Marjoram is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family and is native to the Mediterranean region and East Asia.
Marjoram has culinary uses, used to garnish salads and soups. Sweet marjoram also has anti-inflammatory properties and has been used in traditional medicine to treat and prevent a wide variety of diseases, including gastrointestinal, ocular , nasopharyngeal, respiratory, cardiac, rheumatologic, and neurological disorders.
Learn about the uses, benefits, and side effects of marjoram.
Marjoram contains nutrients such as:
The active ingredients of marjoram (when used as an essential oil) include terpineol, origanol, thymol, carvacrol, and terpene hydrocarbons (responsible for aromatic odor).
Marjoram contains antioxidants such as carvacrol, which help prevent cell damage from harmful radicals and reduce inflammation. These properties help reduce the risk of certain diseases, including diabetes , autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Marjoram oil is widely used in aromatherapy to produce a calming effect, reduce stress, and help ease symptoms of insomnia and depression.
Marjoram may help relieve muscle pain associated with headaches and fevers.
Marjoram is an excellent source of antioxidants that protect blood vessels and can prevent hypertension and other heart problems.
Marjoram helps improve digestion, controls flatulence, and treats diarrhea and constipation.
It can also help stimulate appetite.
Marjoram is often used to treat nasal congestion, runny nose, and ear and throat pain.
Because it helps reduce the absorption of carbohydrates, marjoram may be effective in lowering or maintaining blood sugar levels.
Marjoram has been shown to help regulate menstrual cycles, relieve menopausal symptoms, restore hormonal imbalance, and treat polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Marjoram works as a natural diuretic, flushing the system of excess water and toxins including excess sodium and uric acid.
Marjoram acts as a natural antiseptic that helps prevent infections, treat acne , and lighten dark skin areas.
The antioxidants in marjoram oil can help prevent signs of premature aging , such as fine lines and wrinkles. When used regularly, it can make the skin look younger and healthier.
Adding a few drops of marjoram essential oil to shampoo or conditioner can help strengthen hair and encourage healthy growth.
Image Source: iStock image
Organic Facts. 22 Surprising Benefits of Marjoram. https://www.organicfacts.net/marjoram.html
Healthy Focus. 12 Proven Benefits of Marjoram. https://healthyfocus.org/benefits-of-marjoram/
Bina F, Rahimi R. Sweet Marjoram: A Review of Ethnopharmacology, Phytochemistry, and Biological Activities. J Evid Based Complementary Altern Med. 2017 Jan;22(1):175-185. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871212/
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