What Is Oregano? (Is It the Same as Marjoram?) What is oregano? Is oregano the same as marjoram? Oregano is often confused with marjoram Answer Common oregano is botanically known as Origanum vulgare, Greek for "joy of the mountains." It can be found growing wild on mountainsides of Greece and other Mediterranean countries where it is a herb of choice. Also known as wild marjoram, the oregano plant is a perennial which grows up to two feet tall and bears tiny leaves which lend a pungent aroma and strong flavor to a variety of savory foods. When in bloom, the plant sports pink or purple flowers , which are also edible. The leaves are used fresh from the plant or dried. Oregano is one of the few herbs that is stronger when dried than when fresh. Commercially, oregano's biggest market is in perfumes. Oregano, commonly called "the pizza herb," is one of the most widely-used herbs worldwide, so it is hard to imagine anyone not having tried it. However, oregano was virtually unused in America until returning World War II soldiers heightened the popularity of pizza .

In fact, sales of oregano increased by 5200 percent between 1948 and 1956 due to pizza mania. Yet oregano to one person may be something completely different to another, as it is easily confused with its close relative, marjoram. Oregano Confusion There are a number of different varieties of oregano. The strongest is considered to be Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens), which is actually from a different botanical family. Mexican oregano is also known as Mexican marjoram or Mexican wild sage, and if your recipe calls for this specifically, try not to substitute. Spanish (Origanum vivens) and Greek (Origanum heraclites) oregano follow in a depth of flavor. Adding more confusion to the mix is the close relationship between marjoram (Origanum majorana) and oregano, which naturally means they also look very much alike. While its gentler flavor is sweeter and its aroma not quite as pungent, marjoram is often confused with oregano. Sweet marjoram has leaves which are slightly hairy and more gray-green in color.

More about Oregano and Oregano Recipes: Oregano: Mediterranean and Mexican — What's the Difference? | The Kitchn Email When a friend brought us a jar of intensely fragrant oregano from travels to Portugal, we became curious about the different varieties of this herb. What's the distinction between Greek, Italian, Turkish, and Mexican oregano? Do you know which kind you have in your spice cupboard or herb garden? Oregano is generally classified in two categories: Mediterranean and Mexican. Despite the shared name and similar flavors, these are two completely different species. • Mediterranean oregano: A member of the mint family, Mediterranean oregano grows throughout the region, from Greece to Italy, Spain, Turkey, Egypt, and Morocco. It's also known as wild marjoram. Oregano from these areas is robust in flavor, though different varieties may be more bitter, sweet, or peppery than others. Greek oregano tends to be the most savory and earthy, while Italian is milder and Turkish is more pungent. Used fresh or dry, Mediterranean oregano is the choice for dishes from this region, tomato sauces, pizzas, grilled meats, and other dishes with strong flavors.

• Mexican oregano: Mexican oregano is a relative of lemon verbena . Native to Mexico, it also grows in Central and South America and is sometimes referred to as Puerto Rican oregano. Although this herb shares the basic pungent flavor of Mediterranean oregano, it also has notes of citrus and mild licorice. Used fresh or dry, Mexican oregano pairs well with chile peppers, cumin, and paprika. Add it to Latin American dishes, Tex-Mex chili, and salsa. In all cases, it is really worth it to grow your own varieties or seek out good quality dried oregano. As we learned when we tasted the oregano our friend found on his travels, an herb that sometimes seems rather common and mundane can actually be quite complex and extraordinary! History of Oregano... People are Talking! "This is my second order for your oregano and I would like to say that it is the "BEST" I have ever used. It is better, much better, than my own home grown oregano.

