{"id":10492,"date":"2023-10-04T12:08:03","date_gmt":"2023-10-04T11:08:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/?post_type=herb&p=10492"},"modified":"2025-04-14T10:40:50","modified_gmt":"2025-04-14T09:40:50","slug":"marjoram","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/marjoram\/","title":{"rendered":"Marjoram"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":10497,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"517ceffa-10d7-4c07-a49c-e653729a6cb0","beyondwords_preview_token":"ba958e52-0e27-47c4-9088-a6e82ea73862","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[1470,1471,1472],"conditions":[694,685,693,701,696,698,695,700],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[17,31,18,786],"western_action":[992,993,994,997,1001,1003,1014,1017,1018,1021,1024],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[1499,1498,1382,1487,1494],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-10492","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-anti-fungal","tag-parasympathomimetic","tag-sympatholytic","conditions-cardiovascular-system","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-endocrine-system","conditions-immune-system","conditions-nervous-system","conditions-reproductive-system","conditions-respiratory-system","conditions-skin","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-aromatic","sense-astringent-taste","sense-bitter","sense-cooling","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-antimicrobial","western_action-antioxidant","western_action-antispasmodic","western_action-bitter","western_action-carminatives","western_action-hepatoprotective","western_action-nervine","western_action-relaxant","western_action-stomachic","western_action-vasodilator","energetics_action-astringent","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-cool","energetics_action-dry","energetics_action-sweet","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20231004","herb_author":null,"banner_text":"Marjoram is a valuable remedy in professional and home herbalism","latin_name":"Origanum majorana<\/em>","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Lamiaceae","herb_summary":"This Mediterranean kitchen herb is used for a number of simple ailments as well as having a valuable place in a herbalist\u2019s dispensary. A herbalist may include marjoram for support in conditions of the nervous, cardiovascular, reproductive and digestive systems, particularly for infections.","key_benefits":"Digestive conditions\r\nAndrogenic imbalances\r\nCommon cold\r\nAntibacterial\r\nAnti-fungal\r\nPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)","how_does_it_feel":"Marjoram has a warm, mildly bitter and pungent, aromatic taste with sweet pine and citrus flavours. Its flavour and aromatic profile is preserved well when the herb is dried, unlike other herbs in the mint family such as oregano and basil.","hdif_image_1":10497,"hdif_image_2":10496,"hdif_image_3":10498,"hdif_video":"","sense":[17,31,18,786],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_10497\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Marjoram Marjoram plant (Origanum majorana<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nMarjoram is a popular kitchen herb used in Mediterranean cuisine. It is closely related to oregano with which it shares many common medicinal actions, yet it has its own unique properties. These aromatic kitchen herbs have a wide variety of health benefits for use in home herbalism. Kitchen herbs like marjoram can be invaluable allies to treat simple conditions, for which one may usually reach for the medicine cupboard.\r\n\r\nMarjoram is rich in aromatic compounds which have effects on the digestive system, helping to support digestion and the assimilation of nutrients. It is also sometimes used forsymptomatic relief of mild spasmodic digestive complaints such as bloating and flatulence.\r\n\r\nMarjoram\u2019s antibacterial and skin healing properties make it an excellent ingredient in a balm for grazes, cuts and minor wounds. It is sometimes used to treat irritated skin around the nostrils such as is sometimes experienced when under attack from a seasonal infection. For these applications it can be infused into a carrier oil and solidified with a solid wax (e.g. beeswax) to be applied as an ointment to the affected area.