Exclusive Guide to Marjoram Essential Oil
Origanum majorana L.
Origin: Egypt
Distilled part: Flowering tops
Extraction method: Steam distillation
Cultivation: Certified Organic farming
Botanically and Biochemically Defined Essential Oil (HEBBD), chemotyped (HECT)
Color: Pale yellow to greenish yellow
Scent: Warm, green, spicy, herbaceous aroma.
Note: Middle note
Plant Family: Lamiaceae/Labiatae
SUPER POWERS
Analgesic
- pain killer, reduces pain
Antibacterial
- kills bacterial growth or prevents bacteria from growing
Antifungal
- prevents or kills
fungus growth
Antiseptic
- prevents or combats bacterial infection
Antispasmodic
- prevents or
relieves spasms
Antiviral
- kills or inhibits the
growth of viruses
Calmative
- sedative calming effect
Digestive
- improves the function
of the stomach, increases appetite, and helps with digestion
Diuretic
- helps to increase the
production of urine
Emmenagogue
- provokes
menstruation when periods are
irregular or missing
Expectorant
promotes the
removal of mucus from the lungs,
bronchi, and trachea airways
Nervine
- strengthens and tones
the nerves and the nervous
system
Sedative
- reduces mental excitement
or irritability, and reduces
physical activity
Vulnerary
- helps wounds to heal
USAGE TIPS
Brain Health
Marjoram oil helps strengthen the brain, and might reduce the chance of forgetfulness
with advancing age. Diffuse 5
drops of Marjoram oil, or mix 4 drops with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of jojoba oil, and massage on either side of the spine and across the shoulders.
Arthritis
A very effective oil that soothes inflammations and at lessening any pain associated with arthritis. Mix 5 drops of Marjoram with 1 tablespoon (15ml) of jojoba oil, and massage into the affected
limb. Pay particularly attention to the joints.
Coughing
Marjoram essential oil provides relief from respiratory spasms and helps to clear mucus and phlegm from the respiratory
tract. Diffuse 5 drops of Marjoram oil, or mix 4 drops with 1 teaspoon (5ml)
of jojoba oil, and massage into the chest area. You can also do a steam inhalation with 3 drops, and inhale deeply for 2-3
minutes.
Flatulence (Gas) or Ingestion
Marjoram oil relaxes the muscles of the stomach ensuring there is no build up of gas in this area. It also helps to regulate the secretion of gastric juices, bile, and stomach acids. Mix 5 drops of Marjoram oil with 1 tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil, and massage on the stomach in a clockwise
direction.
Insomnia or difficult to sleep
Marjoram sedates the nervous system, and you’ll feel a calm and relaxed mind and body. Place 2 drops on your pillow just before bedtime. Or diffuse 4-5 drops
in your bedroom. If you like to take a warm bath before bed, add 5 drops to 1 tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil and add to your bath water.
Irregular periods
One of Marjoram’s Super Powers is that it can stimulate blood flow in the uterine area and regulate the flow of menstruation. Mix 5 drops of the oil with 1 tablespoon (15ml) jojoba oil, and massage into the abdomen in a clockwise
direction. You can also add 5 drops to a hot compress, and drape across the abdomen for 10-15 minutes.
Migraines
Mix 2 drops with 1 teaspoon (5ml) of jojoba oil, and massage into the temples and back of the neck. Marjoram helps to reduce pain, put only use small amounts so you’re not overpower the senses.
Vomiting
Marjoram helps to lessen intestinal cramps, which can cause vomiting. Mix 5
drops with 1 tablespoon (15ml) of carrier oil, and massage on the stomach in a clockwise direction.
Wounds & Cuts
With Marjoram’s powerful antiseptic properties wounds are protected against infection and are healed in a faster rate. Mix 2 drops of Marjoram oil with 1
teaspoon of coconut oil, and gently massage over the affected area. Repeat 2-3 times per day.
Grief
Diffuse 5 drops of Marjoram in times of need. Marjoram oil is beneficial for treating individuals in times of grief. It helps to soothe and calm the senses,
instils feelings of hope, and warm the emotions.
Muscular aches & pains
Marjoram eases tight, painful muscles due to its analgesic and warming properties. Add 5 drops of marjoram oil with 1 tbs. (15ml) of carrier oil, and massage into the affected area.
Poor Circulation
Add 6 drops of marjoram oil in 1 tbs. (15ml) of carrier oil, and add to a warm bath. Immediately after the bath, stand under a cool shower for 20 seconds to further stimulate blood circulation. This can also be done with your feet in a foot bath.
Indigestion
Marjoram oil helps to regulate the secretion of gastric juices, bile, and stomach acids, helping to ensure the proper function of the digestive system. Add 5 drops with 1 tbs. (15ml) of carrier oil, and massage into the chest and stomach area.