I want to thank you people for a superior product that I absolutely love and so do the friends I share it with...God Bless" Charles W., Plainville, Connecticut Synonyms: wild marjoram, origanum Oregano, also known as wild marjoram, is an aromatic, spicy Mediterranean herb sold as fresh sprigs or chopped dried leaves. This popular herb is used to season all types of savory dishes, especially tomato-based recipes. Aromatic, warm and slightly bitter. Oregano largely varies in intensity: Good quality is so strong that it almost numbs the tongue, but the cultivars adapted to colder climate have often unsatisfactory flavor. It belongs to the Labiatae family and bears attractive white to purplish flowers and showy bracts in summer. Oregano tends to be quite variable when grown from seed. Leaves are green to gray-green and may be hairy or smooth. Many species contribute to the oregano herb of commerce, to the extent that oregano should be considered more a flavor than a particular species. European oregano is generally derived from O. vulgare, but other species, particularly O. heracleoticum, Coridothymus capitatus (syn.

Thymus capitatus) and T. mastichina are also used. Mexican oregano (sometimes known as Mexican sage) is derived mainly from Lippia graveolens, but other Lippia species and Coleus, Lantana and Hyptis species contribute to herb of commerce. O. vulgare is widely distributed through Europe to central Asia. Other species mentioned tend to have a more restricted range in western Europe and the Mediterranean region. Oregano herb of commerce sometimes contains flowering tops of plants, but superior quality material generally contains only leaf material. Crop harvest should be carried out before too many yellow leaves appear in the base of the crop and before flower buds appear. Multiple harvests are possible in a season. Subscribe to the OreganoFromItaly.com What is Marjoram? What is Marjoram? Main Image: Marjoram or Sweet Marjoram is scientifically named as Origanum Marjorama (formerly Marjorana hortensis) and belongs to Lamiaceae family. It grows wild in the Mediterranean region and is a perennial herb. Marjoram is also known as "wild Marjoram", " joy of the mountains" and "wintersweet".

Content What are the Side-effects of Marjoram? More than 90% of the world’s supply of Marjoram comes from Egypt and are apparently, one of the oldest known herbs. Marjoram plant grows to a height of about 12 to 18 inches or 30 to 46 cm and are a bit shorter than oregano. The colour of its flowers runs from pink to lavender. Marjoram prefers well-drained soil with bright sun rays, and space to spread. It can easily be grown in the garden and is known to have beneficial effects on other plants. It improves growth and flavour of the plants rising nearby. Aromatic leaves of Marjoram is cultivated for culinary purposes. During the flowering season, tops are cut and dried to prepare several herb combinations such as Za'atar and Herbes de Provence. Besides, flowering leaves and tops are distilled for extraction of an essential oil which is rich in borneol, camphor and pinene. What is the History behind Marjoram? Marjoram is native to Greece and has been cultivated all through the Europe for centuries. It was introduced to the rest of the world by the Spanish. What are the Uses of Marjoram?

Marjoram is an important part of the spice mixture used for sausage. Marjoram is used as seasoning for roasted goose with chestnut. In French, Italian and Greek cooking, Marjoram is extensively used in sauces and meat dishes. Marjoram is also used in various body care products, including skin cream, body lotions, bath bars, body wash and shaving gels. Marjoram is sweeter and milder than oregano. Marjoram can be used as a substitute of oregano. It imparts a milder, sweeter, and a bit earthy flavor to pizzas, spaghetti, sandwiches and burgers. Marjoram should be added immediately before serving, as heating for an extended period reduces its sweet and earthy flavor. What are the nutrients present in Marjoram? Marjoram contains many important phyto- nutrients , minerals and vitamins that are essential for optimal health and wellness. Marjoram are rich in antioxidants derived from its high levels of vitamin C. Marjoram herb has excellent amount of minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, copper, manganese, and zinc . Sweet Marjoram is one of the richest herbal sources of vitamin K which has potential role in bone mass building.

