Marjoram Essential Oil

Latin name: Thymus Mastichina

Part of the plant used : leaves and flowering tops

Source: Spain

Extraction method: steam distillation

Marjoram essential oil is steam distilled from the Thymus mastichina plant, which has a hairy stem, oval leaves, and small, whitish flowers in clusters. The entire plant exudes a strong aroma. This plant is actually wild thyme, but is also known as Spanish wild marjoram. It belongs to the Laminaceae family 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 sweet 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 is known to have been used by herbalists since ancient Greece. The ancient Greeks and Romans crowned bridal couples with marjoram wreaths to symbolize love, honor, and happiness. Marjoram tea with honey was used by singers to preserve their voices.