Food
Food flavoring (FEMA n°: 2663 / CoE n°: 316n)
Food dosage: 1 drop in a dish for 5 people (never exceed 2%)
Always use essential oil diluted in a suitable medium (for
example: vegetable oil, honey, etc.)
Skin type
Majoram can be used alone or in blends for these skin types:
- Aging
- Oily
- Blemished (pimples, acne or other)
Skincare
Soothing and Calming
Marjoram oil is known for its calming properties. It may help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness associated with conditions like eczema or psoriasis
Antibacterial Effects
The antibacterial properties of marjoram essential oil make it effective in fighting bacteria and other pathogens that can cause skin infections and breakouts. This makes it a great addition to your skincare routine if you are prone to acne or have minor cuts and scrapes.
Balancing Oil Production
Marjoram oil has astringent properties, which can help regulate sebum (oil) production. This may be beneficial for those with oily skin as it can minimize shine and potentially reduce breakouts.
Antioxidant Activity
Marjoram oil is rich in antioxidants, which help protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals can accelerate the aging process, leading to wrinkles and fine lines. Using marjoram oil in your skincare can help maintain a youthful appearance by preventing oxidative stress.
Muscle Relaxation
While not a direct skincare benefit, the muscle-relaxing properties of marjoram oil can indirectly improve skin health. When applied topically, it helps to relax facial muscles, potentially reducing tension lines and promoting a more relaxed and youthful appearance.
Aromatherapeutic Benefits
The calming scent of marjoram essential oil also provides aromatherapeutic benefits. The reduction in stress and anxiety can have a positive effect on the skin, as stress often exacerbates conditions like acne and eczema.
Method of use & Amount to use
Aroma diffusers
Use 5-15 drops in your diffuser or the amount suggested with your diffuser.
Baths, Hot tubs, Jacuzzis
Bath: Diluted 3-8 drops
Start by running your bath as you normally would and keep the bathroom door closed to retain the aroma. Essential oils can be applied directly in their concentrated form or diluted.
For dilution, use a carrier oil, milk, milk powder, vegetable glycerin, seaweed powder, herbal powder, baking soda, salt, or Epsom salts to prevent skin sensitivity.
Add the essential oil to the bathwater, either neat or diluted, then stir the water with your hand to disperse the oil evenly before entering the tub. This method helps distribute the essential oil throughout the bath for a more enjoyable experience.
Hot tubs & Jacuzzis: up to 8 drops
Mix the essential oil into the water thoroughly using your hand. Since essential oils do not dissolve in water, they may leave residues in or around your pipes.
Compresses
3-10 drops in 120 ml of water
Learn more
Face masks, oils, and tonic
Face masks: 1 or 2 drops per 2 tbs. (15ml) of natural facemask.
Face oils: 12 drops in 30ml of carrier oil. For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Use a dark-colored glass bottle, which helps protect your oils from light degradation. First, pour in the carrier oil. If you’re using a single essential oil or a premixed blend, add it directly to the carrier oil. If you’re crafting your own unique blend, mix your essential oils together first, then integrate the desired number of drops into the carrier oil. Remember, a little goes a long way, so only use a small amount for each application. Click here to read more about which carrier oil to choose.
Face tonic: 8-15 drops in 100ml of spring or distilled water or hydrosol.
Combine the oil and water before filtering through an unbleached paper coffee filter.
Our 100% organic and natural hydrosols can be used directly as a tonic. Shut your eyes and spray your face. Or spray a cotton pad and wipe your face with it.
Inhalation from bowl
3-5 drops per bowl of steaming hot water.
To use essential oils in steam inhalation, start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and then removing it from the heat. Add a few drops (typically 3-5 drops) of your chosen essential oil to the hot water.
Carefully lean over the pot, drape a towel over your head and the pot to trap the steam, and breathe deeply for several minutes to inhale the aromatic vapors, which can help relieve nasal congestion and other respiratory issues.
Lotions & Creams
12 drops to each 30 ml of natural, unfragranced lotion or cream.
You can make your own face cream with our neutral face cream as a base. For a 2% (adults) dilution use 40 drops in this 100 ml cream base.
For elderly and children use 20 drops (1%) in 100ml of cream.
Massage oil (for body)
12 drops to each 30 ml of carrier oil.
For elderly and children use 6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil.
Pillows
Place 1-3 drops of essential oil on the corner or underside of a pillow away from the eyes.
Room sprays
As room purifier: 10-20 drops per 475 ml of water.
As a general fragrance: 8-10 drops per 475 ml of water.
Scalp treatments
Add 6 drops in 15 ml of Jojoba oil or aloe vera gel. Shake well. Use 2-3 drops of your prepared blend for each application. Massage into your scalp. Alternatively, simply add the essential oil to a bottle of final rinse water after washing the hair.