Marjoram herb contains exceptionally high levels of Vitamin A, beta-carotene, lutein, cryptoxanthin and zea-xanthin. Together they play an important role in preventing premature aging and various disease processes. What are the health benefits of Marjoram? Reportedly Marjoram has many medicinal properties such as antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, and its proven ability to clear the lungs . Since ancient times, Marjoram has been used for numerous natural treatments. Marjoram relieves congestion, dry coughs, toothaches, sinus headaches. Marjoram aids digestion too. Marjoram has a recognized role in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by restraining neuronal damage in the brain. Marjoram’s oil soothes sore muscles and sprains. Marjoram improves blood circulation, relaxes and relieves insomnia. The priceless herb has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Known to relieve the symptoms of asthma, Marjoram is extensively used in herbal medicines for the treatment of bronchial disorders. Marjoram is used as a snakebite antidote. Marjoram is used for healing You do not have access to view this node and conjunctivitis.

Concoction of Marjoram is used to treat headache, pre & post menstrual cramps, and nausea. Tincture of Marjoram is used to relive sharp intestinal pains in infants. What are the Side-effects of Marjoram? Although no harm has been reported so far. But Marjoram contains two poisonous chemicals namely thymol and hydroquinone . An overdose during pregnancy might cause uterine contractions. One must always consult health care practitioner if they experience any unusual symptom like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea while using Marjoram. External References Mediterranean Oregano | Wild Marjoram | Italian Oregano Herb PRICING About Oregano - Mediterranean Different from Mexican oregano, our Mediterranean Oregano (Pronounced: oh-REHG-uh-noh) comes from Turkey, where it grows wild. It has a nicely balanced flavor, robust and peppery with slightly bitter flavors similar to rosemary and citrus. Oregano is sometimes also known as Wild Marjoram or “That Italian oregano herb, you know, like on pizza”. It is one of the few herbs that is most fragrant when dried. Its taste is similar to sweet marjoram, though stronger.

Use it in Italian and Mediterranean cuisines on roasted vegetables, meats, fish, pastas, and sauces. Mix it with lemon, olive oil, salt and pepper for a greek dipping sauce for fresh breads. Olive oil, garlic, and oregano forms the flavor base for a wide variety of Italian dishes. In Turkey oregano is served as a finishing spice at the table, along with salt, pepper, and paprika or Aleppo peppers. Oregano’s bold flavor combines well with other strong flavors of the Mediterranean palate. Store dried oregano in your pantry for up to six months before flavors begin to fade. Availability: Usually ships within 1 business days. Product is non-perishable and can ship via Ground service. (0.00) # of Ratings: 0 Log in to rate this item. There are currently no ratings for this item. Be the first to rate this item. Product Questions And Answers *Product Pricing and Weight Specifications This product is priced by the lb. shipped, and you will be charged based on the actual weight of the item shipped, by the price per lb for the product. The total price your shopping cart shows is an estimated charge.

You will not be charged until the product ships, based on the weight that is shipped. The chart below shows estimated weight ranges and actual prices per lb. for this item. SKU Sweet marjoram nutrition facts and health benefits Custom Search Sweet marjoram nutrition facts Sweet marjoram, also known as knotted marjoram, is one of the most popular Mediterranean herbs grown for its culinary and medicinal values since ancient times. It has delicate sweet-flavor, and subtle pungent (spicy) taste; comparatively gentler than oregano (Origanum vulgare). Botanically, marjoram is a member of Labiatae family, in the genus, Origanum. Its scientific name: Origanum majorana. The Labatiacea family also includes some of commonly known herbs and spices such as dill , anise , fennel , cumin, etc. Sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana). Note for soft, oval dark green leaves. Photo courtesy: Larry Hoffman Sweet marjoram is native to Asia Minor (Turkey); however, it grows in plentiful all over the Mediterranean and southern parts of the Europe.

