Marjoram

Common Name

Marjoram is less well known than its more popular cousin oregano though is often mistaken for it. According to legend, both marjoram and oregano were created by the Greek goddess Venus and enjoyed by Aphrodite. Marjoram was often associated with the happiness of the dead; if marjoram grew naturally on a grave, it was thought the indicate a happy spirit. Often marjoram was planted on or near graves to make sure that spirits moved on in peace.

In ancient times, if you slept with marjoram on or near you, it was believed that you would dream about your future husband or wife. During the Middle Ages, marjoram was carried and displayed at weddings to represent love and honor.

Marjoram is native to Greece, where goats and sheep who graze on marjoram are sold for a premium as they are said to have superior meat. Marjoram has been cultivated throughout Europe for centuries and was brought to the New World by the Spanish.

Marjoram looks similar to oregano, but tastes milder and sweeter and smells of pine and citrus. Marjoram is an under-shrub harvested for its leaves which are then left to dry in the hot shade.

Purported Medicinal Qualities*

Marjoram has many reported medicinal properties stemming from its antiseptic and anti-oxidant qualities, and its reported ability to clear the lungs. Said to relieve the symptoms of asthma, marjoram is used in natural medicine, to treat many bronchial disorders.

Historically, marjoram has been used to:

• Relieve congestion, dry coughs and sinus headaches
• Aid digestion
• Reduce fungus
• Relieve toothaches
• Sooth sore muscles and sprains; oil used topically
• Relax and mildly
• Relieve insomnia
• Improve circulation
• As an anti-bacterial

*Always check with your healthcare provider before consuming, inhaling or otherwise ingesting any non-prescription or prescription natural or homeopathic substance or pharmaceutical. ChefatHand.com is not recommending, suggesting, inferring or otherwise endorsing the use of any herb or spice as a medication.

Culinary/Suggested Use

Marjoram can be used alone or substituted for oregano and will impart a milder, sweeter, and somewhat earthy flavor to a dish. Marjoram loves meat and complements other herbs and herb blends. Add marjoram immediately before serving, as heating it for extended periods lessens its sweet, earthy flavor.  Food for thought:

• Add marjoram to beef stew
• Marjoram complements both fish and poultry
• Add marjoram to tomato based sauces
• Add marjoram to eggs, omelets or quiches
• Add marjoram to potato or egg salad
• Add marjoram to homemade sausages
• Add ground marjoram to salad dressings, dips and herbed butter
• Add marjoram to soups and stews, especially those containing beef

view other A-Z Spices