Marjoram is a native of the Mediterranean region. It is a perennial herb of the mint family and loves warm climates and well-drained soil. It has a close relative in oregano. The three more popular variants of marjoram are:
• Sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana LINN.) – used for therapeutic purposes.
• Showy marjoram (Origanum pulchellum)
• Wild marjoram or oregano (Origanum vulgare)
(Source: Price, Shirley 2000 Aromatherapy Workbook London, UK: Thorsons)
Marjoram oil is extracted using methods of steam distillation. Steam is passed over flowering tops, fresh and dried leaves of sweet marjoram and the vapors are collected and cooled before retrieving the oil. Marjoram oil has a spicy, woody and camphoraceous aroma.
Marjoram oil is rich in chemical compounds such as origanol, pinene, borneol and camphor as well as sabinene, cymene, gamma terpineol, terpinolene and alpha terpinene. A complete list of chemical compounds and their amounts can be found in Dr. Duke's Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases (Source URL: http://sun.ars-grin.gov:8080/npgspub/xsql/duke/plantdisp.xsql?taxon=678)
Marjoram oil is a middle note essential oil which means its usage lasts for approximately four days on the person using it. Like most middle note oils it affects the metabolism, digestion and other functions of the body.
Health benefits of marjoram oil include:
1. Marjoram oil is believed to bring relief from pain and may be used for headaches, migraines, arthritic conditions, sprains, toothache, body aches, etc.
2. Marjoram oil is said to benefit cases of tetanus and sepsis development by application on wounds and cuts, burns and insect bites.
3. Marjoram oil is a tested antispasmodic. Thus it is beneficial to those experiencing muscle cramps, pulls, convulsions and spasms in the respiratory and digestive system.
4. Carminative – Marjoram oil relaxes the tight muscles of the abdomen and helps absorption of digestive by-product gases and is said to promote the downward movement of excess gas thus reducing instances of nausea, stomachache and vomiting.
5. Marjoram oil has digestive properties. It stimulates the salivary glands assisting in primary digestion. It also promotes the peristaltic movement of the intestines.
6. Because marjoram oil is an emmanagogue, it is believed to regulate menses in women who suffer from irregular, painful menstruation with obstructed flow. It may prevent premature menopause.
7. Marjoram oil is a powerful expectorant. This makes it suited for those suffering from sinusitis, productive coughs, cold, bronchitis, and pneumonia as well as conditions involving the larynx, pharynx, the lungs, etc.
8. Marjoram oil is a powerful hypotensor and this reduces the chances of heart attacks, hypertension and brain hemorrhages.
9. Laxative properties are also inherent in marjoram oil. It causes the large intestine and excretory passage to relax and purge the system of toxins.
10. Nervine – Marjoram oil claims to bring on mental strength and protects the user from mental disorders
11. As a sedative, marjoram oil helps those suffering from a case of nerves, anxiety, stress, phobia, etc. It calms the mind and promotes relaxation.
12. Marjoram oil is often used in rehabilitation centers due to its anaphrodisiac properties on such patients who have abnormal or excessive sexual desires.
13. As a diuretic, marjoram oil helps remove excess water, sodium, uric acid, bile salts, etc., from the body, thus lowering fat and aiding the kidneys in their function.
14. Marjoram oil is a strong vasodilator, thus relaxing and widening arteries in people who have cardiac conditions.
15. Marjoram oil is a multi-purpose oil that works towards inhibiting germ growth. This makes it useful during mumps, respiratory tract infections, digestive system infections, cuts, wounds, skin infections, etc.
Marjoram oil can be inhaled by using burners and vaporizers. It can also be used in massages and in baths by adding a few drops to the bathwater.
Marjoram oil blends well with:
• Top note oils like – bergamot oil, eucalyptus oil and tea tree oil
• Middle note oils like – chamomile oil, cypress oil, lavender oil and rosemary oil
• Base note oil like – cedarwood oil
Cautions:
• Only grade A or therapeutic grade marjoram oil is to be used for the above mentioned purposes.
• Marjoram oil is an emmanagogue and should be avoided in pregnancy
• Not suitable for young children
• Marjoram oil induces drowsiness
*Please note that only therapeutic grade oils should be used for treatments. All essential and carrier oils can start an allergic reaction on sensitive skin and most of the oils should not be used during pregnancy. Some oils are harmful to conditions of epilepsy, etc. Do not use any oil that has an aroma you are uncomfortable with. Consult your aromatherapist or holistic health therapist before using any oil.
Benefits, side-effects, prior preparations, costs, duration of procedure, recovery and resumption of daily activities as well as support issues should be discussed with your therapist for each type of treatment option before starting on your treatment.
Mamta Singh is a published author of the books Migraines for the Informed Woman (Publisher: Rupa & Co. URL: http://www.amazon.com/Migraines-Informed-Woman-Tips-Sufferer/dp/8129115174/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1298990756&sr=1-2), the upcoming Rev Up Your Life! (Publisher: Hay House India) and Mentor Your Mind (Publisher: Sterling Publishers). She is also a seasoned business, creative and academic writer. She is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer & sports nutritionist through IFA, Florida USA. Mamta is an NCFE-certified Holistic Health Therapist SAC Dip U.K. She is the lead writer and holds Expert Author status in many well-received health, fitness and nutrition sites. She runs her own popular blogs on migraines in women and holistic health. Mamta holds a double Master's Degree in Commerce and Business. She is a registered practitioner with the UN recognised Art of Living Foundation. Link: http://www.migrainingjenny.wordpress.com and http://www.footstrike.wordpress.com