Sage
Sage is a well-known aromatic plant that belongs to the mint family.
It is a perennial herb which is characterized by short and bushy growth and grey-green or whitish green oval shaped leaves. The flowers of sage bear assortment of colors, which differ according to the variety of the plant.
Native Land
Sage is native to the Mediterranean Europe where it has been regarded as a natural element that strengthens the brain.
Other Names
It is also known by various other names like common sage, garden sage, white sage, etc. However, the botanical name of sage is Salvia officinalis. This have been derived from the Latin word ‘Salvere”, which means ‘to be in good care and health or save’.
Properties and Benefits
The typical aroma of sage makes it a popular flavoring agent for recipes. The anti-fungal and antiseptic properties of sage make it an excellent natural medicine. Therefore, some of the popular uses of sage include reducing infectious inflammations, balancing hormonal problems in females, treating digestive problems and treating common cold.
Listed below are the most popular uses of sage and therapeutic properties:- The antiseptic, astringent and irritant properties of the oils and tannins present in sage make it an effective remedy for sore throat, mouth ulcers and oral sores. The moisture absorbing properties of sage make it a popular natural deodorant. It is also used for lowering blood pressure. It is used as natural antiseptic for cuts, wounds and shaving nicks. The diaphoretic and expectorant properties of sage make it a great remedy for sinus infections, fevers, colds and bronchitis. It helps in diluting and expelling out phlegm from the body. When used as a digestive supplement it soothes abdominal cramps, reduces gas, improves digestion and increases appetite as it is a natural stimulant and comprises of carminative properties. The estrogenic attributes of sage help in treating a series of feminine problems, such as menstrual cramp, amenorrhea and infertility.
How is Sage Used?
The leaves of sage are often dried and used as condiments. The dry leaves of sage are also used as herbal teas and infiltrates. Fresh leaves are often pounded and the tincture obtained is applied locally to the affected area. Sometimes oils and tinctures extracted from fresh sage are mixed with other medicines and emollients to increase their power.
The Side Effects
Although sage is safe for most people, pregnant women, diabetics and patients suffering from epilepsy are advised not to use the same. Certain varieties of sage can contain toxic chemicals and lead to side effects like vomiting, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, agitation, seizures etc.
Recommended Dosage
Scientific researches suggest that the following dosages of sage can be taken safely:
Oral application:
1 gram of sage is the maximum dosage an Alzheimer’s patient can be administered daily. However, it can be slightly increased to 2.5 mg every alternate day over the time.
Tropical application:
In cases of ailments like herpes and skin sores maximum dosage of 23 mg of sage paste can be applied at a time on the affected area. However, the dosage can be repeated 2 to 4 times in a day as per the intensity of the problem.
