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All About Marjoram | Know Your Spice Marwa (Majorana hortensis)

All About Marjoram | Know Your Spice Marwa (Majorana hortensis)

All About Marjoram | Know Your Spice Marwa (Majorana hortensis)

All About Marjoram | Know Your Spice Marwa or Maggiorana (Majorana hortensis)

It is also known as pot marjoram, sweet marjoram and knotted marjoram

Marjoram (Majorana hortensis) is a perennial aromatic herb. Its dried leaves & flower tops constitutes the spice.

Also known as sweet marjoram, it is characterized by a strong spicy pleasant odour.

It is an aromatic herb in the mint family that has been grown in the Mediterranean, North Africa, and Western Asia for thousands of years.

While similar to oregano, it has a milder flavor and is often used to garnish salads, soups, and meat dishes. Majorana hortensis is also used in spice seasonings, sausages and salamis.

Since it has a delicate perfume, it can be lost easily while cooking. It is best to add Majorana hortensis shortly before the end of cooking. Its aromatic seeds are used in confectionery.

Sweet marjoram is considered carminative, expectorant and tonic. Its flavour is fragrant, slightly sharp bitterish and camphoraceous.

What are the other names of Marjoram?

Maggiorana names in other languages are given below.
Indian Languages Other Languages
Hindi: Marwa, Kuthara
Bengali: Murru
Gujarati:
Marwa
Malayalam
: Maruva
Marathi: Marwa
Punjabi:
Marsan josh
Sanskrit:
Maruva, Sinshi, Murwo
Tamil:
Vinji
Telugu:
Maruvamu
Latin (Botanical): Majorana hortensis
Arabic: Mardakoush
Chinese:
Mah Yeuk Laahn
Dutch:
Marjolein
French: 
Marjolaine
German: Majoran, Wurstkraut
Italian: Maggiorana
Spanish: Almáraco, Amaáraco
Swedish
: Mejram

What exactly is Marjoram?

Get to know more about Maggiorana or Marwa

Spice card – all about marjoram | know your spice marwa (majorana hortensis)

Marjoram or Marwa (Majorana hortensis) plant is a member of the Lamiaceae (Mint family). It is a perennial aromatic herb.

Majorana hortensis is a native of Southern Europe. Now it is grown widely in Europe, USA, China, Russia, Morocco, North Africa and India.

It grows in any well-drained, fertile garden loam and cultivated as an annual.

The plant is 30-60 cm high and develops a large number of leafy stalks with small leaves.

Leaves are light, greyish green reaching around 21 mm in length and 11 mm breadth. The texture of the leaf is extremely smooth due to the presence of numerous hairs.

The flowers are small, white or pinkish or red. The tops are cut as the plants begin to flower and are dried slowly in the shade. It is often used in herb combinations.

What is the nutritional value of Marjoram?

Find out about the nutritional value of Maggiorana or Marwa (Majorana hortensis)

Majorana hortensis is rich in minerals & electrolytes that are very important for the body’s overall functioning. It is low in saturated fat and sodium, and very low in cholesterol.

It is a very good source of dietary fibre, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B6, Folate, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Copper and Manganese.

It is also a good source of Phosphorus and Potassium.

What is the chemical composition of Marjoram?

Know and understand about chemical composition of Marwa (Majorana hortensis)

The essential oil of Majorana hortensis leaves contains five groups, namely hydrocarbons (61.48%), alcohols (17.87%), esters (10.79%), ketones (4.02%) and phenols (2.66%).

The major identified compounds were α-phyllandrene (8.87%), α-terpinene (7.37%), γ-terpinene (7.25%). Terpinene 4-ol (6.33%), trans-sabinene hydrate (4.00%) & carvacrol (2.25%).

What is the history of Marjoram?

Know more about the origins & the story behind Marwa (Majorana hortensis)

In ancient Greece and Rome, the Majorana hortensis plants were associated with Aphrodite and Venus (respectively).

The Greeks have many myths and gave us the name of this ancient culinary herb: oros ganos, meaning joy-of-the-mountain.

Goddess Aphrodite is attributed with imparting the sweet-spicy smell to the Marjoram herb as a symbol for luck.

Bridal couples were crowned with garlands of Majorana hortensis and plants were placed on tombstones to give rest to haunted spirits.

The Greeks loved the smell after a bath, as Marjoram oil was massaged on their forehead and hair.

