Marjoram

Description
Mayaron is a low permanent herb, but in Slovenia we the plant can only survive the winter in Primorska. We cultivate it as an annual plant. The stem grows up to 20 - 50 cm high, it is upright and widely branched. The stems are fluffy, quadrangular and sometimes in reddish colored. The leaves are small, egg-shaped and sticky. The leaves grow opposite on the stem, seated or short-pinched and gobbled and are hairy on both sides. The flowers are bright red to white and form a classy inflorescence. They bloom from June to August. The branches are collected just before flowering, when it contains the most of the aroma. They are loved  by bees very much. It can be pollinated 2 - 3 times a year. We plant them in March or April. The whole plant is very aromatic. Majaron originates from the Mediterranean, from where it spread across Arab countries and Egypt.

Growth conditions and habitat
The plant needs a lot of heat and sun for growth. The soil should be light, permeable and well stocked with nutrients. It doesn’t require much water and isn’t very demanding.

Culinary use
It contains strong essential oils, mineral substances, bitterness and tannin. Mayaron is said to have an effective natural calming effect. It lowers blood pressure, stimulates mucous membranes in persistent inflammation of the respiratory tract. It regulates digestion and alleviates cramps, which were caused by stress. Essential oil products for external use relieve pain in the joints, muscles and headaches. It has a anti-bacterial and antifungal effect . The plant is used in the form of tea, ointment, oil, brew or as a spice. We use it to spice meat: roast, sausage, lamb and pork. We can also add it to vegetable stews or soups. Majaron is a very common and typical spice in Slovenian cuisine.

Sources:
http://zdravplanet.blogspot.com/2007/12/majaron-origanum-majarona-l.html
Karin Greiner, angelika Weber: Zelišča od A do Ž, Narava d.o.o. Kranj, 2007