Marjoram
Common to Mediterranean and the Middle East, marjoram is grown domestically and imported mostly from Egypt. In some Middle-eastern countries, marjoram is synonymous with oregano, and so the names sweet marjoram and knotted marjoram are used to distinguish it from other plants of the genus Origanum.
Marjoram was known to the Greeks and Romans as a symbol of peace, harmony and happiness and was also used to make their wreaths and garlands.
Marjoram is a powerful herb contains exceptionally high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin A, cryptoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. Together, these compounds protect the body against free radicals that cause disease and aging. Zeaxanthin has proven beneficial against age related macular disease especially in the elderly. Marjoram is also one of the richest herbal source of vitamin K, about 518% of recommended daily intake.
Available year round, buy fresh marjoram from supermarkets and garden centers. Sweet marjoram can also be grown in pots at home. Dried marjoram, used sparingly, is an acceptable substitute for fresh. Dry marjoram leaves and seeds can also be marketed in air-seal packs or containers.
Fresh marjoram leaves should feature deep gray-green in color and free from yellow discoloration. The leaves are at their best when harvested just before flowering. Add fresh marjoram near the end of cooking or the heat will destroy its delicate flavor. Marjoram is also a great addition to salads.
Source: www.wikipedia.org, www.nutrition-and-you.com
Image by Forest and Kim Starr available under Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license.
Common to Mediterranean and the Middle East, marjoram is grown domestically and imported mostly from Egypt. In some Middle-eastern countries, marjoram is synonymous with oregano, and so the names sweet marjoram and knotted marjoram are used to distinguish it from other plants of the genus Origanum.
Marjoram was known to the Greeks and Romans as a symbol of peace, harmony and happiness and was also used to make their wreaths and garlands.
Marjoram is a powerful herb contains exceptionally high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin A, cryptoxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin. Together, these compounds..
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