You had a great dance practice yesterday, and you really worked your muscles. But today, you aren’t feeling so great. While yesterday you were blasting through the dance routine, today it hurts to walk up the stairs of your building.
With marjoram essential oil, there is no need to turn to pills to alleviate your sore muscles.
What is Marjoram?
Marjoram is an aromatic herb with notes of pine and citrus. It originated in Cyprus and Turkey, and was a symbol of happiness in Greek and Roman cultures. Its botanical name, Origanum marjorana, means joy of the mountain, and it was believed that Aphrodite, the Goddess of love, wore wreaths of marjoram. It is closely related to oregano.
Marjoram has been used for centuries for healing wounds, as a disinfectant and for preserving foods.
Marjoram for Muscle Cramps and Spasms
Marjoram essential oil has been traditionally used alleviating muscle cramps. That knowledge has been carried to modern times with this same application. When marjoram is applied topically, mixed with a base cream, for several days, muscle spasms relax.
Even for people with chronic spasms, such as in the neck area, have experienced an alleviation of pain when used consistently over several weeks.
How to Prepare Marjoram for Muscle Cramps and Spasms
Choose a base oil with which to mix your essential oil. This is important as pure essential oil can damage the skin as it may cause redness, irritation, and discomfort.
You can dilute marjoram essential oil with olive oil or coconut oil at about 3-5 percent. Mix it well before use, as there may be some separation.
Note that Marjorum has wonderful therapeutical properties, but is a very strong herb. If you choose to use Marjorum essential oil over a long period of time, it is important that you consult with your doctor to prevent any negative side effects.
How to Use Marjorum for Muscle Cramps
Apply about a dime-sized dollop of the mixture to the area that has been experiencing spasms. Rub it in for a few minutes, gently massaging the affected area. Note that rubbing too hard could negatively affect the area, even causing more pain.
The ideal time to use the Marjorum balm is right after taking a shower.
Other Benefits of Marjoram
Marjoram taken in tea form is known to help alleviate digestive issues including flatulence, infections, stomach cramps, diarrhea and constipation.
Additionally, it is often used to treat different bacterial, fungal, and viral infections due to their antiseptic, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
Some initial studies also show that using marjoram oil in a massage could increase white blood cell counts, thus strengthening the immune system as a result of its aromatherapy effects.
Topical marjoram may also help to treat eczema and skin redness.
Conclusions
Marjoram, prepared as a balm with other oils, can be used topically to help relieve muscle cramps caused by intense exercising. While it is beneficial to recuperate from spasms from dancing, it can be used for muscle cramps and spasms caused by any type of exercise.
