Marjoram

Origanum majorana

Marjoram

The Greeks have many myths and gave us the name of this ancient culinary herb: oros ganos, meaning joy-of-the-mountain. If you have been fortunate enough to visit Greece, where oregano (wild Marjoram) covers the hill slopes imparts the summer air with its peppery fragrance, you have seen why the Greeks gave this plant that name. Goddess Aphrodite is attributed with imparting the sweet-spicy smell to the Marjoram plant as a symbol for luck. Bridal couples were crowned with garlands of Marjoram and plants were placed on tombstones to give rest to haunted spirits. The Greeks loved the smell after a bath, as Marjoram oil was massaged on their forehead and hair.

What is Marjoram Used For?

As we saw in the history section, Greek Culture has given us many practical uses of Marjoram. A few drops of the oil sprinkled on a pillow were recommended to promote relaxing and restorative sleep. It was used traditionally to promote healthy digestion and intestinal health as well. In ancient times covering them with Marjoram, Rosemary, Oregano, and Thyme, preserved meats before refrigeration was used. The essential oils from the leaf have been tested for its microbial properties in-vitro. These applications were researched for food safety and natural preservative techniques.