Mode of Sattva

Friday, January 31, 2025

Benefits of Marjoram/Sweet Marjoram (Marwa) Herb in gastrointestinal and liver disorders according to Ayurveda backed by Modern Science (Part-1)

In my previous blog, I have shared non-pharmacological activities and significance of Marjoram according to Ayurveda along with precautions we need to take while consuming this herb (https://thepureknowledge.blogspot.com/2024/09/brief-introduction-of-marjoram-sweet.html). In this blog, ayurvedic significance of this herb in stomach, intestine and liver diseases have been explained, which is backed by Modern science.

Ayurvedic significance of Marjoram backed by Modern Science:

Traditionally, this herb was used in various ailments (1, 2). Various pharmacological activities such as antioxidant activity, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, gastroprotective, antimicrobial (bacterial, fungal, protozoal), anti-inflammatory, anti-platelet, antiatherosclerosis, antitumor, antiulcer, anticancer and antimetastatic anticholinesterase inhibition activity have been reported by modern science as well (1).

These pharmacological activities are due to the presence of phytochemicals (chemical compounds which protects plants from environmental stress, microbial toxins and insects) such as terpenes and phenolic compounds. The plant extracts and essential oil obtained from different parts of plant such as aerial parts (flower, stem and leaves) and seeds are the main source of these phytochemicals (1, 3). These phytochemicals not only provide protection to plants but also give protection to us due to their great antioxidant (4), anti-inflammatory and other pharmacological activities (1, 3, 5, 6).

1. Gastrointestinal Disorder:

Traditional Usage: In traditional medicine, its essential oil was used in gastrointestinal diseases such as indigestion in Turkey. Its leaves were used in gastrointestinal infections in Austria and as a carminative herb (prevent and relieve gas in gastrointestinal tract) in Iran (1). Ayurveda says, it is used as a carminative herb. (7,8). Its essential oil was used in flatulence and indigestion (7). It cures colic pain (when healthy babies cry for very long time, no obvious reason) (8).

Modern Research: This herb is considered as one of the best medicines for gastrointestinal ailments, utilized in different forms like herbal tea or as a seasoning. It is believed to enhance the production of the digestive enzymes after a few minutes of consumption, stimulating the appetite and digestion (9). An in vitro scientific study showed that essential oil of aerial part (flower, stem, and leaves) of this herb exhibit an effect on intestinal relaxation (10).

Scientific studies revealed that dried whole plant and its essential oil has high anti-microbial activity (1, 5). An in-vitro study demonstrated the anti-microbial activity of extracts of aerial parts (flower, stem, and leaves) of this herb to multidrug resistant bacteria Acinetobacter baumannii which is a major cause of nosocomial infections and responsible for outbreaks in intensive care unit such as urinary tract infections, surgical site infections, pneumonia linked to ventilator use and sepsis (11). Moreover, ethanolic ammonium extract of leaves of this herb showed the anti-protozoal activity to Pentatichomonas hominis which infects mammalian digestive tract causes symptoms abdominal symptoms and diarrhea (12).

Studies also confirmed that ethanol extract of aerial parts (of this herb has potential to prevent the ulcer (open sores in stomach and small intestine) (13). Another study showed ulcer healing property of volatile oil and methanolic extracts of leaves of this herb (5, 14). A study on rats showed the beneficial effect of flower extract of this herb on ulcerative colitis (inflammation in large intestine) (15).

In addition to this, this herb shows anti-spasmodic effect in animal study by slowing down the natural movements of gut and by relaxing the muscles in stomach and intestines and control symptoms such as tummy pain and cramp or spasm (16).

2. Liver Health:

Traditional Usage: Ayurveda says, it is beneficial for liver (7).

Modern Research: A study on mice with pesticide induced hepatotoxicity showed the positive effect of essential oil of leaves of this herb when given orally (17). In another studies on rat, aqueous leaf extract of this herb was shown to improve the obesity induce abnormal changes in liver cells and repaired drug induced hepatotoxicity and oxidative stress, respectively (18, 19). Moreover, another study on rat showed the antioxidative and hepatoprotective effects of aerial part extract (flower, stem, and leaves) of this herb when given orally in liver disorders caused by the accumulation of bile fatty acids and other toxins (20).

