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Sweet marjoram is a perennial herb with dark green leaves and small white flowers. It is sought after for its sedating and warming characteristics. It can be found in Egypt, Morocco, Bulgaria, and Hungary. It originated in the Mediterranean, Egypt and North Africa. Sweet marjoram’s essential oil is steam distilled from its leaves and flowers. It has a sweet, spicy aroma that is strong. It is used for its antiviral, digestive, fungicidal and sedative properties.
Sweet marjoram has been used for centuries in different cultures. The Greeks used it in every day life for a cleansing agent; it was used to help relieve muscle spasms and an antidote to poison. It was also used in their burial ceremonies to bring peace to the souls of the dead. The English used it when delivering children as an antiseptic to dissolve germs. They used sweet marjoram leaves in their baths to soften skin, and sweet marjoram oil was used to alleviate symptoms of insomnia, nausea and headaches.
Sweet marjoram is used for many different ailments in today’s aromatherapy. It is usually blended with other essential oils because of its strong mineral content. Sweet marjoram is best when blended with cypress, lavender, Atlas cedar wood, and rosemary. It is used for relieving painful muscles and joints. When used as a blood detoxifier it clears unhealthy toxins. It also improves blood circulation, which promotes healthy arteries and the heart. When used as a tonic, sweet marjoram has the effect to help lower blood pressure. Sweet marjoram is a decongestant and is used to clear mucus from the chest and relieves symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis. It is often prescribed to relieve sinus headaches, migraines and insomnia.
Sweet marjoram is safe for many uses; it is best used when diluted. It is recommended for the elderly for its relaxing qualities. Sweet marjoram is not suitable to be used while pregnant or for small children.
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