What is marjoram and how is it useful?

Marjoram is a herbaceous perennial plant cultivated in gardens and pots as an aromatic and medicinal plant. As a spice, it can be used fresh or dried. Marjoram’s mild citrus flavor makes it a tasty and healthy ingredient that provides several health benefits.

Marjoram properties

Marjoram of the genus Oregano or Lamiaceae is undersized and with a strong aroma. The plant is widely used throughout the world. It grows in the countries of the Mediterranean basin, but is cultivated throughout Europe and America. Very similar to oregano.

Marjoram is a highly branched subshrub with small and fragrant leaves. Depending on the region, it reaches a height of 40 – 60 cm. The erect stem is woody. Grey-green oval leaves are arranged oppositely. Small white or pink flowers are collected in inflorescences, have a characteristic smell. Bloom from July to October.

 Lajoran inflorescences

The aerial parts of marjoram are used, from which the essential oil is extracted by distillation. Marjoram, what is this herb? This fragrant herb is one of the most popular in cooking. What is marjoram seasoning? Fine aroma and pleasant taste is ideal addition to the most various kitchen dishes.

Applications of marjoram

Although the marjoram plant is primarily used as a spice, it is also often used as a medicinal plant.

Additional Information! Its health effects have long been valued in natural medicine. Marjoram is one of the strongest sources of natural antioxidants.

The active ingredients it contains are essential oil, astringents and bitters. The main medicinal actions of marjoram:

  • acts against bloating, spasms, intestinal colic;
  • improves digestion;
  • helps with colds and flu, eases coughs, thins mucus;
  • helps with hay fever and asthma;
  • calms the nervous system;
  • helps with migraine;
  • improves the quality of sleep;
  • has a diuretic effect
  • has an antiseptic effect, disinfects and heals minor skin lesions.

Marjoram contains many health benefits. First of all, these are proteins, omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, fiber, vitamins C, E, K, A and beta-carotene. Marjoram contains minerals: iron, calcium, zinc, copper, selenium, phosphorus and manganese.

It is known to have antiseptic, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. In addition to this, it also has cardiovascular and emotional benefits. Marjoram can also help with diseases of the respiratory system. Releases breath when coughing and relieves colds.

Thanks to its relaxing and calming effect, it has a beneficial effect on the nervous system and its disorders. It can be used against nervous anxiety, headaches, migraines and insomnia. Traditional medicine even uses it for epilepsy.

When applied externally, marjoram herb helps with wounds, itching, rheumatic pains and varicose veins. To do this, you can prepare an oil extract from fresh herbs and use for rubbing.

Marjoram tea can be used for gastrointestinal disorders, flatulence or colds. A tea or extract is prepared from fresh or dried leaves. Dried marjoram is more aromatic than fresh marjoram.

 Marjoram tea

Tea has a diuretic effect, increases appetite, and if necessary, calms the nerves, relieves stress, relaxes the body and improves the quality of sleep. Using marjoram in tea will relieve bloating, cramps, and support digestion.

Marjoram tea will help with a choking cough. It relaxes the airways and promotes expectoration of mucus. It is recommended to drink 1 glass a day. For acute problems (cough, colds and flu), use 2 glasses a day. Inhalations from a decoction are also suitable. The tea is suitable for young children, but people with high blood pressure should use this tea with caution.

Method of preparation: put two teaspoons of marjoram in a cup and pour boiling water over it. Let it brew for 5-7 minutes. Strain and drink warm.

Note! Marjoram tea has a pleasant, slightly spicy taste, very fragrant, and its very aroma is soothing. This is why marjoram is also used in aromatherapy.

Inhaling the essential oil of the plant, with its pleasant aroma, can alleviate problems such as anxiety, depression, tension or sadness, etc.

 Essential oil of the plant

Marjoram in the kitchen

The use of marjoram is widespread in cooking. Dried marjoram is great for flavoring sauces, meats, and vegetables, and can be added to pizza and tomato-based dishes.

 The use of marjoram in cooking

If fresh marjoram is used, then add it to food only at the end of the process to preserve the flavor.

Harvesting

The peculiarity of marjoram is that, unlike many spicy herbs, its aroma and taste are not lost during drying, but are improved. The medicinal part of marjoram is concentrated in the flowers. They need to be collected at the peak of flowering, and properly dried.

Fresh shoots can be collected throughout the summer. To do this, cut them at a height of about 5 cm above the ground. Hang herbs in a ventilated place to dry. Once dried, the stems can be stored in airtight containers for up to a year.

Additional Information! The quality of dried marjoram depends on the harvest, as well as the storage time. Even if marjoram retains its aroma for a long time, it gradually loses it. It is important that the packages are hermetically sealed, and the use time should not be too long.

How to grow marjoram?

Due to its excellent properties, marjoram is often grown in gardens and in pots on balconies.

[ Grow in pots

It is considered an unpretentious plant. However, he needs a sunny place. The big advantage is that marjoram grows in most types of soil and requires minimal watering. However, sandy soil is best.

When planting, fresh animal manure should be avoided, otherwise the taste may be lost and the roots will not develop enough. Seeds should be placed shallow below the surface.

Marjoram can be transplanted into the garden only after the frosty nights have passed, when the air and soil have warmed up. When watering, it is important not to overwater the plant.

Side effects

Marjoram should never be used for more than two weeks, as frequent and prolonged use may cause headaches. Marjoram, especially the essential oil, should be avoided during pregnancy.