Aromatherapy A-Z: Marjoram

Marjoram is a bushy tender perennial that grows up to one foot in height. Its many branches have square stems and tiny, oval gray green leaves that may be fuzzy. Knotlike buds borne on spikes open to form clusters of white or pink flowers. When in full bloom, marjoram branches are steam-distilled to produce an oil with a warm, woody, spicy, slightly peppery, camphorlike and nutty aroma that is calming and comforting.

Thymus mastichina is commonly called Spanish marjoram or Spanish wood marjoram. As the name implies, it grows primarily in Spain. Its oil is pale orange to amber in color and has a distinctive eucalyptus-like aroma. Sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana or Majorana hortensis) is native to the Mediterranean, North Africa and southwest Asia. It produces a bright yellow oil that often darkens with age.

Marjoram, a member of the Lamiaceae family, is grown in gardens around the world and is a favorite in English country gardens. Most of the marjoram oil used for aromatherapy is produced in Bulgaria, Egypt, France, Germany, Hungary, Morocco and Tunisia.

Beauty Benefits

Marjoram facilitates the drainage of blood from bruised areas, helping to minimize bruising and speed healing time. It also helps release tension from facial muscles.

Emotional Effects

Marjoram oil relaxes the body and mind, and helps relieve insomnia. It calms emotions and minimizes emotional upsets, making it useful for anxiety, emotional exhaustion, nervous tension and stress. Marjoram oil provides comfort during times of grief, loneliness and sadness. It strengthens willpower. Marjoram oil gives greater control over sexual desire; regular use can permanently numb erotic sensations and impair sex drive and sexual function.

Reprinted from Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty by Roberta Wilson with permission of Avery Books, a member of Penguin Putnam Inc. Copyright © 1995 by Roberta Wilson.

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