Shampoos
5-10 drops in 100ml.
Essential oils can be added to any unscented shampoo that is composed of organic natural ingredients.
Showers
1-5 drops.
First, complete your usual washing routine. After that, apply a few drops of essential oil onto a washcloth or sponge and briskly rub it over your body while standing under the shower's running water. Inhale deeply through your nose to enjoy the aromatic steam, being careful to avoid applying the oil on your face and sensitive areas.
Sprays & Mists for Face and Body
For body: 10-20 drops to each 475 ml of water or hydrosol.
For face: 2-5 drops to each 240 ml of water or hydrosol.
Add the essential oil to warm water or hydrosol. Shake thoroughly, pour through an unbleached paper coffee filter, and place in a spray bottle. Cool before using.
Shake before each use.
Keep eyes closed when spraying the face.
Washes
15-32 drops in 240 ml of warm water.
A wash is a prepared mixture for washing infected areas such as cuts, grazes, and wounds.
Mix the essential oils and water together in a bottle and shake well. Keep it stored in the fridge for no longer than 14 days. Shake before each use.
Aromatherapy's middle notes:
Aromas categorized as middle notes are typically warm, rich, and powerful. Their scent lasts for two to three days.
The body is highly receptive to these fragrances, making them ideal for healing and relaxation. Soothing and restorative.
Middle notes are ideal for healing treatments that require repeated sessions, such as for chronic muscle pain or respiratory issues. They are also effective for treating migraines, PMS, and menstrual pains.
Some middle notes should not be used during pregnancy, so check each oil before use.
Typical middle notes:
Floral oils: Chamomile, geranium, lemon balm, lavender, neroli, jasmin
Warm spicy oils: Clove, nutmeg, anise, black pepper
Herbaceous oils: Fennel, juniper berry, rosemary
Understand the Notes of Scents
In aromatherapy, the scent of an oil is often referred to as a "note." The secret behind a truly great fragrance is finding the perfect balance between the notes. Aromatherapy is about scents, and with practice, you will be able to recognize an oil's fragrance even if you might not know which plant the oil comes from. For example, you will be able to distinguish between citrus and floral scents or woody and minty fragrances. The scent is determined by the chemicals an oil contains. Because oils that smell alike often contain the same chemicals, they typically have similar properties.
Oils are categorized into so-called base, middle, and top notes. Knowing an oil's note is important when blending oils. A good blend—like most perfumes—normally contains a mix of all three notes, where the ratio between them varies depending on what the blend is used for. Additionally, an oil can contain more than one note—for example, ylang-ylang contains traces of all three notes and is often considered the perfect fragrance.
When creating a new fragrance, whether it's for a perfume or an aroma diffuser, you should use between 4-7 oils per blend. First, decide what type of blend you want to create, such as a refreshing one, and then choose notes with these characteristics to make up the main content of the blend. Dissolve the mixture in a carrier oil if you want to use it on the skin (12 drops in 30 ml of carrier oil).
| Blend | Top note | Middle note | Base note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refreshing | 5 drops | 4 drops | 1 drop |
| Relaxing | 1 drop | 6 drops | 3 drops |
| Sensual | 1 drop | 4 drops | 5 drops |
| Balancing | 2 drops | 5 drops | 3 drops |
| Energizing | 8 drops | 1 drop | 1 drop |
LAMIACEAE PLANT FAMILY
Marjoram is part of the Lamiaceae Plant Family
The Lamiaceae family, is a distinguished group in the botanical world, renowned for its aromatic members which are frequently utilized in both culinary and therapeutic contexts. This family includes some of the most beloved herbs and essential oils that are staples in both kitchens and aromatherapy practices.
Habitat and Climate Preferences
Lamiaceae plants are versatile and can be found in a variety of climates, thriving particularly well in temperate regions. They typically prefer sunny locations and well-drained soils. Despite their resilience, these plants flourish in Mediterranean climates where conditions of warm, dry summers and mild winters provide an ideal environment for growth. This adaptability also extends to higher altitudes in the tropics, where several species can often be found.
Regional Adaptations
Globally, members of the Lamiaceae family are widespread. In Europe, herbs like lavender, sage, and thyme are cultivated extensively and have become synonymous with the culinary landscape of the region. North America hosts a variety of native and naturalized species of mint and other Lamiaceae, adapting well to the diverse climates across the continent. Similarly, in Asia, particularly in regions like India, herbs such as basil and patchouli are integral to both the local aromatic profiles and traditional medicine.
Culinary and Aromatic Qualities
The Lamiaceae family's connection to the digestive process is embodied in their common use as culinary herbs. Herbs like basil, oregano, and marjoram are not just flavor enhancers; they also aid in digestion and can alleviate various gastrointestinal discomforts. Their robust, often fiery fragrances stimulate the senses and can reawaken a sense of vitality, making them popular in essential oil form for therapeutic use.