3. Worm’s Infestation:

Traditional Usage: According to Ayurveda, this herb has anti-helminthic activity (7,8). Helminths are intestinal worms such as roundworms (nematodes), tapeworms, and flukes.

Modern Research: A study with in-vitro assessment and mice experiment showed that essential oil of fresh leaves and stems of this herb has inhibited 80% fecal egg count and adult worm count in seven days when mice were administrated orally with 8mg/ml dose of essential oil (21). Another in-vitro study demonstrated the paralysis and death of earthworm in less than 50 min with even higher dose (150 mg/ml) of ethanol and aqueous leaf extract of this herb (22).

Clinical studies need to be done for further validation of its beneficial effects.

Important Note:

After this research, I came to know that different parts of this herb such as aerial, leaves, roots, stems, flowers, and seeds have different medicinal uses. These medicinal use depends on the extract formulations of different plant parts using different solvents such as water, oil and alcohol by the process called infusion (steeping) and by making decoction. Different extracts from different parts of plants have specific phytochemical profile (23).

In addition to this, essential oils derived from different parts of plants also have different phytochemical profile. These profiles possess different pharmacological activities and hence act as medicine for respectively. Just like any other medicine the pharmacological activity is dose-dependent (20).

Disclaimer: Please take note that I am not a medical specialist. I do my own academic research by studying various scientific articles and try to share information on various foods. The intention is to just raise awareness among common man about the significance of food we eat from Ayurvedic and Modern science perspective.

Any medicinal formulation of this herb mentioned in this article is mainly for educational & information purpose. In no way this should be considered as a recommendation to use. If you are in doubt whether to consume it or not then just plant it in your garden to feel sweet spicy aroma and to keep pests, insects, and reptiles away.

References:

1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5871212/

2. https://sci-hub.se/downloads/2020-09-28/84/bouyahya2021.pdf

3. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363923007_Marjoram_Origanum_majorana_An_essential_oil_with_potential_pharmacological_properties_and_health_benefits

4. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/356134230_Review_on_Methods_Used_to_Determine_Antioxidant_Activity_of_Origanum_majorana

5. https://www.iscientific.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/7-IJCBS-16-09-07.pdf

6. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343652829_An_Updated_Review_on_Traditional_Uses_Taxonomy_Phytochemistry_Pharmacology_and_Toxicology_of_Origanum_majorana

7. https://www.easyayurveda.com/2019/07/16/marjoram-origanum-majorana/

8. Ayurvedic Texts

9. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327585974_Origanum_majorana_L_extract_exhibit_positive_cooperative_effects_on_the_main_mechanisms_involved_in_acute_infectious_diarrhea

10. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874118319160

11. https://fjps.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43094-024-00641-1

12. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286944488_Antimicrobial_and_antiprotozoal_effect_of_sweet_marjoram_Origanum_majorana_L

13. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19606513/

14. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2222180812600681

15. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874123006943

16. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8601825/

17. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24381944/

18. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/377300130_Amelioratory_Effect_of_Aqueous_Leaf_Extract_of_Origanum_majorana_on_some_Liver_Function_and_Histological_Alteration_of_the_Liver_in_Experimentally_Obese_Rats

19. https://bnrc.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s42269-023-01012-1

20. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8121572/

21. https://vetmed.agriculturejournals.cz/pdfs/vet/2020/11/05.pdf

22. https://www.pnrjournal.com/index.php/home/article/view/6250/7959

23. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.2c08295

Thursday, September 12, 2024

Brief Introduction of Marjoram, Sweet Marjoram

(Marwa) Herb

Scientific Name: (Origanum. Majorana Linn.) (1, 2), formerly it was known as Majorana. hortensis (3).

Sanskrit Name: Marubak (1, 2)

Hindi Name: Marwa (1)

Family: Lamiaceae (Mint Family). Lamiaceae family has 200 Genus and Origanum Genus is one of them. This Genus consists of 3500 species spread all over the world (1, 2, 3, 4).

Origin: It is a native to mountains of Mediterranean region and cultivated in many countries of Asia, North Africa, and Europe (1, 5). It requires nearly full sun and dries out quickly so, it requires well drained soil and frequent watering (4).