\r\n\r\nMarjoram can be drunk as a tea to help reduce the symptoms of a common cold. It works by calming inflammation, reducing congestion, it has antimicrobial properties and also directly addresses the headaches that are often associated with congestion in the sinuses. It can also be used as an ointment applied to the chest for respiratory congestion and coughs as well as to treat muscle aches and pains.\r\n\r\nA slightly warmed olive oil infusion of marjoram is a traditional remedy for ear infections. This can be made up using homemade marjoram oil infusion (see recipes below). It is applied as 1 drop directly into the ear or rubbed around the ear. One must ensure that any homemade medicinal preparations are made using sterile equipment to avoid introducing further infection.","into_the_heart_of":"[caption id=\"attachment_10493\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Dried Dried Marjoram (Origanum majorana<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nMarjoram is a bitter, cooling medicine. It has moderately more pungent qualities than that of its close relative oregano. Marjorams cooling properties come from its ability to improve liver function by direct action of its bitter compounds. As the liver is a primary organ of metabolism - any herb that stimulates or supports its function will improve the elimination of inflammatory toxins - thus reducing heat.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nBitter cooling herbs are also often associated with heart-regulating and calming qualities. Marjoram also has a dynamic action on the cardiovascular system as a vasodilator it relaxes and opens the channels of circulation allowing the blood to perfuse into the tissues more effectively (5).<\/span>\r\n\r\nDue to this action, it can be used as part of a formula for hypertension (high blood pressure) (5), particularly where it is related to constriction and tension throughout the cardiovascular system. A herbalist would approach the treatment of hypertension to address any causative factors such as stress, obesity and smoking. They would also likely work with a herbal formula that includes cardioprotective herbs as well as nervines and adaptogens (herbs that support and protect the systems of the body most affected by stress).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nMarjoram has a direct effect on a branch of the nervous system called the autonomic nervous system (ANS). There are two branches of the ANS- parasympathetic (PSNS) and sympathetic (SNS). Put simply their roles are as follows; the PSNS regulates \u2018rest and digest\u2019 functions, whereas the SNS controls blood pressure, heart and breathing rate- and essentially the stress response- i.e. the fight or flight.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nMarjoram is parasympathomimetic - meaning that it activates the PSNS. It is also sympatholytic- reducing overactivity of the SNS (5). The imbalance in the autonomic nervous system often leans this way due to prolonged stress hormones which can leave the nervous system in a state of dysregulation and overactivity (5).<\/span>\r\n\r\nDue to this effect on the nervous system, marjoram may be incorporated into a treatment approach to address symptoms of sympathetic excess - such as digestive and sleep issues as well as anxiety and agitation. It has a calming effect due to its balancing effect on the ANS. For the same reason, it may help with spasms of sympathetic origin (stress) as well as for epigastric tension (over the stomach), headaches, migraines, hypertension, tachycardia (rapid heartbeat) and palpitations- all of which symptoms are directly associated with sympathetic excess.<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"Marjoram has a very ancient reputation as a medicinal herb. The Greeks used it extensively, both internally and externally. It was referenced for use as an antidote for narcotic poisons and to treat convulsions and dropsy.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nAmong the Greeks, if Marjoram grew on a grave it indicated the happiness of the departed, and among both the Greeks and Romans, it was the custom to crown young couples with Marjoram with other herbs like Bay (1).<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"[caption id=\"attachment_10494\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Marjoram Marjoram (Origanum majorana<\/em>) in bloom[\/caption]\r\n\r\nSweet marjoram has various pharmacological properties which have undergone research, including antioxidant, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antiulcer, anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative and antifungal activities (2).<\/span>\r\n

