What Is Marjoram? Benefits, Side Effects, and Uses

Learn about the uses, benefits, and side effects of marjoram

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.

What is the nutritional value of marjoram?

Marjoram contains nutrients such as:

Carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber
Minerals, such as iron, calcium, and magnesium
Vitamins, such as vitamins A, C, and D
Antioxidants

The active ingredients of marjoram (when used as an essential oil) include terpineol, origanol, thymol, carvacrol, and terpene hydrocarbons (responsible for aromatic odor).

What is marjoram used for?

Intestinal disorders
- Anorexia
- Dyspepsia
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Stomach cramps
- Improving appetite and digestion
- As an antispasmodic (reduces acid secretions of the stomach)
Topical
- Ulcers
- Clean wounds
- Acne
- As an antiseptic
Respiratory
- Common cold
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Asthma
Nervous disorders
- Insomnia
- Headache
Liver disorders
- Disorders affecting bile flow in the liver
- Gallstones
Hormonal issues
- Menopause
- Menstrual regulation
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Dysmenorrhea (menstrual cramps)
- Ovarian cysts
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
Genitourinary diseases
- Urinary tract infections
- Bladder inflammation
Skin issues
- Delays aging
- Improves appearance
- Lightens dark circles
Chlorosis (decreased iron in the red blood cells)
Fever
Gingivitis
Stomatitis
Muscle or nerve pain
Rheumatic pains
Sprains
Weight loss
Diabetes

12 health benefits of marjoram

1. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties

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.

2. Reduces stress

Marjoram oil is widely used in aromatherapy to produce a calming effect, reduce stress, and help ease symptoms of insomnia and depression.

3. Relieves pain

Marjoram may help relieve muscle pain associated with headaches and fevers.

4. Promotes heart health

Marjoram is an excellent source of antioxidants that protect blood vessels and can prevent hypertension and other heart problems.

5. Relieves digestive issues

Marjoram helps improve digestion, controls flatulence, and treats diarrhea and constipation.

It can also help stimulate appetite.

6. Eases common cold symptoms

Marjoram is often used to treat nasal congestion, runny nose, and ear and throat pain.

7. Controls blood sugar levels

Because it helps reduce the absorption of carbohydrates, marjoram may be effective in lowering or maintaining blood sugar levels.

8. Helps regulate hormones

Marjoram has been shown to help regulate menstrual cycles, relieve menopausal symptoms, restore hormonal imbalance, and treat polycystic ovarian syndrome.

9. Good for the kidneys

Marjoram works as a natural diuretic, flushing the system of excess water and toxins including excess sodium and uric acid.

10. Helps prevent infections

Marjoram acts as a natural antiseptic that helps prevent infections, treat acne, and lighten dark skin areas.

11. Slows skin aging

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.

12. Improves hair health

Adding a few drops of marjoram essential oil to shampoo or conditioner can help strengthen hair and encourage healthy growth.

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What are potential risks associated with marjoram?

Allergic reactions: Marjoram is not recommended for individuals who have a known allergy or sensitivity to it.
Pregnancy: During pregnancy, marjoram should be avoided because it has mucus-producing properties that can induce bleeding or pregnancy loss.
Breastfeeding: There is no scientific evidence to support the safety of using marjoram in women who are breastfeeding.
Skin irritation: Marjoram can cause contact dermatitis in people with highly sensitive skin.
Drug interactions: Caution is advised for people on medications for the following:
- Ulcers
- Bradycardia
- Bleeding disorders
- Scheduled for surgery