SAGE

Sage

Botanical Name

Salvia officinalis

Common Name

Sage, garden sage

Family

Lamiaceae

Parts Used

Leaves

Native To

Southeastern Europe, including areas of Spain, Italy, France, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Macedonia, and coastal areas of northwestern Africa, including Morocco and Algeria

Harvesting Guidelines

Sage, scientifically known as S. officinalis, can be grown from either seeds or cuttings. To grow from seeds, plant them at a depth of ½ inch and expect germination in about three weeks. The Shakers from the 19th century recommended sowing sage in rich, well-drained soil with rows spaced 2 feet apart and thinning as needed. It is also suggested to sow new seeds every 3-4 years. In colder climates, garden sage can be protected during the winter by covering it with straw or mulch.

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Sage (Salvia officinalis) is an herb revered for its numerous medicinal benefits and spiritual significance. Known for its earthy aroma and distinct flavor, sage has been used for centuries across various cultures. From ancient rituals to modern herbal remedies, sage continues to play an important role in both folk medicine and scientific research.

In many cultures, sage was believed to possess sacred powers. The Latin name Salvia is derived from the word "salvium," meaning "to save," emphasizing its healing qualities. In European folklore, sage was considered a symbol of wisdom and longevity. It was thought to help improve memory and even prolong life. In fact, some cultures believed that if sage grew in one's garden, it was a sign of good health and prosperity.

For Native American communities, sage held a particularly significant role in spiritual practices. Known for its ability to cleanse negative energy, it became a staple in the ritual of smudging. The act of burning sage and allowing its smoke to envelop individuals and spaces was believed to purify the body, mind, and spirit, warding off harmful influences and promoting healing. This tradition has been passed down through generations and continues to be an essential spiritual practice today.

Sage also symbolizes protection and sacredness in many Indigenous cultures, where it is often used to bless spaces, individuals, and ceremonial objects. Its presence in rituals is considered a way to invoke blessings and positive energy.

The medicinal and spiritual uses of sage date back to indigenous cultures, particularly among Native American tribes. For thousands of years, sage has been a key herb in their traditional healing practices. It was often used to treat various physical ailments, such as digestive issues, sore throats, and respiratory conditions. Sage’s antimicrobial properties made it an effective treatment for wounds and infections. Indigenous people would also use it as a poultice to soothe sore muscles and joints.

As a medicinal herb, sage was often consumed as a tea or used in steam inhalations to treat colds and coughs. The powerful aroma of sage was believed to have a calming effect, helping to soothe the mind and reduce anxiety. Its leaves were sometimes chewed or brewed into a tea to treat digestive disturbances, and the essential oil was utilized for its soothing properties in massage and skin care.

Beyond its physical healing properties, sage was deeply embedded in the spiritual practices of indigenous communities. The smoke from sage was believed to carry prayers to the Creator, helping to maintain spiritual balance and protect the individual from negative energies. Smudging with sage is still widely practiced today as a form of spiritual cleansing and protection.

In modern herbalism, sage continues to be a popular remedy, particularly for its cognitive and mood-enhancing effects. Research has shown that sage can improve memory, concentration, and mental clarity, making it a natural ally in managing cognitive decline. A clinical trial found that sage extract was beneficial for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, showing significant improvements in cognition after just a few months of treatment.

Sage is also commonly used in the treatment of anxiety and depression. Its calming effect on the nervous system makes it a valuable herb for relieving stress and lifting the spirits. Sage’s essential oils have been shown to have mood-boosting properties, and its use as a natural remedy for depression is gaining recognition worldwide.

In addition to its cognitive and emotional benefits, sage is a well-known digestive aid. It helps stimulate bile production, improving fat digestion and easing indigestion. Its carminative properties help reduce bloating and gas, making it an effective herb for alleviating common digestive discomforts.

Sage is also praised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is often used in treating joint pain, arthritis, and muscle aches. The herb’s antioxidant compounds help reduce oxidative stress, supporting overall health and protecting the body from cellular damage.

Sage's versatility extends beyond medicinal uses. It has been used in culinary traditions for centuries to flavor and preserve foods, and it continues to be a favorite ingredient in various dishes. Its leaves add a rich, earthy taste to savory meals, making it a staple herb in kitchens worldwide.

Numerous scientific studies support the therapeutic properties of sage. One of the most well-known studies on sage's cognitive benefits was conducted by researchers in Iran, who investigated the effects of Salvia officinalis extract on patients with Alzheimer's disease. The study found that sage significantly improved memory and cognitive function in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's (Akhondzadeh et al., 2003). These findings have contributed to sage’s growing use in modern treatments for dementia and other cognitive disorders.

Other studies have focused on sage's antimicrobial properties. Research published in the Iranian Journal of Microbiology demonstrated that sage extract was effective in reducing bacterial colonies, particularly Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium commonly responsible for dental plaque (Beheshti-Rouy et al., 2015). Sage’s ability to fight infections and promote oral health has made it a popular ingredient in mouthwashes and dental products.

Sage’s anti-inflammatory effects have also been the subject of scientific investigation. A study published in Phytotherapy Research showed that sage extract reduced inflammation and improved joint mobility in individuals suffering from conditions like arthritis and musculoskeletal pain. The compounds in sage work by modulating inflammatory pathways in the body, offering natural relief for chronic pain and inflammation.

Additionally, sage has been studied for its role in managing menopausal symptoms. A clinical trial published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics found that sage extract helped alleviate hot flashes and other discomforts associated with menopause. The study showed that regular consumption of sage could significantly reduce the frequency and intensity of these symptoms.

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Adult Dose

Infusion: 8 fl oz (1-2 teaspoons dried herb in 1 cup boiling water) 3x/day For menopausal night sweats and hot flashes: 1-2 cups (8-16 fl oz) during the day, with another cup taken 1-2 hours before bedtime

Tincture: 2-4 mL (1:5, 40%) 3x/day

Safety:

Sage is generally considered safe when used appropriately. However, it contains thujone, which, in large doses, may cause adverse effects, including seizures. It should be used with caution by individuals with epilepsy, kidney disease, or high blood pressure. Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should avoid sage, particularly in large amounts, as it may interfere with lactation and could have abortifacient effects at high doses.

Antiinflammatory,Antigalactagogue,Antimicrobial,Antioxidant,Antisudorific,Astringent,Carminative,Choleretic,Circulatory Stimulant,Diaphoretic,Emmenagogue,Expectorant,Nervine,Nootropic,Tonic

Energy

Drying,Warming

References:

• Akhondzadeh, S., Noroozian, M., Mohammadi, M., Ohadinia, S., Jamshidi, A.H., & Khani, M. (2003). Salvia officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: A double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 28, 53-59. DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2710.2003.00463.x

• Beheshti-Rouy, M., Azarsina, M., Rezaie-Soufi, L., Alikhani, M.Y., Roshanaie, G., & Komaki, S. (2015). The antibacterial effect of sage extract (Salvia officinalis) mouthwash against Streptococcus mutans in dental plaque: A randomized clinical trial. Iranian Journal of Microbiology, 7(3), 173-177.

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