Marjoram

Marjoram is usually considered a culinary spice, not a healing herb.  This is unfortunate, because science has supported its value as a digestive aid and discovered it may help treat herpes.

The ancient Greeks believed marjoram was first cultivated by Aphrodite, goddess of love, who's touch produced its fragrant aroma.  Greek couples wore marjoram wreaths at their weddings. The Greeks also believed that if a girl placed marjoram in her bed, Aphrodite would visit her dreams and reveal the identity of her future spouse.  Today in parts of Europe, girls who want marriages place marjoram sprigs in their hope chests.

Early Greek physicians used marjoram as an antidote for snakebite and a treatment for muscle and joint pains.  But the herb did not become widely used in healing until the Romans discovered it settled the stomach.  Roman herbalists also believed it could heal bruises, alleviate menstrual cramps, promote menstruation, and pinkeye and other eye problems.

Early colonists introduced marjoram into North America and used it as both a kitchen and medicinal herb.  American's 19th-century Eclectics recommended it as a tonic stimulant and menstruation promoter. Folk healers also used marjoram to treat infant colic, arthritis, and some cancers.

Contemporary herbalists recommend marjoram as a digestive aid, tranquilizer, and cough remedy.  Some say it helps relieve menstrual cramps without promoting menstruation.  Various herbalists recommend marjoram tea for headaches, before bed to prevent insomnia, and before travel to prevent motion sickness.

In its native Spain, Portugal, and North Africa, O. majorana is a perennial.  But it's grown as an annual in North America.

Marjoram is a hairy plant with square purplish stems.  The leaves are small and oval.  Its white, pin, or lavender flowers bloom in late summer and cluster close together in knots, hence the name knotted marjoram.

Once marjoram's tiny, slow-germinating seeds sprout, the plant grows easily.  For best results, germinate it indoors, then transplant it outdoors after danger of frost has passed. Marjoram grows best under full sun in rich, well-drained soil.  Pinch the flowers buds back to increase bushiness and leaf yield.