*Marjoram is a perennial plant, Origanum majorana of the mint family Lamiaceae.

*It is also called sweet marjoram or knotted marjoram.

*Fresh or dried aromatic leaves of this plant are used for culinary purposes. It has a mildly sweet taste and adds a sweet pine or citrus flavor to the dishes.

*It is widely used in the Middle East and Mediterranean countries to flavor meat dishes, but also goes well with other vegetable, fish, chicken and other dishes.

*Unlike other herbs, dried marjoram leaves have just as much fragrance and flavor as the fresh ones.

*Buying and storage: Select good quality dried marjoram leaves or make your own by drying the fresh marjoram leaves in shade at home. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place in a cupboard. They keep well for several months.

Is it raw?

Yes, all dried marjoram leaves in the supermarket are raw.

Health Benefits

1. Dried marjoram leaves are low in calories, carbohydrates, fats and proteins. They are widely popular for their aromatic fragrance.

2. Marjoram leaves used for steam inhalation clears the sinuses and nasal and laryngeal congestion. A herbal tea made with marjoram leaves is also used to clear upper respiratory tract congestions.

3. Very good source of beta-carotene, which is a precursor of Vitamin A. It enhances the eye sight, fights against acne, results in smooth radiant skin.

4. Moderate source of Vitamins C and E, which along with beta-carotenes acts as antioxidants, scavenge the free radicals, preserve the integrity of cell membranes and prevent the damage caused by them.

5. Good source of magnesium that helps in relieving fatigue, relaxing the muscles, nerves and blood vessels, thus relieving the symptoms of asthma, migraine headaches, tension, soreness in muscles.

6. Reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases like stroke, atherosclerosis, etc due to presence of good amounts of magnesium that relaxes the blood vessels.

7. Good source of folic acid, which is promotes a healthy heart. It prevents the accumulation of homocysteine, an intermediary metabolite of protein metabolism, which promotes atherosclerosis by reducing the integrity of blood vessel walls and by interfering with the formation of collagen.

8. Moderate source of other B-group vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and B6 that are essential to enhance the energy production from the foods.

9. Good source of other minerals like calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, copper and manganese, which play a very important role in maintaining proper metabolic activities of the body.