This herbaceous plant is a small woody-stemmed shrub that grows abundantly in well-drained, lime soils. It reaches about 75 cm in height, features hairy stems with soft oval shaped dark-green leaves, and tiny pinkish-white flowers. In general, its leaves can be harvested soon after the flowering buds begins to appear. To blanch, hang harvested stems in dark, dry room for about 7-10 days, then strip leaves from the stems and store inside an air-tight container. Several related species of marjoram grown either for culinary or therapeutic purposes. Pot marjoram (O. onites) has white or pink flowers. Winter marjoram (O. heracleoticum) has strong flavor, similar to that of wild marjoram (O.vulgare). Health benefits of marjoram Sweet marjoram is one of very popular herb, especially in the Mediterranean region. Ancient Greeks used it to make wreaths and garlands who firmly elieved it as a symbol of peace, harmony and happiness. The herb contains many notable phyto-nutrients, minerals, and vitamins that are essential for optimum health and wellness.

The herb parts contain certain chemical constituents like eugenol sabinene, a -terpinene, cymene, terpinolene, linalool, cis-sabinene hydrate, linalyl acetate, terpinen-4-ol and terpineol. Together, these compounds known to work as anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Fresh herb has high levels of vitamin C (ascorbic acid); provide 51.4 µg or 86% of RDA per 100 g. Vitamin-C is one of the powerful natural anti-oxidant help remove harmful free radicals from the body. Ascorbic acid also has immune booster, wound healing, and anti-viral effects. Fresh marjoram herb contains exceptionally high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin-A, cryptoxanthin, lutein and zea-xanthin. 100 g of dry marjoram leaves carry 8068 IU or 269% of DRI levels of vitamin-A. Carotenes, xanthins, and lutein are powerful flavonoid anti-oxidants.

Together, these compounds help act as protective scavengers against oxygen-derived free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) that play a role in aging, and various disease processes. Vitamin-A is known to have antioxidant properties and is essential for healthy eye-sight. It is also required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin. Consumption of natural foods rich in vitamin A and carotenes are known to help protect from lung and oral cavity cancers. Zea-xanthin, an important dietary carotenoid, is selectively absorbed into the retinal macula lutea in the eyes where it thought to provide antioxidant and protective light-filtering functions. It has proven beneficial action against age-related macular disease (ARMD), especially in the elderly. Sweet marjoram is one of the richest herbal sources for vitamin K. 100 g of dry leaves provide about 518% of recommended daily intake. Vitamin-K has a potential role in bone mass building by promoting osteotrophic activity in the bones. It also has established role in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by limiting neuronal damage in the brain. Marjoram herb carry good amount of minerals like iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, copper, zinc and magnesium.

Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids, which helps control heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese is used by the body as a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Furthermore, its dry leaves are an excellent source of iron, contains 82.71 mg/100 g (about 1034% of RDA). Iron is an important co-factor for cytochrome oxidase enzyme in the cellular metabolism. In addition, being a component of hemoglobin inside the red blood cells, it determines the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood. Selection and storage Sweet marjoram can be grown as a potherb. Both fresh as well as shade dried leaves can be employed in the kitchens. Fresh marjoram leaves should feature deep gray-green in color and free from yellow discoloration. Its leaves are at their best when harvested just before flowering. Dry marjoram leaves and seeds can also be marketed in air-seal packets or containers. Store fresh herb inside the refrigerator for extended use. Dried marjoram should be kept in a tightly sealed glass container in a cool, dark and dry place where it may keep fresh for up to six months.

Culinary uses: Wash fresh herb in cold running water or rinse for few minutes to remove any dirtt or pesticide residues. Dried marjoram leaves, in-fact, retain or even has more intense flavor unlike that of other dry herbs like sage , thyme , etc. In order to keep fragrance and flavor intact, it is generally added at the last moment into cooking recipes, since prolonged cooking would results in evaporation of its essential oils. Here are some serving tips: Fresh marjoram can be used as a flavoring in the preparation of salad dressings, soups, stews, marinades as well as in egg and vegetable dishes. The herb gives a pleasant aromatic flavor to vegetables such as spinach , cauliflower , tomatoes , beans, peas , potato and carrots . It mixes well with many other herbs and used with thyme , tarragon , bay leaf , and parsley to prepare "bouquet garni". Sweet marjoram is one of the main additions in sausages, pizza and in poultry stuffing. Marjoram tea is popular drink in the Mediterranean countries.

