Monday, December 25, 2006

Oil of Marjoram

Well, you might see this herb mentioned in some of your recipe before. I bet you sure know this herb if you cook but if you don’t, congrats. Usually, this herb is quite popularly included in soups.

Marjoram comes from the Mediterranean. It is an aromatic bush, approximately 2 feet tall. It belongs to the Labiatae family and is a perennial. Do not mistake this plant for pot marjoram though. The main usage of marjoram is as a digestive, so its frequent inclusion to soups.

The Oil of Sweet Marjoram (Origanum marjorama or Marjorana hortensis) is obtained from the dired flowers heads and leaves of the plant by steam distillations. The oil has sedative qualities and is helpful in the treatment of insomnia and stress (compare this to the effect of chamomile). However, compared to the latter, marjoram has a stronger effect it seems. To achieve this effect, a vaporizer and burner is of use here.

Marjoram is also reputed as an anaphrodisiac, an agent that reduces sexual urge. For those who are over passionate, this oil might be of help to you (Neem Leaves can be of the same usage too, but prolong usage of Neem will result in impotency as one studies suggest).

Used in massage oil, compresses, or baths, it is valuable in the treatment of arthritis, muscular and swelling. I suggest the usage of this herb neat to the affected area as a warm poultice or as a compress of the infusion.

Marjoram oil is analgesic and warming, and this means it can be of help to dysmorrhoea (painful menstruation) by applying as a hot compress to the abdominal area. In addition, marjoram oil is also an Emmenagogue, so it is used to stimulate menstruation.

The oil is also carminative and antispasmodic; it helps to expels wind from the body as well as treating stomach cramps and stomach ache when applied as hot compresses. Also, it helps in soothing bruising and relieves the pain of chilblains.

As with any other oils except for lavender oil, marjoram oil is to be diluted before using. Also, any herbal products shouldn’t be used during pregnancy unless prescribed by herbalists.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

This article is very informative. Keep it up!