Marjoram flower: uses, benefits and practical advice

The marjoram flower is the floral part of marjoram (Origanum majorana), a Mediterranean aromatic plant traditionally consumed as an herbal tea to accompany moments of passing stress and nervousness.

• Marjoram flowers are harvested in summer, at the time of flowering.
• It is listed in the French Pharmacopoeia among the plants used in herbal teas.
• Its sweet and slightly spicy aroma makes it a popular herb in cooking and infusions.
• It is traditionally associated with relaxation and digestive comfort.
• Consult a doctor or pharmacist before prolonged use or if you are currently undergoing treatment.

What is the marjoram flower?

The term "marjoram flower" refers to the small flowers and flowering tops of marjoram, also known as garden oregano. This herbaceous plant grows naturally in the Mediterranean basin and is cultivated in many temperate regions. Its pink to white flowers appear in summer and give off a delicate and much-loved fragrance.

Marjoram belongs to the Lamiaceae family, just like mint, thyme, and lavender. It is closely related to oregano, with which it shares many botanical and aromatic characteristics. The marjoram flower is harvested when ripe, dried, and then used in herbal teas or as a condiment.

The available data is limited: seek advice from a doctor or pharmacist before use.

• Botanical name: Origanum majorana
• Family: Lamiaceae
• Parts used: leaves, flowers, flowering tops
• Origin: Mediterranean basin
• Harvest: from July to September

The marjoram flower and the French Pharmacopoeia

The official recognition of marjoram in France is based on its inclusion in the French Pharmacopoeia. The monograph on herbal teas in the French Pharmacopoeia explicitly lists marjoram (leaf, flowering tops) among the plants that can be used as an infusion [1]. This inclusion is an important reference point for consumers and healthcare professionals.

Furthermore, theANSM also lists Origanum majorana in the context of French homeopathic preparations [2]. These two entries illustrate the place that marjoram occupies in the French phytotherapeutic tradition.

It is important to remember that inclusion in the Pharmacopoeia does not constitute validation of therapeutic efficacy in the medical sense of the term. It attests to a traditional, regulated use. For any health-related use, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

• Listed in the French Pharmacopoeia in the monograph on herbal teas [1]
• Referenced by theANSM under the name Origanum majorana PPH [2]
• Traditional use as an infusion (leaf and flowering tops)
• This does not constitute an endorsement of medical efficacy

How to recognize the marjoram flower?

The marjoram flower is small, white to pale pink, and grows in compact spikes. These inflorescences appear at the top of the plant's stems between July and September. They are surrounded by slightly velvety green bracts, giving them a characteristic appearance.

The fragrance of the marjoram flower is one of its most distinctive characteristics. Sweet, slightly spicy, and subtly camphoraceous, it differs from that of common oregano, which is pungent and more intense. This olfactory difference often allows the two plants to be distinguished by their scent alone.

For bees, bumblebees, and butterflies, the marjoram flower is a valuable source of nectar. Its summer bloom makes it an interesting nectar-producing plant for gardens. If you'd like to learn more about the different forms of this plant, wild marjoram has similar botanical characteristics.

• Small white to pale pink flowers, grouped in panicles
• Characteristic velvety bracts around the flowers
• A sweet, slightly spicy aroma, less intense than oregano
• Flowering from July to September
• Highly valued by pollinators

Traditional uses of the marjoram flower

Marjoram flowers are used in European folk traditions. Its most common use is in preparing a herbal tea or infusion from its dried flowering tops. This beverage is traditionally consumed at the end of the day, in a relaxing and comforting atmosphere.

In cooking, marjoram flowers and dried leaves flavor Mediterranean dishes, meats, vegetables, and sauces. Its milder aroma compared to oregano makes it a versatile condiment, appreciated in both professional and home kitchens.

Marjoram flowers are also used in aromatherapy, in the form of essential oil extracted from the flowering tops. This use is distinct from herbal tea and requires specific precautions. For infusions, the marjoram infusion recipe will provide practical guidelines for preparation.