Marjoram is an aromatic herb, and its leaves, stems, seeds, and essential oils are used in medicine formulations (6, 1, 7). Leaves are used as fresh or dried as a condiment for seasoning or marinating vegetables, soup, salad, and meat dishes (1, 8). Tea is prepared from fresh or dried leaves (9, 8).

Fresh Marjoram leaves are shade dried that changes them into deep grayish-green color from yellow. it’s the leaves are harvested just before flowering because the volatile oil content of leaves is maximum when the plant is harvested before seed formation (4). It is preferable to store the fresh herb inside the deep freezer or refrigerators for extended usage. However, dried marjoram must be stored in properly sealed containers in a cool and dry place where it can be stored for up to six months. Dried leaves of Marjoram tend to retain flavor unlike that of various other dry herbs such as thyme and sage. To maintain the specific level of flavor and fragrance, it is usually added at the final stage of cooking. Sometimes, its flavor and smell are also changed due to all the nearby plants.

Essential Oils are used in medical treatment, aromatherapy, cosmetics, skin care and in packaging materials to protect food from spoilage (5). Aromatic seeds are used in medicinal formulations, food and to make potpourris (4).

The plant can be kept inside home to repel insects (5) and is found to attract honeybees (10).

Image: For reference, you can see image of this herb in article (5, 4). I have also shared image of my Marwa plant.

Nutritional Value:

Marjoram is a rich source of vitamins and minerals that help in promoting good health, if consumed in appropriate amounts. Leaves and floral parts of this herb contain vitamin A and C, which helps in boosting immunity, healing wounds and has antiviral effects (5, 4).

It is rich in magnesium, potassium, folate, and vitamin K. One teaspoon serving of dried marjoram contains:

Calories: 1.63; Protein: 0.076 gm; Fat: 0.042 gm ; Carbohydrates: 0.363 gm ; Fiber: 0.242 gm ; Sugar: 0.025 gm (11)

Marjoram in Ayurveda:

There’s a misconception that it is a type of Tulsi, the fact is, it’s a completely different plant. Moreover, let’s not confuse it with oregano (Origanum Vulgare), which is also referred to as winter marjoram or wild marjoram (11).

Source: Bhava Prakasa Nighantuh

Source: Raj Nighantu

It is penetrating, hot in potency, stimulate digestive capacity, appetizing, dry in nature and light (easy to digest). It is pungent and bitter in taste and pungent in Vipaka (post digested effect of ingested substance). It pacifies Vata and Kapha Doshas and aggravates Pitta Dosha (9, 1).

In further blogs, I will write about the pharmacological activities of Marwa herb as recommended in Ayurveda backed by Modern Science. Below are some of the activities other than medicinal:

1. Used as a Pesticide (microbicide, insecticidal, repellent and fumigant activity):

Traditional Usage: In old Egypt, it was used as a disinfectant (4). The people of Europe used to rub the leaves of this herb on oak furniture and floors to get the fragrant glow on it (4). Ayurveda says, it is used to fumigate pests (9).

Modern Research: Modern science showed the antimicrobial activity of essential oil of aerial parts of this herb (12). Moreover, essential oil of this herb also showed the pesticidal activity and can be used as natural or green pesticide for food crops, but more research needs to be done to evaluate the toxicity to beneficial insects (13). In addition to this, a scientific study showed the anti-termite activity of leaf extract of this herb (14).

2. As Herbicide: A study showed the phytotoxic (adverse effect on plants) activity of aerial parts as well as leaf extract of this herb (12,15). This herb showed inhibitory activity on weeds (unwanted plant found in field) thus, can be used as herbicide. The displayed inhibitory activity was found to be comparable to commercial herbicides (15).

3. As a food preservative :

Traditional Usage: In old Egypt, this herb is used to preserve food (4).

Modern Research: Its essential oil has been used to produce antimicrobial packing film that helps in protecting the food material from microbial spoilage during storage and transportation (20). A study showed that when the active packaging of minced beef was done with the help of paper coated with essential oil, microbial growth reduced up to 12th day of cold storage and meat color and sensory quality was maintained at the consumer acceptability level (16).

4. Functional food, nutritional supplements and nutraceuticals: Modern Science is also experimenting to use this herb as promising functional food, nutritional supplements & nutraceuticals in future.

