The herb was used in folk medicine for runny nose and colds in infants and toddlers, dry and irritating coughs, swollen throat and ear pain. Marjoram was also used for various digestion problems including poor appetite, liver disease, gallstones, intestinal gas and stomach cramps. Some women used Marjoram tea for treating some symptoms related to menopause, for mood swings from around menstruation, starting menstruation and promoting the flow of breast milk. Other folk uses included sleep issues, muscle spasms, headaches, sprains, bruises, circulatory issues and back pain.

The primary flavour in Marjoram is fresh, woody, citrusy and floral. Marjoram has a milder flavour than Oregano and tastes like Thyme, but sweeter and with a stronger scent. As a culinary additive, it is commonly used to flavour soups, sauces, salads and meat dishes.

Marjoram contains antioxidants and nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium and Iron.

Properties:

The taste and energetics of Marjoram are sweet, slightly bitter, aromatic and warming. Marjoram has an affinity to the circulatory system, digestive system, immune system, musculoskeletal system, liver, respiratory system and nervous system. For the respiratory system combine Marjoram with Mullein Leaf, Wild Cherry Bark or Ginger Root. For the digestive system combine Marjoram with Lavender, Fennel or Rosemary.

How to use:

1 teaspoon of Marjoram herb to one cup of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

Use as a spice with other herbs such as Thyme, Bay Leaves and Black Pepper. Make into an infused oil, fomentation or add into a bath.

Cautions & contraindications: 

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your health care provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.