• Herbal tea or infusion of dried flowering tops
• Culinary condiment (Mediterranean dishes, meats, vegetables)
• Aromatherapy (marjoram essential oil)
• Traditional use in cases of temporary stress and nervousness
• Traditional use for mild digestive discomfort

Prepare a marjoram flower infusion

Marjoram flower tea is made from the dried flowering tops of the plant. To prepare it, pour hot water over the dried flowers and leaves, then let it steep for a few minutes according to your taste. Strain before drinking.

Dried marjoram flowers can be found in herbalist shops, pharmacies, or some specialty food stores. You can also harvest them yourself if you grow the plant in your garden, making sure to dry them properly before use. To find out where to buy fresh marjoram, our guide on where to find fresh marjoram will help you.

Marjoram flower tea can be enjoyed plain or lightly sweetened with honey. It blends well with other calming herbs such as verbena or linden. For more information on preparing this herbal tea, see the section on marjoram tea which details the different methods.

• Use quality dried flowering tops
• Pour hot (not boiling) water over the flowers
• Let it steep for a few minutes according to your taste
• Filter thoroughly before consuming
• Follow the dosage indicated by the manufacturer or recommended by a healthcare professional
• Consult a doctor or pharmacist if you are in doubt

Marjoram flower and temporary stress: a traditional use

Marjoram flowers are traditionally associated with relaxation and coping with periods of temporary stress. This use is rooted in European folk traditions and is also mentioned in traditional herbal medicine. Marjoram tea is often consumed in the evening, in a relaxing context.

It is important to distinguish between temporary stress, which can be managed with traditional herbs, and chronic stress or pathological anxiety, which require medical attention. Marjoram flowers are not a medical treatment and do not replace the advice of a healthcare professional.

To explore the links between marjoram and hormonal balance, the article "Marjoram's Benefits on Hormones" addresses this aspect in depth. If you wish to compare marjoram to oregano in terms of traditional uses, " Oregano and Marjoram: A Comparative Look at Their Benefits" will provide you with useful information.

• Traditional use in cases of temporary stress and mild nervousness
• Herbal tea best consumed at the end of the day
• This is not a substitute for medical care in cases of chronic stress
• Consult a doctor or pharmacist for any prolonged use

Marjoram flower and digestive comfort

In folk tradition, marjoram flowers are also associated with digestive comfort. They are sometimes consumed as an herbal tea after meals to aid digestion or relieve temporary bloating. This use remains traditional and is not a medical treatment.

The aromatic plant contains plant compounds (polyphenols, flavonoids) that give it its characteristic fragrance. These compounds are the reason for the traditional interest in marjoram flowers, but data on their effects on humans remain limited. Consult a doctor or pharmacist if you experience persistent digestive problems.

Marjoram flowers can easily be incorporated into a digestive wellness routine, particularly as an herbal tea after meals. They can be combined with other plants traditionally used for digestive comfort, such as peppermint or fennel, according to the advice of a healthcare professional.

• Traditionally used after meals for digestive comfort
• Marjoram flower herbal tea consumed at the end of a meal
• Limited data available in humans
• Consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent problems

Precautions for using marjoram flowers

Marjoram flowers are commonly used in food as a condiment. However, their use in herbal teas or dietary supplements at higher doses requires certain precautions. Data on the safety of marjoram flowers at high doses is limited.

For pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and people taking medication, data is limited. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before use. Do not exceed the dosage indicated by the manufacturer or recommended by a healthcare professional.

If you are taking any medication, consult a pharmacist or doctor before regularly consuming marjoram flower tea. If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: seek medical advice
• Children: consult a pediatrician or pharmacist
• People undergoing treatment: ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice
• Do not exceed the dosage indicated by the manufacturer
• If symptoms persist, consult a healthcare professional

Shell marjoram flower: another name, the same plant?

