The ancient Greeks are said to have planted marjoram over the tombs of the dead to bring peace to their spirits and prevent them from coming back to haunt the living. In early folk belief, marjoram may have been thought to have the power to increase fertility, as newly married couples had coronets made from marjoram flowers placed on their heads. Nowadays, it is best known as a culinary herb but it had several uses in herbal medicine.
It was thought to have the power to cleanse the body of impurities, to purify the blood and to induce perspiration. Measles were treated with it as it was thought to bring out the spots.
Colic was thought to be relieved by it, as were seasickness and stomach upsets. It was used as a sedative, as a remedy for some nervous conditions, and as a stimulant of the appetite. Bronchitis and deafness were thought to respond to treatment by it.
Toothache was considered to be relieved by it if marjoram was applied to the aching tooth externally. Marjoram was also used externally as a liniment and in poultices to bring down swelling and relieve rheumatism.
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