Medicinal uses of marjoram herb Marjoram herb parts contain many health benefiting compounds in essential oil such as terpenes, linalool, terpineol, carvocrol, linalyl acetate, ocimene, cadinene, geranyl cetate, citral, eugenol, etc. These compounds are known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Marjoram oil has been used to treat minor ailments like flatulence, muscular pain and rheumatism. Eugenol in sweet marjoram (10% of eugenol) has been found to have anti-inflammatory function by acting against the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX), which mediates inflammatory cascade in the body. This enzyme-inhibiting effect of the eugenol makes it an important remedy for symptomatic relief in patients with inflammatory health problems like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. When taken in moderation, it helps relieve menstruation pain and leucorrhoea. Since it increases menstruation flow the herb should not be taken during pregnancy and in menorrhagia conditions.

Essential oils in marjoram herb have also been found to have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial functions by inhibiting many pathogenic bacteria like Staphylococcus, E.coli, shigella, proteus, and Pseudomonas. Sweet marjoram tea helps relieve nausea, flatulence and is thought to have mild anti-septic functions. ( Medical disclaimer ). <<-Back to Herbs from Sweet marjoram . Visit here for an impressive list of healthy herbs with complete illustrations of their nutrition facts, medicinal properties and health benefits. Oregano :: Origanum vulgare Botanical: Origanum vulgare Family: Lamiaceae Oregano, also known as Wild Marjoram or Spanish Thyme, is an important culinary herb native to Eurasia and the Mediterranean. It plays a major role in the Mediterranean diet. The name oregano for the spice and the botanical genus, Origanum for the plant is derived from the Greek words oros - for mountain and another Greek word - ganos, for joy - thus the herb can be said to be "joy of the mountain".

The ancient herbal records say that oregano is referred to as Wild Marjoram, which can be confused with the herb known today as wild marjoram, Thymus mastichina, which is a wild-growing species of thyme." (Incidentally, to correct any confusion between oregano and thyme, read Lisa Bertolini's excellent article on the subject, Oregano vs. Thyme and Dispelling Some Myths ) Oregano has a long history of supporting health use as it contains natural oils and chemicals like thymol, pinene, carvacrol, caryophyllene, and others. In addition, it is packed with iron, manganese, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and K, and fiber. This amazing herb is a rich source of various minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, manganese and iron. Potassium goes a long way in controlling sodium levels to prevent heart diseases, manganese and copper are integral co-factors used by the body for the antioxidant-enzyme superoxide dismutase. Iron prevents anaemia and magnesium and calcium are integral to bone growth and mass build up. In addition, oregano has potent antioxidant properties that fight against cancer and heart disease.

A report published in the Journal of Nutrition indicates that this herb contains a high concentration of antioxidants. In fact, it has been found that its antioxidant activity is 42 times more than that of apples, 12 times more than that of oranges, and four times more than that of blueberries. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition and presented at the International Society of Neuroscience conference in New Orleans found that oregano has potential mood enhancing benefits that can be attributed to its active compounds, carvacrol and thymoquinone. The researchers administered capsules containing different intakes of oregano extract to 20 young healthy men aged 18 to 45. The extract was given two times a day for five days. This caused a noticeable increase in the alpha-1 and beta-1 brainwaves in the subjects. Alpha-1 brainwaves induce relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve learning and concentration. In addition, an increase in beta-1 brainwaves is associated with higher levels of cognitive processing and alertness. The oregano extract also demonstrated to exhibit positive behavioral response in animals, similar to those caused by monoamine-enhancing compounds in humans.