Before hops were widely used to make beer, it was Marjoram and oregano (same family) that flavored ales during the Middle Ages.

It is believed that in Latin, even if majorana came from a foreign word – one source speculates that its ultimate origin might be the Sanskrit maruva (which also means “marjoram”)

Maruva pronunciation became confused with the Latin major, “greater.”

What are the uses of Marjoram?

How is Marwa used?
  • Majorana hortensis is added to mouth rinse and its cures inflamed skin wounds and infections.
  • Fresh as well as dry herb is one of the most popular culinary spice. It is used globally in salad, meat and vegetable dishes for flavour.
  • It used as stomachic, spasmolytic, carminative and expectorant agents in folk medicine and in official medicine.
  • It is used as a “nerve tonic” and a “heart tonic,” and to promote better blood circulation.
  • The essential oil is used for coughs, gall bladder complaints, stomach cramps and digestive disorders, depression, dizziness, migraines, nervous headaches, nerve pain, paralysis, coughs, runny nose; and as a “water pill.”
  • It is often used in body care products such as soapslotions, and shaving gel.
  • The essential oil is also used in aromatherapy treatments because of its apparent ability to sooth one to sleep and reduce stress.

What does Marjoram taste like?

What is the the taste of Maggiorana or Marwa?

Marjoram has a flavour that is often described as minty, sweet, or woodsy.


Beetroot salad with balsamic vinegar, garlic and marjoram


What are the ayurvedic properties of Marjoram?

Information about ayurvedic details of Maggiorana or Marwa

Rasa (Taste): Tikta (Bitter), Kashaya (Astringent)
Guna (Qualities): Ruksha (Dry in nature), Teekshna (Strong), Laghu (Light for digestion)
Veerya (Potency): Ushna (Hot)
Vipaka (Taste conversion after digestion): Katu (Undergoes pungent taste after digestion)
Karma (Actions): Vatakapha shamaka (Reduces vitiated Vata and Kapha dosha)


What can I use Marjoram for?

Learn how to use Maggiorana or Marwa in your food & beverages.
  • Make a herbal tea. It is used for various digestion problems.
  • You can consume the leaves raw or cooked.
  • Aromatic seeds are used as a flavoring in sweets, drinks etc.
  • Use the herb for seasoning soups, stews, dressings, and sauces.
  • You can use it for your pizza as well as paste.
  • You can use it for meat dishes, soups, sauces and for flavoring oils and vinegar.
  • Rub it on meat chops before roasting them.
  • Use it to prepare pickles just liked dill.
  • Fresh marjoram with basil is excellent for preparing the tomato salad.
  • You can add fresh leaves to garnishes and sausages, or dried, added to dumplings served with lamb.
  • Flavour your butter with the herb for chicken sandwiches, or with roasted potatoes.

How long does Marjoram last?

Learn about how long does Maggiorana or Zufa last in storage.

Properly stored, marjoram is likely to stay good for three to four years.

How do I store Marjoram?

Learn about how to store Maggiorana or Zufa.

Like all dried herbs and spices, store your marjoram in an airtight container in a cool dark space.

Is there a substitute for Marjoram?

Learn how to use a substitute for Maggiorana or Marwa if unavailable

Fresh oregano is a good substitute for fresh marjoram. Since it has a more pungent and less sweet flavor, use about half the amount of oregano.

Do keep in mind that dried oregano tends to taste even stronger than the fresh one. You can also experiment with sage, thyme, summer savory, or basil as marjoram substitutes.

Where do I buy marjoram from?

Where to Locate Maggiorana or Marwa in the Grocery Store?

Dried herb can be found in the spice aisle of most supermarkets, and you can also find fresh leaves, oil extract, or tea bags at health food and specialty stores.

If buying online try amazon here.

What are the health benefits of Marjoram?

