Marjoram and Its Essential Oils

Marjoram has a great deal to offer as a tea. Marjoram tea is one of the most popular choices among herbal tea lovers because of its nutritional value, medicinal value and exotic tastes. Marjoram is an herbal plant with a scent that is spicy and sweet. It has a distinctive flavor with an undertone of spice and a hint of sweetness. Marjoram is native to Mediterranean regions. Some of the places where it is grown are Egypt, Israel, Morocco, India, Tibet, China, Madagascar, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia.

Marjoram comes from the evergreen aromatic herb called Origanum majorana. Based on its chemical composition and origin, marjoram is categorized into various types which are sold under various names. European marjoram (also called wild marjoram or cyperus rotundus) is mainly grown in Greece, Italy and Spain and parts of Europe. Chinese or Arabian marjoram is a relatively new import. It was introduced from places in the southern part of China.

Marjoram is used for medicinal purposes. In Greece, it is often used in skin ointment preparation and to prevent sunburn. It is also used as a digestive aid and tonic for calming and soothing blood vessels and stomach. It is believed to stimulate digestive and circulatory systems, increase absorption of nutrients, act as stimulants and a powerful antioxidant. It is considered very useful in preventing arteriosclerosis and improving the condition of blood vessels in the body.

Marjoram is used for treating various conditions such as stress, depression, diabetes, heart diseases, migraine, pain, asthma, liver enlargement, allergies, boils, menstrual disorders, eczema and inflammatory conditions. It is also believed that some of the properties of the marjoram and its essential oils can improve memory, concentration and mood. Marjoram is believed to increase mental clarity by virtue of its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. Marjoram can be used as a natural preventive measure against bacterial vaginosis and infections. It is especially helpful in treating the condition of recurrent vaginal candidiasis.

Marjoram oil is an essential oil containing numerous fatty acids and several aromatic chemicals which have strong antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It is a very powerful antiseptic, which is very effective against gram positive bacteria and yeast. Marjoram, which is native to Indonesia, is now grown in other tropical regions of the world, particularly in Southeast Asia. Origanum vulgaris is the generic name for the oil extracted from marjoram leaves. Other names by which this popular herb is known are Holy Basil, Tree of Life and Magic Marjoram.

Marjoram is a valuable addition to a healthy diet. It is a popular herbal ingredient in aromatherapy, massage oils, shampoos and conditioners. However, due to its potentially harmful qualities, it is not recommended as a dietary supplement. Because of this potential health risks, it is highly suggested that you buy Marjoram organically from a reputable supplier.