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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