Other Examples of Essential Oils
from the Lamiaceae Plant Family
- Basil and Oregano: Known for their bold, warm flavors in cooking, these oils also offer antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Peppermint and Spearmint: Energizing with a cooling effect, these mint oils are often used for pain relief and to enhance mental clarity.
- Rosemary and Sage: Both are thought to improve memory and cognitive function, in addition to being powerful antioxidants.
- Thyme: Its oil is potent in antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a strong ally during cold and flu season.
- Melissa (Lemon Balm): Known for its soothing properties, it is used to ease stress and help with sleep.
- Patchouli: Often associated with skin care, it also helps in grounding and balancing the emotions.
The Lamiaceae plant family stands out not only for its culinary importance but also for its substantial role in natural health practices. Whether grown in a garden, wild in nature, or distilled into essential oils, these plants continue to impart their invigorating and healing qualities to those who know how to harness their power. The versatility and widespread appeal of the Lamiaceae family make it a foundational element in both traditional and modern herbal practices.
Marjoram Blends Well With These Essential Oils
Basil linalol, bergamot, black pepper, cardamom, cedarwood,
chamomile german and roman, clary sage, cypress, frankincense, geranium,
grapefruit, juniper berry, lavandin, lavender, lemon, lime, orange sweet, peppermint, petitgrain, pine, ravensara,
rosemary, rosewood, sandalwood, thyme linalol, vetiver
The Main Chemical Composition of Marjoram Essential Oil
The main chemical composition of Origanum majorana L, commonly known as Marjoram essential oil are:
Monoterpene Alcohols: This is the dominant group, typically making up the largest percentage of the oil's components. The most abundant monoterpene alcohol in marjoram oil is usually:
Terpinen-4-ol: This compound is believed to be the primary contributor to the calming and anti-inflammatory properties associated with marjoram oil.
Other Components: While smaller in quantity, marjoram essential oil also contains a variety of other chemical compounds, including:
Monoterpenes: These aromatic hydrocarbons may offer various benefits, including potential antibacterial and antifungal properties. Examples include alpha-terpinene and alpha-phellandrene.
Sesquiterpenes: These are another class of hydrocarbons found in smaller amounts within the oil.
What is a Chemotype in Essential Oils?
Chemotypes in essential oils refer to the different chemical compositions that can occur in the same plant species due to variations in their growing conditions, harvest times, or geographical locations. These variations lead to the production of essential oils with distinct chemical profiles, each possessing unique therapeutic properties. Understanding chemotypes is crucial for aromatherapy and medicinal applications, as the efficacy and safety of the oils can vary significantly based on their chemical makeup.
Here's a breakdown of what defines a chemotype and why it matters:
1. Genetic and Environmental Influences: A chemotype is often influenced by the plant's environment, such as altitude, climate, and soil composition, as well as genetic factors. These variables can affect which chemical compounds are predominant in the oil.
2. Chemical Composition: Each chemotype of an essential oil will have a dominant chemical compound or set of compounds that characterize it. For example, Rosemary essential oil can be found in several chemotypes, such as cineole, camphor, and verbenone, each named after its principal component, which dictates its therapeutic properties and uses.
3. Therapeutic Properties: The presence of different chemical compounds means that each chemotype can be more effective for different health concerns. For instance, the cineole chemotype of Rosemary is excellent for respiratory issues due to its expectorant properties, whereas the camphor chemotype is more suited for pain relief and circulatory problems.
4. Safety and Application: Some chemotypes may be safer or more appropriate for certain applications than others. For example, an essential oil chemotype high in ketones might be more neurotoxic and thus used with more caution, particularly around children or pregnant women.
Lavender is Safe to Diffuse around Pets
Pet Safe
If you have dogs and cats in the house, these are the recommendations on how to diffuse your essential oils in a safe way: only use 3-4 drops of a particular essential oil in a water based aroma diffuser (UltraSonic).
Use no more than 4-6 drops total if using more than one essential oil, or use the amount in the diffuser recipes.
Be sure your aroma diffuser is in an area where your pet cannot knock it over. Always diffuse in an open area with the door open so your pet can leave the room if desired.
If your pet is sensitive to an oil you are diffusing, stop diffusing and get your pet outside for some fresh air. Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned.
Storage
Essential oils are sensitive to UV: always keep them in their original bottles (amber glass with codigoutte).
We advise you to store them in a cool place without light after opening.
For your mixtures, cosmetic and culinary preparations, always use a new bottle to avoid interactions.
Disclaimer
This information is intended to educate and inform, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or veterinarian before starting any regime with Essential Oils.
