There are two types of marjoram essential oil. The one most commonly used in aromatherapy, Origanum marjorana, better known as ‘sweet’ marjoram, is the oil referred to in all blends or recipes that simply list ‘marjoram’ in this publication. The other essential oil, Origanum vulgare, is more closely related to thyme and oregano, and although sometimes used for aromatherapy, this has different properties and is only used in certain circumstances, when its Latin name is specified.

Two of marjoram’s most valuable uses are as a muscle relaxant and as an anti­spasmodic oil. Added to a bathful of water, applied in massage or on a warm compress, it can help alleviate backache, indigestion, abdominal pain and menstrual problems.

A massage with marjoram (either on its own or in a blend) is also wonderfully soothing for muscles that are tight and sore, for example, after exercise, gardening or from excess tension. Marjoram has analgesic properties, too, which also help to relieve general aches, pains and stiffness. Because of its warming and pain-relieving properties, marjoram can ease stiff joints and help mobilize them, relieve rheumatic pain and warm legs that feel cold or heavy.

In the 17th century, the herbalist Nicholas Culpeper claimed that marjoram ‘helpeth all diseases of the chest which hinder the freeness of breathing’. Used in an inhalation, marjoram helps to clear mucus from the chest and generally relieves the symptoms of colds and respiratory infections.

Stress Antidote

It’s not just marjoram’s ability to relax the body that makes it popular. The oil’s soothing effect on the mind and emotions makes it a good choice for mental stress too. It can have a comforting effect on people suffering from loneliness and grief, and can calm the irritability that comes with being in acute or chronic pain. It is also helpful in blends used for the elderly.

Marjoram is recognized as one of the most sedating and calming oils available – relieving stress, anxiety and a hyperactive mind. Ancient Greek women put marjoram on their heads as a nerve relaxant and possibly to relieve migraine, so the herb’s benefits have been tried and tested far back in history.

An evening bath or a relaxing back massage with marjoram (either by itself or in a blend with other essential oils) can help anyone who is feeling overstressed and finds it difficult to relax or to switch off from work. It can help encourage a good night’s sleep, too. Used as a room fragrances, a few drops in a burner can calm frayed nerves.

Marjoram can also relieve certain types of headaches and migraine, and can be particularly useful for dealing with the irritability and anxiety of PMS.

Aphrodite’s Oil

Like Lavender, marjoram is another essential oil with a distinguished history. The goddess Aphrodite is reputed to have regarded it as a symbol of happiness. The ancient Greeks called it ‘joy of the mountain’ and crowned newly married couples with garlands of the herb to bring them good fortune. On a more practical level they used it both to relax muscle spasms and as an antidote to poisons.

When it arrived in Britain in the Middle Ages, people used marjoram in even more varied ways. For example, they planted it on graves to bring peace to the departed, and monks grew it in gardens as its sedative properties can dampen sexual desire.

Marjoram Blending Advice

For massage, marjoram works well with herbaceous, woody or citrus oils. For healing, don’t worry if the strength of marjoram required slightly overpowers the other oils.

Fortifying Marjoram

• 5 ml diluted marjoram oil
• 10 ml grapeseed or sweet almond oil
• 2 drops frankin­cense essential oil
• 2 drops grape­fruit essential oil

Relaxing Marjoram

• 5 ml diluted marjoram oil
• 10 ml grapeseed or sweet almond oil
• 1 drop sandal­wood essential oil
• 1 drop palma­rosa essential oil
• 2 drops cedar wood essential oil