Marjoram

Part of the plant used: leaves and tops

Source: Spain

Extraction method: steam distillation

Marjoram essential oil is steam distilled from the plant Thymus mastichina, which has a hairy stem, oval leaves, and small clusters of whitish flowers. The entire plant gives off a strong aroma. This plant is actually wild thyme, but it is known as Spanish wild marjoram. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family in Spain and is not the same as sweet or French marjoram; nor is it oregano, which is also called wild marjoram. 

This oil is said to be more effective than marjoram when used as an expectorant for respiratory tract infections and spasms, as it has antiseptic properties for the upper respiratory tract, but it is not a muscle relaxant or sedative, as sweet marjoram is. 

Spanish marjoram oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and blends well with lavender and bergamot oils to create a relaxing environment. When used in an oil burner or massage oil, this herb is said to calm the nerves and combat loneliness and rejection.

It also aids digestion. Spanish wild marjoram has been known to be used by herbalists since ancient Greece. Ancient Greeks and Romans crowned newlywed couples with marjoram wreaths to symbolize love, honor, and happiness. Marjoram tea with honey was used by singers to preserve their voices.

Essential oil 10ml