5. Green-formulated gold nanoparticle: Nanoparticle has been used in medicine for drug delivery or for other purposes. Earlier, it was prepared by using the metals such as silver and gold (17). But preparation process of metal nanoparticle has an adverse effect on human and environment so, green formulated metal nanoparticles are in focus. A study showed the beneficial effect of green formulated gold nanoparticle made with leaves extract of this herb in spinal cord injury in rat (18).

Precautions:

As we have understood that this herb as multiple beneficial effects proven by scientific research, but we need to take certain precautions while using this herb. Below is the list of some major precautions:

1. Excess dose causes burning sensation, stomach irritation and constipation.

2. Avoid in patients suffering from bleeding disorders, piles, heavy periods and in high pitta conditions.

3. Avoid in lactation and pregnancy. This herb stimulates menstrual flow. So, should be concerned during pregnancy (6).

4. Marjoram impedes platelet formation, which is key factor in blood clotting. Thus, it inhibits blood clotting and acts as blood thinners. This may be concerning for anyone especially taking blood thinners (6, 8).

5. Those who have diabetes, consult your doctor before taking Marjoram because it reduces blood glucose level and if you are on medication, it can further reduce your blood glucose level (8).

6. Please consult doctor if you are on any medication.

Myth: There is a notion that this plant should not be grown in house.

In my opinion, this is a misconception perhaps circulated by people who are jealous of the happiness and prosperity of others or it is majorly because of improper use of this herb due to lack of knowledge.

This herb has a long history as both Romans and Greeks used to crown their bridal couple with wreaths of Marjoram in to symbolize the happiness, honor, and love. Greeks loved to take bath in Marjoram oil along with forehead massage (10).

Even, science has proven today that this plant has strong anti-microbial activity and has a calming effect on mind. It keeps reptiles and serpents away according to Ayurveda. Thus, this herb provides a protective shield to a person.

Science is proving that his herb has a potential anti-bacterial to anti-cancer activity. modern researchers are using this herb in the formulation of green gold nanoparticle to use in medicine. The herb is used to flavor as well as to preserve food. Most important, it has a pesticide activity which means it should be grown in the garden, front door, terrace and backyard of home for sure.

Here, I want to share my experience. I have some lizards in my home garden but none of them dare to come in the vicinity of this plant.

Important Note:

After this research, I came to know that different parts of this herb such as aerial, leaves, roots, stems, flowers, and seeds have different medicinal uses. These medicinal uses depend on the extract formulations of different plant parts using different solvents such as water, oil and alcohol by the process called infusion (steeping) and by making decoction. Different extracts from different parts of plants have specific phytochemical profile (19).

Please take note that I am not a medical specialist. I do my own academic research by studying various scientific articles and try to share information on various foods with a simple intension that a common man should become aware of the significance of food we eat from Ayurvedic and Modern science perspective.

I believe, sharing this type of information is my responsibility to make common man physically and mentally healthy. After reading this article, even if a single person starts cultivating this herb, I will feel that I am contributing my share in welfare of the society.

Any medicinal formulation of this herb mentioned in this article is mainly for educational & information purpose. In no way this should be considered as a recommendation to use. If you are in doubt whether to consume it or not then just plant it in your garden to feel sweety spicy aroma and to keep pests, insects, and reptiles away.

References

1. Ayurvedic text

2. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336284382_Critical_Review_of_Controversial_Herbs_of_Surasadi_gana_Mentioned_in_Sushruta_Samhita_Meena_S_Deogade_2_Shivarama_P_Kethamakka

3. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343652829_An_Updated_Review_on_Traditional_Uses_Taxonomy_Phytochemistry_Pharmacology_and_Toxicology_of_Origanum_majorana

4. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/292161091_Origanum_majorana_L_-Phyto-pharmacological_review

5. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/363923007_Marjoram_Origanum_majorana_An_essential_oil_with_potential_pharmacological_properties_and_health_benefits

6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5871212/

7. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267035915_Antigout_and_Antioxidant_Activity_of_Stem_and_Root_of_Origanum_majorana_Linn

8. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/marjoram#what-it-is

9. https://www.easyayurveda.com/2019/07/16/marjoram-origanum-majorana/

10. https://www.iscientific.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/7-IJCBS-16-09-07.pdf

11. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-marjoram