All About Sage
Sage is a common herb that has been used for centuries as both a spice and for its medicinal properties. Studies have shown sage to improve mood, memory, Alzheimer's related memory loss, and menopausal symptoms. With demonstrated antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral activities, preliminary studies show sage may be effective against mouth herpes. A mouthwash made with sage has also shown to reduced sore throat. In addition, this herb has shown anti-cancer, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic potential.
Fun Fact
Smudging is a common ritual activity to remove the bad energy in a home and involves burning dried sage.
Sage Research
Over 50 research articles have been catalogued on sage, demonstrating a wide variety of therapeutic actions. Human studies have demonstrated improved cogntion, reduced blood sugar levels, and reduced cholesterol activities. In vitro studies have shown strong antimicrobial, antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, and food preserving potential. Further, studies have shown sage to be a beneficial antioxidant that may be effective against certain cancers. The herb may also be spasmolytic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hepatoprotective. Further, it may reduce menopausal symptoms, improve bone density, and reduce anxiety. More studies are warranted on this amazing herb! Click the button below for a detailed review of research.
Sage Herb and Essential Oil
Latin Name: Salvia officinalis
Family: Lamiaceae
Other Common Names
- Dalmatian sage
- Not to be confused with Salvia fruticose, which has high levels of thujone in its essential oil.
- Note: there are many species / varieties of sage around the world.
Plant Description
Sage is a an herbal plant with soft, furry, light green, oval leaves and small purple flowers.
Herb Description
Leaves are prepared fresh or dried. For making a tea, steep 1 Tbsp of dried herb, or 2 Tbsp of fresh herb in 2 cups of boiled water for five minutes. Strain and drink.
Essential Oil Description
Steam distilled oil is pale yellow with an herbaceous, spicy, camphorous aroma.
Key Constituents for Sage (S. officinalis) Essential Oil
*Note there are many chemotypes of sage*
- Camphor
- Thujone / Alpha Thujone / Beta Thujone
- Borneol
- 1,8-Cineole / Cineole / Eucalyptol / Cajeputol
- Beta Caryophyllene
- Camphene
- Alpha / Beta Pinene
- Bornyl Acetate