Learn about health benefits of Maggiorana or Marwa (Marjoramus officinalis)

The following are health benefits of Marjoram (Majorana hortensis), Maggiorana or Marwa

  • Health Benefits of Marwa as an Antioxidant – Antioxidants are naturally occurring compounds that help protect cells against damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.
  • Health Benefits of Marjoram against Diabetes – Studies have shown that marjoram is an excellent choice for people trying to manage their diabetes.
  • Health Benefits of Marwa for Heart Health – Marjoram may be extremely beneficial for your cardiovascular health. Studies have found that marjoram is effective in lowering blood pressure without affecting the heart rate.
  • Health Benefits of Marjoram as an Antibacterial & Antifungal Agent – Marjoram essential oil demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal effects against bacteria & fungi.
  • Health Benefits of Marwa as an Anti-inflammatory AgentSeveral compounds in marjoram, such as carvacrol, have been shown to have antioxidant effects. In particular, they may help reduce inflammation in your body.
  • Health Benefits of Marjoram as an Antimicrobial Agent – Extracts and oils from the Marwa plant show moderate antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
  • Health Benefits of Marwa as a Diuretic – Marjoram also has diuretic properties, which increases the production of urine as well as the frequency of urination. As a result, excess water, salts and toxins are flushed out of the system. This also helps in lowering blood pressure.
  • Health Benefits of Marjoram as a Natural Antiseptic – Marjoram essential oil is an efficient antiseptic, which makes it ideal for treating internal and external wounds. It is effective in treating septic conditions and preventing tetanus.
  • Health Benefits of Marwa for Skincare – Leaves of marjoram as well as the essential oils obtained from it are often used in many skin products such as lotions, creams and soaps. This herb is packed with antioxidants, which can help prevent free radical damage.
  • Health Benefits of Majorana hortensis for Digestion – Leaves of marjoram act as a soothing tonic that helps improve the performance of the digestive system. It can boost your appetite and promote digestion by stimulating the production of saliva and digestive enzymes.
  • Health Benefits of Majorana hortensis for Better Sleep – The marjoram by-product, like its oil, helps eliminate snoring, as it promotes the respiratory system and calms the larynx. Marjoram essential oil is a wonderful remedy for people with insomnia, as it has the ability to soothe and calm the mind.
  • Health Benefits of Marjoram against Cancer – Due to the high amount of antioxidant found in marjoram, it is very beneficial for our health and also helps to prevent various types of cancer from our body because antioxidant helps to prevent the oxidative damage to our healthy cells from free radicals
  • Health Benefits of Marwa for Better Immunity – Marjoram is an immunity booster because of the presence of nutrients like vitamin A and vitamin C, both of which also acts as strong antioxidants.
  • Health Benefits of Marjoram as an Emmenagogue – Marjoram oil can help alleviate other symptoms of menstruation like headache, dizziness, and mood swings. Marjoram essential oil also helps prevent premature menopause.

All About Marjoram | Know Your Spice Marwa (Majorana hortensis)
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Marjoram - Marjoram Tea | How to Make Marjoram Tea

Marjoram - Marjoram Tea is full of nutrients and vitamin A & C that are essential to a healthy diet. Marjoram tea has a delicate, citrusy flavor making it especially versatile.
Cuisine World
Keyword Make Marjoram Tea, Marjoram, Marjoram Tea
Servings 1 Serving
Calories 5kcal
Author Sumit Malhotra

Ingredients

  • 1/4 teaspoon marjoram dried
  • 1 cup water boiling

Instructions

  • Boil water and add dried marjoram leaves.
  • Steep for 4 minutes or until fragrant.
  • Strain leaves and pour liquid into tea cup.
  • Serve hot.

Notes

  • You may choose to add jaggery or honey to sweeten the marjoram tea. However, this is totally optional.

Tools & Equipment Used For This Recipe

The links below the image lead to product links on Amazon.in & Amazon.com respectively

Saucepan

Strainer

FInally! To Sum It Up

All About Marjoram (Marjorana hortensis) | Uses & Health Benefits of marjoram

Spice card – all about marjoram | know your spice marwa (majorana hortensis)

Marjoram or Marwa (Majorana hortensis) plant is a member of the Lamiaceae (Mint family). It is a perennial aromatic herb.

Marjoram is a native of Southern Europe. Now it is grown widely in Europe, USA, China, Russia, Morocco, North Africa and India.

Marjoram grows in any well-drained, fertile garden loam and cultivated as an annual.

The plant is 30-60 cm high and develops a large number of leafy stalks with small leaves.

Leaves are light, greyish green reaching around 21 mm in length and 11 mm breadth. The texture of the leaf is extremely smooth due to the presence of numerous hairs.

The flowers are small, white or pinkish or red. The tops are cut as the plants begin to flower and are dried slowly in the shade. It is often used in herb combinations.

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