Many Mediterranean dishes include marjoram, a distinctive herb. Long used as a herbal medicine, it contains a variety of chemicals that may have health benefits. This page provides a comprehensive overview of Marjoram, covering all the essential information you need to know.
What is marjoram?
For thousands of years, people have grown marjoram, also known as sweet marjoram, an aromatic herb from the mint family, throughout the Mediterranean, North Africa, and Western Asia.
Its milder flavor, similar to oregano’s, makes it a popular addition to salads, soups, and meat preparations.
Although you can use it fresh, it works best when dried.
Furthermore, studies have demonstrated several anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects of marjoram. People have used it medicinally to treat a wide range of conditions, such as digestive problems, infections, and painful menstruation.
You can brew fresh or dried leaves into tea or extracts. Both types are available in health food stores and online.
It’s vital to note that marjoram extracts differ in strength and purity depending on the brand and source. To ensure that you are purchasing a high-quality product, seek third-party certification on the label.
Potential benefits
According to research, marjoram may have a variety of health benefits.
Anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities.
Free radicals, potentially dangerous chemicals, cause cell damage that antioxidants help prevent.
Researchers have discovered that marjoram contains several chemicals with antioxidant properties, including carvacrol.
Specifically, they could assist in decreasing inflammation within your body.
Chronic inflammation can elevate the likelihood of developing various diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders, despite inflammation being a natural bodily response. Therefore, decreasing inflammation levels could potentially decrease the risk of developing these conditions.
Reduce inflammation in your body.
While inflammation is a normal bodily reaction, persistent inflammation can increase your chance of developing diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. Thus, lowering inflammation may reduce your risk.
May have antibacterial action.
Marjoram has also shown antibacterial activity. Common uses include applying diluted essential oils to the skin to treat fungal infections and taking tablets to help treat gut bacterial overgrowth.
However, more study is required on these particular applications. Additionally, a variety of food crops use this herb as a natural insecticide.
May ease digestive problems.
People have long used marjoram to prevent digestive issues like stomach ulcers and foodborne illnesses.
A study of six herbs found that marjoram was effective against Clostridium perfringens, a common foodborne disease.
Furthermore, a mouse study found that the extract prevented stomach ulcers.
Manage your menstrual cycle and hormones.
Researchers have found that marjoram increases menstrual flow.
Its extract or tea may help control your menstrual cycle and restore hormone balance in non-pregnant women with irregular periods.
It may also help treat polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disease characterized by irregular periods and acne. A study of 25 women with PCOS discovered that marjoram tea enhanced their hormonal profiles and insulin sensitivity.
To prevent hazards, consult your doctor before taking any herbal supplements to aid in menstruation.
Possible side effects
Marjoram may cause a variety of adverse effects. As a result, you should use caution when supplementing.
Pregnancy complications
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid taking marjoram supplements.
Because of its effect on numerous reproductive hormones and menstruation, this plant may cause unfavorable side effects during pregnancy.
May influence blood coagulation.
Marjoram supplements may help prevent blood clotting.
One study of 20 herbs found that marjoram inhibited platelet production, which is an important element in blood clotting.
This could be especially dangerous for someone taking blood thinners.
May interact with specific drugs.
Marjoram may interact with some drugs, including blood thinners and anticoagulants, increasing your risk of bleeding.
It may also interfere with some diabetes drugs by reducing blood sugar levels, which could lead to severe lows. If you have diabetes, speak with your healthcare practitioner before using marjoram.
How to add marjoram to your diet
People often use this herb in modest amounts as a garnish or spice. To reap the benefits, you may need to drink tea or take it as a supplement.
You can also add marjoram to cooking oils by combining 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of your preferred oil with 1 teaspoon (1 gram) of marjoram. You can use this mixture for regular cooking or to marinate vegetables and meats.
When making soups or stews, wrap 2-3 teaspoons (6–9 grams) of marjoram in a small piece of cheesecloth and soak it in the pot while cooking.
When cooking, substitute marjoram. If you don’t have marjoram on hand, you can use numerous alternative herbs.
Oregano works exceptionally well, although it is stronger than marjoram, so use a little less.
Despite their slightly different flavors, thyme and sage can also serve as substitutes. Use these herbs in a 1:1 ratio.
The bottom line
Traditional medicine and cooking have long used marjoram, a fragrant plant.
It offers a number of possible benefits, including inflammation reduction, digestive relief, and menstrual cycle regulation.
If you are using it as a supplement, exercise caution and consult your healthcare provider if you have any specific medical concerns.
