One of the most underrated herbs is marjoram. But give one these incredible uses a try and let a love affair begin.

Marjoram is like oregano’s sweeter, lighter sibling. A Mediterranean-region staple, marjoram has a very distinct aroma that was praised among ancient Greeks and Romans as a symbol of love and happiness. Newlyweds would often be crowned with wreaths made of sweet marjoram to promise a long-lasting marriage. Deceased people who had marjoram growing on their graves were considered to be granted with eternal peace and happiness. Commonly, marjoram is used to season soups, stews, dressings and sauces, but its uses go much further than that. Due to its high nutrient content and flavor, the herb is a potent healer that surpasses many other herbs.

The herb is incredibly healing and quite the perk to many of your favorite dishes. Marjoram leaves contain essential oils and acids, vitamins A, B3, B6, C, D, and K as well as flavonoids, potassium, manganese, iron, copper and phosphorus. These ten uses of marjoram are just a glimpse of what it can do for you.

1. Heart Health

Your heart may love the herb in more ways than one. Marjoram has been shown to improve cardiovascular health and support a strong and robust heart.

2. “Anti” Herb

Marjoram possesses antibiotic, antibacterial, antidepressant, anti-fungal, anti-infectious, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, making it great for treating a host of infections.

3. Natural Fragrance

Take fresh marjoram and rub the leaves on your wrists and behind your ears, enough to release the herb’s essential oils. What you are left with is a light fragrance that bears piney, citrus overtones. I find the aroma fit for both men and women.

4. Digestive Aid

Marjoram’s essential oils have digestive properties. Its oils stimulate the secretion of digestive juices, starting with the salivary glands in the mouth. Then, it jump starts the secretion of gastric juices and bile as well as the peristaltic movement of the intestines.

5. Tea

Enjoy marjoram’s many benefits in a relaxing way – as a tea! Simply drop fresh marjoram leaves in piping hot tea water and let steep for a few minutes before sipping.

6. Pizza Topping

Oregano is a popular spice to season pizza with. Replace oregano with marjoram and bring a sweeter, albeit potent, flavor to the same old.

7. Anti-Aging Remedy

Aging is due to oxidation of cells, but foods high in antioxidants can reverse, or at least slow, this process. Marjoram is jam-packed with antioxidants and is thus a great anti-aging herb.

8. Sausage

If you make your own sausage, add more exciting flavors to the mix, starting with marjoram. Dried marjoram will give sausage a truly unique flavor and keep the taste buds guessing.

9. Menstrual Cycle Regularity

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, women who endure painful or irregular periods can benefit from regular marjoram consumption. The oils help to relieve cramps and other menstrual symptoms. The herb is also beneficial for those going through menopause. Pregnant women should avoid marjoram, as it can cause uterine contractions.

10. Pesto

Why stick with the same old when you can add a little bit of mystery to a regular recipe? Add some fresh marjoram to your next pesto recipe and you’ll see a lot of raised eyebrows, wondering what the secret ingredient could possibly be.

Image: TheGardenBuzz

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Herbal remedies marketed to pets might actually be dangerous to your dog or cat. Obviously, we prefer to give our animals natural herbs when possible. Our companion animals’ bodies work different from ours, and some products that work for people are toxic to pets. But with hundreds of “natural” or “herbal” options, how do you know which ones are truly safe?

The first place to start is with your veterinarian. There are even holistic vets who can help evaluate your pet’s condition and determine the best natural course of action. When you’re out shopping, read labels thoroughly and consult with the sales staff at holistic stores. But buyer, beware: Some of the commonly marketed products are ineffective and even dangerous.

Here are some of the most commonly recommended natural treatments that are actually toxic to dogs and cats:

• Pennyroyal oil is recommended as a natural flea repellent but is highly toxic to dogs. In addition to skin problems and allergic reactions, in concentrated doses, it can kill.
• Comfrey is suggested for bone health and conditions like hip dysplasia and arthritis. However, it can damage your pet’s liver and has been banned from use in Canada.
• Tea tree oil, touted as the skin-problem solution for cats, is highly toxic to cats, dogs, and other small animals.
• Garlic works as a natural insect repellent. However, in large doses, it’s toxic to both dogs and cats, causing anemia or even death. The jury is out on whether or not garlic can be used safely, but with the toxic potential, why risk it?

Image: Smoobs

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