Sage

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

Salvia officinalis (sage, also called garden sage, common sage, or culinary sage) is a perennial, evergreen subshrub, with woody stems, greyish leaves, and blue to purplish flowers. It is a member of the mint family Lamiaceae and native to the Mediterranean region, though it has naturalised in many places throughout the world. It has a long history of medicinal and culinary use, and in modern times as an ornamental garden plant. The common name "sage" is also used for a number of related and unrelated species. Garden sage (Salvia Officinalis) prospers in an alkaline soil in full sun. It is commonly found in dry banks and rocky soil.

Uses

Traditional and modern uses of sage include:

• External use: as a rinse, wash or gargle for inflammation or ulcers of the mouth, gums or throat. 
• Brain: as a tonic for poor memory, headaches, anxiety, depression and confusion.
• Hormonal: to assist with excess hot flushing in the menopause, to reduce breast milk production, to reduce high sugar in diabetes.
• Digestion: to aid excess gas, weak appetite or an over-sensitive stomach
• Circulation: to help with excess sweating or night sweats (taken as a cold tea) 

Therapeutic actions listed by the British Herbal Compendium include:

• Antioxidant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antimicrobial
• weakly spasmolytic
• Astringent
• Antihydrotic (inhibits perspiration)
• Mildly stimulant
• Digestive tonic
• Nervous system tonic

Recent human studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of sage leaf on cognitive performance and mood in healthy young volunteers and cognitive function in elderly patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.

For a more detailed analysis of sage see Pharmacological properties of Salvia officinalis and its components.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein.