Baldwins Marjoram Herb ( Origanum Marjorana )

Origanum marjorana (herba)

Origin: Egypt

According to ancient Greek,  'oros' = mountain and 'ganos' = joy, therefore translates to "joy of the mountains". Marjoram was believed to be a gift from Aphrodite, known as the 'Goddess of Love', the herb was supposedly created to ordain humanikty with happiness. Garlands of Marjoram would caress the crowns of newlywed couples. It was also a botanical favourite in symbolising bliss and fertility.

On the other hand, the Romans adopted this signature in equal gesture and brought it with them along their empire; planting its presence in culinary and medicinal traditions.

Although a cousin of Oregano, Marjoram is milder, sweet and floral in comparison.

Health perks:

Marjoram contains the compound: carvacrol, which neutralises free radicals and reduces inflammation minimising risk of chronic conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular imbalances. Regulates blood pressure and circulation, and best as a hot infusion, Marjoram helps to remove toxins from the blood. And as an antiseptic diuretic, toxins will be guided out via the urinary system preventing infection.  

The flavonoids and phenols within Marjoram mediates with the inflamatory response, reducing swelling and stiffness, which can be prominent arthritic and gout (indirectly) conditions.  The antioxidants additionally help prevent oxidative stress of the area and support joint health gradually.

With regards to the digestive system, Marjoram stimulates digestive enzymes that help relieve gas and bloating, allowing digestion to work efficiently with assimilating nutrients. This also aids with gut infections and is its own probiotic.

According to a double-blind trial, Marjoram tea had shown to improve the hormone profile in polycystic ovarian syndrome. Traditionally, it was used to soothe menstrual discomfort (spasmodic relief) and encourage regular cycles, it was taken by nursing mothers***, as the herb promotes lactation.

Thymol and carvacrol in Marjoram exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal activity. This helps with healing respiratory infections, clearing phlegmatic conditions, soothing irritated tissue, coughing and relieves fevers.

Effective in relieving headaches, muscle tension and pain (applied topically as a maceration or even using its essential oil).

P.S. ***If pregnant/ nursing, or there are health imbalances that require attention, it is always wise to consult a qualified herbal practitioner... even before trying a new remedy.