The Benefits And Contraindications For Marjoram

Marjoram ( Origanum majorana ) is an herb known in Mediterranean cuisine for its aromatic nature. The plant belongs to the lip flower family and has also become popular all over the world for medicinal use. Have you heard of the benefits and contraindications for marjoram?

As described in an article published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, people cultivate the herb in countries such as Spain, Hungary, Portugal, Germany and France. In general, people use it for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, gastroprotective and antioxidant properties.

In this article we will tell you what it is used for and when not to take it.

The benefits of marjoram supported by science

When it comes to cooking, you can use marjoram to give a good aroma to soups, salads and meat dishes. At the same time, people often use it in traditional medicine to stimulate digestion and alleviate menstrual symptoms. In fact, people claim that it has other benefits as well.

So far, however, there is no solid evidence to consider it as a first-line treatment for diseases. Thus, it should not replace medical treatments, and it is not good to use it as the only alternative to health problems.

If you become ill, it is always best to consult a professional first and foremost. Now that this is clarified, let’s look at the main use.

It helps soothe digestive problems

In natural medicine, one of the most prominent benefits of marjoram has to do with digestive health. According to research published in The American Journal of Chinese Medicine  , this plant has anti-ulcerative properties, possibly due to the content of volatile oils, flavonoids, tannins and other substances.

A study of various herbs published in the Brazilian Journal of Microbiology  also showed that marjoram is useful against foodborne illnesses. In particular, it can help fight the pathogen known as Clostridium perfringens .

It helps to regulate the menstrual cycle

Marjoram is an ally for women’s health, especially when faced with changes in the menstrual cycle. In both extract and tea form, it has shown positive effects to restore hormone balance.

In fact, the results of a randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics highlight that merian tea is beneficial for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. It seems to help regulate hormonal activity and insulin sensitivity.

It helps prevent infections

Many of the benefits of marjoram are attributed to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Thanks to this, the extracts can help prevent and treat some types of infections. In a study shared in Global Advances in Health and Medicine  , marjoram was useful against bacterial growth in the small intestine.

Furthermore, the diluted essential oil has shown interesting effects on fungal infections of the skin. For the time being, we need more evidence to verify these uses, but doctors consider it a safe remedy for most healthy adults.

Contraindications to marjoram

We have already described the main benefits of marjoram. Now it is important to clarify some side effects and possible interactions that the plant may have. If you are in doubt about using it, it is best to consult your doctor.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid marjoram in supplements or tea. According to a publication in the International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology  , it can be harmful in these cases due to its influence on hormonal activity.
• Dietary supplements from this plant can disrupt blood clots. Therefore, doctors advise against taking it if you are being treated with blood-thinning medication or have associated disorders.
• The plant and its extracts interact with diabetes medicines by reducing blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is best to avoid taking it in these cases, unless your doctor approves it.

How to take advantage of marjoram?

If marjoram is not contraindicated for you, you can include it in small amounts in different recipes. You can even combine it with a tablespoon of oil to add to soups, stews, salads, vegetables and meat recipes.

If you take it as a dietary supplement or tea, we recommend that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for ingestion. Whenever possible, it is best to ask your doctor before taking anything regularly.