The oregano extract inhibited the reuptake and degradation of monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline). These monoamine neurotransmitters are responsible for regulation of sleep, appetite, and modulation of mood, anxiety, and cognition. A study by the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece revealed that the antioxidants present in oregano, rosemary or vitamin E offer protection against neuronal damage. Manganese, in particular, also contributes to the brain benefits of oregano. The deficiency of this essential trace mineral may affect manganese homeostasis in the brain and cause alteration of neural activity. Plus, omega-3 fatty acids also benefit brain health and help your brain age better. Researchers have found that diets lacking or with reduced intake of this essential fatty acid are associated with higher risk of age-related cognitive decline or dementia. In addition to all this, omega-3 fatty acids can help relieve depression. Culinary Uses for Oregano This spice can be used on meat and fish dishes as it resembles thyme in flavor and aroma. Crush Oregano leaves and add during the last ten minutes of cooking to a dish to bring out the maximum flavor and aroma. Oregano is also used as a meat preservative.

You can store fresh oregano in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure you keep it in a plastic bag. Dried oregano should be stored in a cool, dark place. Cosmetic Uses for Oregano Oregano is a rich source of beta carotenes which actively fight against acne and promotes healthy and smooth skin. A rich source of vitamin C and E along with beta carotenes, these antioxidant properties in oregano scavenges free radicals that damage skin cells and hence prevent early signs of aging. The antioxidant properties of oregano fight free radicals that cause hair loss to effectively prevent it and promote healthy lustrous hair. It is also known to be effective against dandruff. Using Oregano for Wellness Oregano oil and leaf are both strong herbal antibacterial agents due to the high thymol content. Oregano tea is a strong sedative and traditionally used to treat colds, bronchitis, asthma, fevers, and painful menstruation because of antiseptic action. Bile flow is stimulated by the oregano, and the herb also aids in alleviating the discomfort of flatulence and excess abdominal gas.

The dried leaves are used in hot fomentation to painful swellings and rheumatism. Those who are allergic to basil, mint, sage, lavender, and other plants from the Lamiaceae family may be allergic to oregano, too. Clinical Research on Oregano Faleiro, Leonor; et al. (2005). "Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oils Isolated from Thymbra capitata L. (Cav.) and Origanum vulgare L.". J. Agric. Food Chem. 53 (21): 8162�8168." [PMID: 16218659]. Anti-Giardia activity of phenolic-rich essential oils: effects of Thymbra capitata, Origanum virens, Thymus zygis subsp. sylvestris, and Lippia graveolens on trophozoites growth, viability, adherence, and ultrastructure. Machado M, Dinis AM, Salgueiro L, Cavaleiro C, Cust�dio JB, Sousa MD. Parasitol Res. 2010 Mar 9.

[PMID: 20217133]. Inhibition of enteric parasites by emulsified oil of oregano in vivo. Mark Force, William S. Sparks, Robert A. Ronzio. Health Explorations Trust, Scottsdale, AZ, USA (M.F.) and Biotics Research. [PMID: 10815019]. Works Cited: Shruti Goenka "Dried oregano has thirty times the brain-healing antioxidant power of raw blueberries, forty-six times more than apples, and fifty-six times as much as strawberries, making it one of the most powerful brain cell protectors on the planet." - Daniel G. Amen What is Marjoram? (with pictures) What is Marjoram? Originally Written By: Mary Elizabeth Revised By: Angie Bates Last Modified Date: 14 January 2017 Copyright Protected: Can you see through these real-life optical illusions? Marjoram is a perennial herb in the mint family that grows wild in the Mediterranean region. It is used primarily as seasoning in cooked dishes but is also found in beauty and health care products.