Digestive system<\/h3>\r\nIn modern herbal medicine, Marjoram<\/span> is often used for gastrointestinal disorders and to improve the overall function of the digestive system. Some of the effects of marjoram include an increase in acid and pepsin (an important digestive enzyme) secretions which increase the activity of digestion in the upper digestive tract. Marjoram also has anti-ulcer activity and mucus-protecting effects (2).<\/span>\r\n

Immune system<\/h3>\r\nMarjoram is identified as a powerful and diverse <\/span>antibacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory agent. Aromatic compounds (volatile oils) in marjoram are largely responsible for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity (2).<\/span>\r\n\r\nLike its close relation to Oregano, Marjoram has antimicrobial activity. A herbalist may use marjoram as part of a treatment approach for simple infections either in a tincture blend, as a tea or for topical infections (including fungal) on the skin. A herbalist would likely combine marjoram with other more potent antibacterial herbs such as <\/span>garlic<\/span><\/a>, <\/span>ginger<\/span><\/a> and <\/span>echinacea<\/span><\/a> (4) depending on the specific constitution and circumstances of the patient.<\/span>\r\n

Cardiovascular system<\/h3>\r\nMarjoram is sometimes used in cardiac disease and dysrhythmia (an abnormal or irregular heartbeat). A number of mechanisms may be responsible for these applications of marjoram such as that it has antiplatelet and cardioprotective activities via its effects on nitric oxide (a physiological compound that dilates the blood vessels) and lipid peroxidation (a process under which oxidants such as free radicals attack lipids ) in heart tissues (2).<\/span>\r\n

Reproductive system<\/h3>\r\nMarjoram has some traditional references for its ability to restore hormonal balance and to regulate the menstrual cycle. Marjoram is also indicated in vaginitis and PCOS (polycystic ovarian disease) which can be related to its ability to assist in hormonal balance by reducing androgen hormones such as DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone, an adrenal androgen hormone) (2, 3).<\/span>\r\n

Nervous system<\/h3>\r\nHerbalists may use marjoram to help with <\/span>nervous system<\/span> imbalances associated with the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Marjoram is specifically parasympathomimetic, meaning that it stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system (PSNS).\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nIt also directly reduces overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system which is often a physiological reaction to prolonged exposure to stress hormones. Such symptoms would include palpitations, hypotension, anxiety, hyperactivity, hypervigilance, reduced digestive function and sleep disturbances. More explanation on ANS activity of marjoram can be found in \u2018into the heart of\u2019 (5).<\/span>","research":"[caption id=\"attachment_10498\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"600\"]\"Marjoram Marjoram twigs (Origanum majorana<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nThere are currently few human clinical trials on marjoram. However, there are a number of in vivo\/ in vitro studies that focus on a number of its compounds which demonstrate a variety of its effects. A number of these studies have been included below to demonstrate the mechanism of action for some of the medicinal actions of marjoram discussed in this monograph.<\/span>\r\n\r\nAnimal studies are not condoned by herbal reality, however for the purpose of including research from which some understanding of therapeutic actions can be confirmed, some animal studies have been included herein.<\/span>\r\n

A marjoram review<\/h3>\r\nA review of studies carried out on marjoram discuss various pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antiulcer, anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antifungal activities (2).<\/span>\r\n

Hormone balancing and PCOS<\/h3>\r\nA randomised, double-blind placebo controlled pilot study was carried out to investigate the effects of marjoram tea on the hormonal profile of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (3). The study included 25 patients who were either assigned to receive marjoram tea or a placebo tea twice daily for 1\u00a0month.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe study found that marjoram tea significantly reduced DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone an adrenal androgen hormone) and fasting insulin levels in comparison to the placebo group. The study concludes that marjoram has beneficial effects on the hormonal profile of PCOS women because it improved insulin sensitivity and d the levels of adrenal androgens (3).<\/span>\r\n

Antibacterial and anti-fungal properties<\/h3>\r\nA review of studies on marjoram\u2019s essential oil fraction demonstrated significant antimicrobial and antifungal activity. A range of 25 bacterial and 5 fungal species, as well as food borne bacteria associated with food poisoning, have been found to be susceptible to marjoram essential oil.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nThe most susceptible organisms were <\/span>Beneckea natriegens, Erwinia carotovora<\/span><\/i> and <\/span>Moraxella<\/span><\/i> sp<\/span><\/i>. as well as fungal <\/span>Aspergillus niger. <\/span><\/i>S<\/span>taphylococcus aureus<\/span><\/i> (which is most associated with food poisoning) being least affected (4).<\/span>","did_you_know":"Genus name probably comes from the Greek words oros meaning \u2018mountain\u2019 and \u2018gamos\u2019 meaning \u2018joy\u2019. This reference is due to the native habitat of marjoram in mountain areas where it is appropriately referred to as \u2018joy of the mountain\u2019.<\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":10503},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Marjoram is a perennial herb, with creeping roots, sending up woody stems about a foot high, branched above, often purplish green leaves. The leaves are opposite, petiolate, about an inch long, nearly entirely hairy beneath. The flowers grow in corymbs, with reddish bracts, a two-lipped pale purple corolla, and a five-toothed calyx. It blooms from the end of June, through August. There is a variety with white flowers and light-green stalks, another with variegated leaves.","common_names":"