
General Information
OTHER NAMES: Majoranae herba, Origanum majorana L
HISTORY: Used in Ancient Greece for medicinal purposes.
PROPERTIES: Antioxidants, antibacterial, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antiulcer, anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and antifungal
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Coughs, runny nose, sinusitis, bronchitis, asthma, flu symptoms
Eyes: Cataracts, eyesight
Cardiovascular: Hypertension, increases circulation (may help with Raynauds)
Gastrointestinal: Indigestion, gallbladder, stomach cramping, carminative, toothache
Genitourinary: Menstruation - may help regulate women's to menstrual cycle, dysmenorrhea, PMS
Musculoskeletal: Muscle spasms, back pain, muscle aches, arthritis, sciatica, joint stiffness
Neurologic: Dizziness, headaches (tension, migraines), dizziness, nerve pain, paralysis
Mental Health: Depression, insomnia, anxiety, headaches
Glucose: Helps lower sugar
Cancer: Antitumor
Other: Diuretic, chills, fever
* * *
SIDE EFFECTS: Can possibly cause cancer after long-term use, occasional skin irritation when applied topically, delayed clotting, increased bleeding, bradycardia (slowed heart rate), hypoglycemia, constipation/bowel obstruction, gastrointestinal ulcers, long-term: liver, and kidney problems.
CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: Those with bleeding disorders, cardiac arrhythmias (especially bradycardia or slow heart rate), allergy to basil, hyssop, lavender, mint, oregano, sage (Lamiaceae plant family), caution in diabetes, and those using diabetic medications (may cause hypoglycemia), ulcers, chronic lung conditions, seizures, urinary obstruction. Potential interactions: with anticholinergics (atropine, antihistamines, scopolamine, antidepressants. Caution with lithium, anticholinesterase inhibitors (Alzheimer’s medication) Aricept, Cognex; anticoagulants (aspirin, Plavix, Diclofenac, Ibuprofen, warfarin, etc), glaucoma medications.
FORMS: Oils (diffused, message), teas
Recommended Brands
No recommended brands available at this time.
Dosage
As directed.
Traditional herbal practices describe small amounts of marjoram used in teas, culinary blends, or aromatic preparations. Modern commercial products vary in strength and formulation, so traditional amounts may not apply to current products.
Herbal dosing is not available on the Epocrates website.
How People Commonly Prepare It
Traditional and modern consumer preparations include:
Tea: Steep 1–2 teaspoons of dried marjoram leaves in hot water for 5–10 minutes
Culinary use: Added to soups, sauces, and savory dishes
Aromatics: Used in sachets, steam inhalations, or potpourri
Topical preparations: Occasionally used in salves or massage oils in folk traditions
Commercial products vary widely, so follow the instructions on the label.
Safety Notes
Generally considered gentle when used in culinary amounts
Avoid during pregnancy unless advised by a qualified professional
May cause irritation in individuals sensitive to plants in the mint family
Keep out of reach of children
Stop use if discomfort or irritation occurs
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose or treat a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com, German Commission e or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