Often mistaken for oregano , marjoram is frequently called by many different names, including sweet marjoram, knotted marjoram, joy of the mountains, and wintersweet. The current scientific name for this plant, Origanum majorana, is sometimes used interchangeably with its previous name, Majorana hortensis. Culinary Uses A bittersweet, mild spice, marjoram is common in German and Polish cooking, where it is an important part of the spice mixture for sausage. It is also found in the popular English dish of roast goose with chestnut stuffing . In French cooking, it's often included in mixtures of dried herbs called herbes de Provence, and in Italy and Greece, it is often used in sauces and meat dishes. Marinades, salad dressings, and soups can all benefit from this herb. Bouquet garnis, or bundles of fresh herbs, often include marjoram. Both fresh and dried leaves can be used, and marjoram keeps its flavor well when dried. The fresh herb is usually found in the produce section of the grocery store.

Either thyme or oregano can be used as substitutes, although their flavors tend to be a bit stronger, so cooks may want to use a bit less than the recipe calls for. Ad Health and Beauty Uses Marjoram is used in body care products, including skin cream, bath bars, body lotion , body wash, and shaving gel. Since the leaves are aromatic, their oils are often added to scent these products. The essential oil is also found in aromatherapy treatments, where it is said to be warming and spicy, and to provide a soothing effect. It is often recommended as a treatment for insomnia and stress. Eugenol , a compound found in this herb, has antiseptic and anesthetic properties, meaning that it kills germs and can numb sensation. It can also act as an anti-inflammatory, relieving swelling. Although this compound is present in relatively small amounts in marjoram, the plant is used by some people to treat inflammation and help with digestion; it may be used as a tea to help relieve both flatulence and nausea. Marjoram may also relieve cramps and increase menstrual flow; therefore, most experts recommend that medicinal quantities not be taken during pregnancy.

Gardening The plant can grow to about 12 to 18 inches (30.5 to 46 cm) tall and has green, rounded leaves that give off a pleasant, piney fragrance. The small clusters of flowers, ranging from pink to lavender, normally bloom in July. Once the flowers bud, the leaves can be harvested and used for cooking or medicines. Fresh leaves can be dried by spreading them in a cool, well-ventilated place. Although marjoram is a perennial, meaning that it lives for several years, it usually does not survive cold temperatures. It's native to the Mediterranean region, and does best with hot, relatively dry summers and very mild winters. As a result, it must usually be replanted each year if it's grown outside in cooler places. Marjoram can be grown in pots, however, and moved indoors when the temperature drops. It prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and room to spread. Marjoram vs. Oregano There is a great deal of confusion between marjoram and oregano. They are related plants, but are two different species. They also taste similar, although oregano often has a stronger flavor, and both contain high amounts of antioxidants.

To make it even more confusing, cretan oregano, O. onites, is also called French or pot marjoram and Greek oregano, O. vulgare, is often called wild marjoram. Despite the many similarities, they are not the same plant. Oregano is a hardy perennial that is taller than the more cold-sensitive marjoram. Marjoram also prefers a moister soil. Historical Significance Some people have suggested that hyssop , mentioned in the Passover ritual for marking the door posts and in John 19:29, was actually Egyptian marjoram (O. maru). In Greek and Roman culture, the herb symbolized wealth and happiness and was often used to make wreaths. The plant is also mentioned in Shakespeare’s Sonnet 99, in which the speaker reproves various flowering plants for having stolen their best elements from his love. Ad Cooking With Spices: Oregano - Dr.

Weil's Healthy Kitchen Cooking With Spices: Oregano 2 min Cooking With Spices: Oregano The word oregano comes from the Greek words for mountain – “oros” – and joy – “ganos.” The plant has multi-branched stems with small gray-green, oval leaves and small pink or white flowers. Also known as a wild marjoram , it is native to northern Europe, but now thrives throughout the world. Its savory fragrance and taste have made it a staple of cooking in the Mediterranean region, where it grows perennially. Cultivated in France since the Middle Ages, it became popular in the U.S. only recently. American GIs returning from Europe brought with them a taste for the herb in pizza, pasta and other culinary delights they had discovered in Italy and the Mediterranean coast. The health benefits of oregano include its antibacterial and antioxidant properties: oregano has been used orally to treat respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal disorders, urinary tract infections, headaches and cardiovascular concerns . One study found that components of oregano may have protective effects against the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), perhaps due to their high content of polyphenols.

