Wild marjoram (Origanum vulgare) is a perennial from the Lamiaceae family that grows on dry slopes, forest edges, clearings and along paths. It also grows well in clay pots. It grows into a low shrub with erect stems and oval leaves. The flowers of Wild marjoram are painted with a characteristic purple color and they serve as a popular pasture for bees. If we crush the plant between our fingers, it will conjure up the familiar smell of thyme. It blooms from July to September.

Edible parts: whole plant
Use: herbal tea, essential oil, herbal baths, compresses, syrups, liqueurs, aromatic wines

Wild marjoram is an indispensable spice and condiment in the kitchen. We usually use it as a wild substitute for cultivated oregano. Dried shoots of Wild marjoram are never lacking on an Italian pizza or in a classic tomato sauce. It goes well with roasted meat and legumes, and in the garden it acts as a good neighbor to the surrounding vegetables. Interestingly, it has a similar effect as coffee, which is why it is also used as a substitute for the popular caffeinated beverage.
The essential oil of Wild marjoram is popular in flavoring dessert alcoholic beverages (liqueurs, wines…).

Wild marjoram was also ubiquitous in the lives of our ancestors, who loved to decorate their homes with bouquets of this herb. They were supposed to ward off evil spirits and witches.

Wild marjoram has many healing effects that are mild, which is why it can be added to any tea blend. It contains a lot of essential oils, tannins and some bitters, and is best known for its disinfectant effect on the respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. It is used to fight bacterial and fungal infections, as well as stimulates appetite, speeds up digestion and excretion. It helps relieve pain and blood circulation to the skin.

HERBAL DRINK: Tea from Wild marjoram relieves colds and problems with the digestive tract. Wild marjoram is supposed to improve the functioning of the liver and gallbladder and have a detoxifying effect on the body. It has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, as Wild marjoram is known to relieve tension, irritability, stress and anxiety, and generally lead to mental balance.

ESSENTIAL OIL: The essential oil of Wild marjoram contains thymol, fernezole, various terpenes, flavonoids, tannins, bitters and vitamins A and C. It is a rich source of omega three fats, iron, magnesium and polyphenols. The essential oil of Wild marjoram is used for inhalations and infusions, and it should not be missing in a soothing bath, which will have a beneficial effect on both adults and children.

OIL: Mix 4 tablespoons of dried Wild marjoram and half a liter of olive oil. Let the mixture stand for two weeks in a warm place. Wild marjoram Oil helps with rheumatic ailments and ear pain. It also relieves cough and reduces fever. When a headache is troubling you, iapply oil to the forehead and shadow. It also serves as a fragrant massage oil.