General Properties

• analgesic
• anaphrodisiac
• anti-inflammatory
• antiseptic
• antispasmodic
• digestive
• sedative
• vasodilator

Description

Marjoram is an herb that is steam distilled from the flowering tops and leaves to produce an oil that is yellowish in color (darkening to brown as it ages). Some of its countries of origin are the Mediterranean, Yugoslavia and Hungary. While it has many chemical components, some of them are borneol, camphor, origanol and pinene. Marjoram's outstanding contribution to the world of aromatherapy is its ability to be warming to both the body and the mind.

It is an excellent oil to use when dealing with diseases that affect the ability of the individual to breathe (asthma, bronchitis, colds). When used in a steam inhalation it is quick to clear congested breathing passages quickly. It is warming while having analgesic and sedative properties. For those with a persistent, tickly cough this oil can be blended into a carrier to be massaged onto the throat and chest area (great before bed with the sedative aspect). For insomnia, this oil is a great one to use, especially when combined with lavender, in a warm bath before going to bed. Marjoram is also a vasodilator, making it a good oil to use in the treatment of high blood pressure and heart conditions. Because it dilates the arteries this, in turn, puts less strain on the heart. This quality also makes this a good essential oil to add to your post work out massage oil, as its ability to improve localized circulation will help to transport the toxins left in the muscles (due to the heavy exertion) away and out of the body. On an emotional level, those individuals who are lonely or grieving may use Marjoram for a short period of time. This oil also has the reputation of being used as an anti-aphrodisiac!

Marjoram blends well with Cedarwood, Chamomile, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Mandarin, Orange, Nutmeg, Rosemary, Thyme and Ylang ylang.

Specific Cautions

References

Information about this essential oil came from the following sources:

1. Worwood, Valerie Ann. The Fragrant Pharmacy. (Toronto: Bantam Books, 1990)
2. Davis, Patricia. Aromatherapy: An A-Z. (United Kingdom: Saffron Walden, 1988)
3. Tisserand, Robert and Tony Balacs. Essential Oil Safety. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 1995)

Note and Disclaimer

The information and opinions provided here are for general educational purposes only and do not replace medical advice. It is your responsibility to consult a suitably qualified medical practitioner to ensure that you will not have any medical problems from any of our products.

Product Specifications