You may sometimes encounter the term "shell marjoram" in herbalist shops or plant catalogs. This name refers to a form of marjoram whose bracts surrounding the flowers have a distinctive appearance, resembling small shells. It is a common name that may refer to the same botanical species under another common name.

To avoid any confusion, rely on the botanical name Origanum majorana when making your purchases. Healthcare professionals and herbalists use this Latin name to guarantee the plant's identity. For further information on this topic, the section on sweet marjoram will provide useful details, and the section on the benefits of sweet marjoram details its traditional uses.

• "Shell marjoram": a popular name for marjoram
• Reference botanical name: Origanum majorana
• Rely on the Latin name to guarantee the plant's identity
• If in doubt, consult a herbalist or pharmacist

Buy and store dried marjoram flowers

Dried marjoram flowers are readily available in herbalist shops, pharmacies, organic stores, or on specialized websites. Opt for organically grown products that clearly state which part of the plant was used (flowering tops, leaves). Check the expiration date and the product's origin.

To preserve the dried marjoram flowers, store them in an airtight container, away from light, moisture, and heat. These conditions will help maintain their fragrance and aromatic qualities. Follow the packaging instructions for storage duration.

Avoid preserving fresh herbs in oil: this method of preservation can pose food safety risks. Use only thoroughly dried herbs for any oil-based preparation, and store them in the refrigerator, consuming them promptly. If in doubt, follow food safety guidelines.

• Buy from herbalists, pharmacies or organic stores
• Choose organic products that specify the part used
• Store in an airtight container, away from light and moisture
• Follow the packaging instructions for storage life
• Never use fresh herbs in oil (food safety risk)

Comparative table: marjoram flower, leaf and flowering top

Marjoram flowers in cooking: tips for use

Marjoram flowers are a delicate aromatic ingredient that can be used both fresh and dried in cooking. Their sweet, slightly spicy fragrance complements Mediterranean dishes, white meats, roasted vegetables, and tomato sauces. They are less intense than oregano, making them a more versatile seasoning.

In cooking, fresh marjoram flowers are added at the end of cooking to preserve their aroma. The dried version, which is more concentrated, is added at the beginning of cooking. In both cases, a pinch is enough to flavor a dish. Adjust the amount to your taste.

Marjoram flowers can also be used to garnish salads, fresh cheeses, or flavored oils made with perfectly dried herbs. For flavored oils, use only dried herbs and store in the refrigerator, consuming promptly according to food safety guidelines.

• Add the fresh marjoram flower at the end of cooking
• Use the dried version at the beginning of cooking
• Pair it with Mediterranean dishes, meats and vegetables
• Garnish salads and fresh cheeses with fresh flowers
• For flavored oils: dried herbs only, store in the refrigerator

Marjoram flower: what you need to know

It is traditionally consumed as an infusion in cases of temporary stress and mild nervousness, and is also used as a popular culinary condiment.

Data on its effects in humans remains limited. Marjoram flower is not a medical treatment and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before prolonged use, if pregnant, breastfeeding, for children, or if you are taking medication.

To begin, purchase dried marjoram flowers from an herbalist or pharmacy, and prepare an herbal tea by steeping the flowering tops in hot water for a few minutes. This is the simplest and most traditional way to discover this aromatic plant.

Frequently asked questions about marjoram flowers

What exactly is the marjoram flower?

The term "marjoram flower" refers to the small flowers and flowering tops of marjoram (Origanum majorana), an aromatic plant in the Lamiaceae family native to the Mediterranean basin. These flowers, ranging in color from white to pale pink, appear from July to September. They are used in herbal teas, cooking, and aromatherapy. The marjoram flower is listed in the French Pharmacopoeia in the monograph on herbal teas [1].

Is the marjoram flower the same as oregano?

Marjoram and oregano are two closely related plants, both belonging to the Lamiaceae family, but botanically distinct. Marjoram (Origanum majorana) has a milder, less pungent aroma than common oregano. The marjoram flower is therefore different from the oregano flower, although the two plants share similar culinary and traditional uses. To compare their uses, see our dedicated article.

