Marjoram

🌿 What is Marjoram?
Marjoram is a fragrant herb from the oregano family with a sweet, floral, and slightly woody flavor. It’s commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines to enhance soups, sauces, and meat dishes.

🤔 Why Might a Sensitivity to Marjoram Occur?
Sensitivity to marjoram may result from:

• Essential Oils: Compounds like terpineol and linalool can irritate sensitive digestive systems.

• Histamines: Marjoram may release histamines, triggering reactions in susceptible individuals.

• Salicylates: Naturally occurring plant compounds that can affect sensitive individuals.

🛠️ What can I do about it?

• Avoid marjoram and marjoram-containing products for 8 weeks.

• Gradually reintroduce marjoram to assess tolerance after elimination.

• Monitor symptoms during and after reintroduction to track improvements.

💊 Supportive General Supplements

Consider:

• Digestive Enzymes: Help process compounds such as linalool and terpineol.

• Probiotics: Support gut health and digestion.

• Quercetin: A natural plant compound that may support responses related to salicylates.

🌟 Why Might I Have a Sensitivity to Marjoram but Not Other Herbs?

Key differences include:

• Essential Oil Content: Marjoram contains specific oils like terpineol, which may not be as concentrated in herbs such as parsley or basil.

• Histamine Release: Marjoram can stimulate histamine production, unlike lower-histamine herbs like chives.

• Salicylate Levels: Marjoram contains higher salicylate levels compared to milder herbs like dill or cilantro.

🍽️ Popular Uses for Marjoram

• Seasoning for meat and fish dishes

• Flavoring for soups and stews

• Herb blends such as Herbes de Provence

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)

• Oregano

• Thyme

• Parsley

• Basil