The volatile oils from this herb have also been used to treat allergies and sinusitis, earaches, cold and flu, and intestinal parasites. Topically, oil of oregano has been used as an antibacterial to treat fungal infections, dandruff , acne , and mouth concerns like canker sores , toothaches and gingivitis . It can also be used to repel and treat insect bites and stings, as well as for steam inhalation therapy. Pregnant women should not take supplements of oregano due to its potential to raise the risk of spontaneous abortion. Oregano contains several phytonutrients – among them thymol and rosmarinic acid – that have potent antioxidant activity. It is an excellent source of vitamin K along with vitamin E , manganese, iron, and calcium . Taken regularly in larger quantities – such as in salads – oregano can also be a good source of fiber. The flavor of fresh oregano is always better than dried versions. When choosing the fresh herb, look for leaves that are a bright green color with firm stems. Store it in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel for up to four days.

You can also freeze it, whole or chopped, in ice cube trays covered in water. Dried oregano kept in a tightly sealed glass container away from light and heat should last up to six months. When it comes to flavoring a dish, oregano works well with savory foods – go above and beyond adding it to pizza and pasta sauces and try it on fresh vegetables, cooked onions or mushrooms, in salad dressings or on an omelet. Remember not to add oregano – fresh or dried – until the end of the cooking process to preserve its flavor. Dr. Weil’s take: I grow oregano in my Tucson garden where it does very well in well-drained soil and strong morning sun. Oregano can also be cultivated in pots if you’re short on space. In addition to the many well-documented uses for the leaves, the small pale purple or white blooms of the Greek oregano variety can be flavorful additions to spring salads. I’ll also brew oregano tea to settle an upset stomach and calm the nerves. I find oregano to be a perfect complement to a big pot of homemade beans.

Add a few leaves to the pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking to impart a rich, earthy flavor. You can also substitute oregano for a robust twist on the more familiar basil pesto. Try these recipes with oregano: Oregano (spices, oils and condiments) spices, oils and condiments Recipes Oregano, also known as wild marjoram, is an aromatic and medicinal herb native to the Mediterranean region. Oregano leaves are small, green, and slightly rounded. They are commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine and are an ingredient in the Herbes de Provence mixture, together with others such as rosemary and lovage. Buying Fresh oregano is found between May and September. It is found in the fresh herb section of supermarkets and sometimes at fruit and vegetable dealers. Dried oregano can be used throughout the year. It is sold in bags or jars in the spice section of supermarkets. Preparation Before using fresh oregano, it should be washed and dried on kitchen paper towels. Because the leaves are small, there is no need to chop them. They can be added to dishes whole.

Cooking Oregano should not be cooked for a long time or it will lose its flavor. It should be added to a dish once it has finished cooking. Use Oregano is a very common ingredient of Italian and Greek cuisine. It is widely used on pizzas and for tomato sauces, grilled meats, stuffings, focaccia, and pissaladière. It can also be used to flavor olive oil. Just add a sprig to a bottle of olive oil and let infuse for a few days before use. Generally, it is suitable for a large number of Mediterranean recipes. Storage A bunch of fresh oregano should be kept in a slightly moistened kitchen paper towel inside a plastic bag in the vegetable crisper drawer of the refrigerator, where it will keep for several days. Dried oregano should be stored in an airtight container in a dry place away from light and heat. Nutritional value Oregano is a herb that contains a lot of vitamins A and C, in addition to iron and calcium. It has been attributed antiseptic properties. Flavor pairings

Question: Which Mediterranean herb is also known as wild marjoram ?
Answer: OREGANO