Marjoram

Crop Guide: Everything You Need to Know about Marjoram 

In this guide, we are going to cover all the need-to-know details about marjoram, including health benefits, recipes, and facts that you can share with your friends and family. 

• What is marjoram?

• What does marjoram pair well with?

• Recipes that use marjoram

• What are the health benefits of marjoram?

What is marjoram?

Marjoram is a herb that is a member of the mint family and is closely related to oregano. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has a sweet and slightly bitter flavor, often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. 

Marjoram has small, gray-green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow on a bushy plant. The leaves can be used fresh or dried and have a fragrant aroma that is similar to oregano. 

It is also commonly used in herbal medicine for its medicinal properties, such as its ability to soothe digestive issues, relieve anxiety, and promote relaxation. 

Fun facts about marjoram

Here are some interesting facts about marjoram:

• Marjoram has been used for culinary and medicinal purposes since ancient times. It was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans as a symbol of happiness and for its healing properties.

• In ancient Greece, marjoram was used to make wreaths for wedding ceremonies, and to decorate tombs.

• The ancient Egyptians believed that marjoram had the power to heal and protect the dead, and it was often included in mummification rituals.

• In the Middle Ages, marjoram was used to ward off evil spirits and protect against the plague.

What does marjoram pair well with?

Marjoram pairs well with a variety of herbs and spices, as well as with many different types of foods. Here are some common pairings:

• Oregano

• Thyme

• Rosemary

• Sage

• Lemon

• Garlic 

• Tomato

Recipes that use marjoram

Marjoram is used to flavor a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. 

Marjoram's mild and sweet flavor complements the pungent and spicy flavor of garlic. Try using marjoram in dishes such as garlic bread, roasted vegetables with garlic, and pasta dishes with garlic and olive oil.

Marjoram pairs well with citrus flavors such as lemon, which can help bring out its sweet and tangy flavor. Try using marjoram in dishes such as lemon chicken or roasted vegetables with lemon and herbs.

Like other herbs, marjoram can be dried and used in a variety of ways beyond eating it fresh. To do so, rinse and dry the herbs and then bundle them together with a band or elastic and hang them upside down to dry for a few days. 

What are the health benefits of marjoram?

Marjoram has a range of health benefits due to its rich nutritional profile and medicinal properties. Here are some potential health benefits of marjoram:

• Digestive health support: Marjoram has been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues such as stomach cramps, bloating, and constipation. It has antispasmodic properties that can help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, which can reduce discomfort and promote healthy digestion.

• Anti-inflammatory effects: Marjoram contains compounds such as flavonoids and terpenes that have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which can contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.

• Packed with antioxidants: Marjoram is rich in antioxidants, including phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which can help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

• Respiratory health support: Marjoram has been used traditionally to treat respiratory issues such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. It has expectorant properties that can help to clear mucus from the lungs and airways, which can promote healthy respiratory function.

• Stress relief: Marjoram has been shown to have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It contains compounds such as terpenes and rosmarinic acid that have been shown to have anxiolytic and sedative effects.

• Cardiovascular health support: Marjoram has been shown to have hypotensive effects, meaning it can help to reduce blood pressure. This can contribute to the prevention of heart disease and stroke.

This Week’s Harvest

This Week’s Harvest is a one-time purchase to taste the season's goodness. It includes vibrant greens, fragrant herbs, crisp microgreens, and hearty root vegetables, all freshly harvested and delivered to your front door. 

Taste This Week’s Harvest for yourself, and then let us know your thoughts. Or, come by for a tour. We are always eager to meet the families we feed and to show off exactly where our food came from.

And we can do so all season long. 

Area 2 Farms offers different harvest subscription options to meet your family’s needs. Check out the 4-Week and the 10-Week Harvest Subscriptions to choose what works best for you.