Origanum majorana (Marjoram) is a somewhat cold-sensitive perennial aromatic herb or undershrub with sweet pine and citrus flavours. Marjoram tea has been used historically for relief from symptoms of hay fever, sinus congestion, indigestion, asthma, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, colds, coughs, and nervous disorders. It is a gently fragrant, calming herb that does have mild antioxidant and anti-fungal properties. Unsweetened tea can also be used as a mouthwash or gargle.
Externally, Marjoram leaves can be ground into a paste (add hot tea or water, and a little oatmeal for consistency purposes, if desired), and used for the pain of rheumatism and for sprains.
Marjoram helps expel and loosen phlegm of the mucous membranes of the nasal and bronchial passages. The warmth accumulated by the herb from the sun helps to clear bad cold. Tea made from marjoram has the ability to stimulate the sweat glands. It helps to moisten taut, dry skin during influenza, if taken in small quantities. It is useful in promoting and regulating menstruation if taken in the form of an infusion. Such an infusion helps in promoting the secretion and flow of milk in nursing mothers. The oil of marjoram is beneficial in skin disorders and it can be applied externally in case of bruises, sprains, stiff and paralytic limbs. It also allays toothache. The herb is beneficial in the treatment of digestive disorders. It expels gas from the stomach. Hot fomentations of the dried leaves and tops applied in bags are helpful in colic. The oil of marjoram can be used beneficially as hot fomentation in acute diarrhea.