How to use marjoram flowers in herbal tea?

To prepare marjoram flower tea, pour hot water over dried flowering tops and let it steep for a few minutes, according to your taste. Strain before drinking. Follow the dosage indicated by the manufacturer or recommended by a healthcare professional. This tea is traditionally consumed at the end of the day, in a relaxing context. Consult a doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Where can I buy dried marjoram flowers?

Dried marjoram flowers can be found in herbalist shops, pharmacies, organic stores, and on websites specializing in aromatic plants. Choose organic products that specify the part used (flowering tops). Check the expiration date and the product's origin. You can also harvest it yourself if you grow the plant in your garden, making sure to dry it thoroughly before use.

Does the marjoram flower present any risks?

Data on the safety of marjoram flowers at high doses is limited. For regular use as an herbal tea, consult a doctor or pharmacist, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have children, or are taking medication. Do not exceed the dosage indicated by the manufacturer.

Is it safe to give marjoram flowers to children?

Data on the use of marjoram flowers in children is limited. It is recommended to consult a pediatrician or pharmacist before using marjoram as an herbal tea in children. For any use intended to promote well-being in children, seek the advice of a healthcare professional.

Is marjoram suitable for pregnant women?

Data on the use of marjoram flowers during pregnancy and breastfeeding is limited. It is strongly recommended to consult a doctor or midwife before consuming marjoram flowers as an herbal tea during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What is the difference between fresh and dried marjoram flowers?

Fresh marjoram flowers have a more delicate aroma and are best used at the end of cooking or as a garnish. The dried version is more concentrated in flavor and is added at the beginning of cooking. For herbal tea, dried flowering tops are generally used. Both forms are available depending on the season and where you buy them. Store dried herbs in an airtight container, away from light and moisture.

How to preserve dried marjoram flowers?

Store dried marjoram flowers in an airtight container (glass jar, metal tin), away from light, moisture, and heat. These conditions help preserve their fragrance and aromatic qualities. Follow the packaging instructions for storage time. Never use fresh herbs in oil: use only thoroughly dried herbs and store in the refrigerator, consuming promptly.

Does the marjoram flower have any interactions with medications?

If you are taking medication, consult a pharmacist or doctor before regularly consuming marjoram flower tea. Data on interactions between marjoram flower and medications is limited. Never change your medication without medical advice. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.

Is the marjoram flower officially recognized in France?

The marjoram flower (flowering tops and leaves) is listed in the French Pharmacopoeia in the monograph on herbal teas [1]. TheANSM ( also lists Origanum majorana in the context of French homeopathic preparations [2]. This institutional recognition attests to a regulated traditional use, without constituting validation of therapeutic efficacy in the medical sense.

Can marjoram be cultivated to harvest its flowers?

Marjoram is a relatively easy plant to grow in a garden or pot, in a sunny, well-drained location. It flowers from July to September, the ideal time to harvest the flowering tops. After harvesting, dry the flowers in the shade, in a well-ventilated area, before storing them in an airtight container. Consult a herbalist or healthcare professional for personalized advice on harvesting and use.

Key takeaways

Marjoram flowers are a precious part of a Mediterranean aromatic plant listed in the French Pharmacopoeia. Traditionally consumed as an herbal tea or used as a mild and versatile culinary seasoning, they are also used as a mild and versatile culinary condiment. Marjoram flowers are not a medical treatment and do not replace the advice of a healthcare professional.

To discover the benefits of marjoram flowers, start by preparing a simple herbal tea using dried flowering tops purchased from an herbalist or pharmacy. Let it steep for a few minutes in hot water, strain, and enjoy at the end of the day. Consult a doctor or pharmacist before prolonged use or in specific situations (pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, ongoing medical treatment).

Sources and studies

1. French Pharmacopoeia - Herbal teas (ptisanae) — ANSM, 2020
2. Pharmacopoeia - Homeopathic preparations - French — ANSM, 2024