Marjoram

MARJORAM, Origanum Majorana L., a herbaceous plant of the Labiatae family, growing wild in Central Asia and North Africa. Cultivated in the USSR in the south (Majorana hortensis Moench). Contains essential oil (0.7-3.5%) and tannins; ash should not exceed 10%. In medicine, the herb is used externally in the form of aromatic pillows and baths, for compresses and gargles, and internally as a stomachicum and carminativum. It is also included in snuff powders. Fresh herb can cause inflammation of the mucous membranes of the eyes. Essential oil (Oleum Majoranae) of a characteristic pleasant odor; contains terpinene C₁₀H₁₆ (up to 40%) and terpineols C₁₀H₁₇OH, almost pure, in small quantities in the form of complex esters. Essential oil is sometimes taken internally as an emmenagogue and in ointments - for rubbings. In folk medicine, M. is also used for delayed menstruation. In industry, M. plays a large role as a spice and seasoning in sausage production (sausage herb). Marjoram has wide application in the perfume and liqueur industries and is exported abroad for this purpose.