Focus on Herbs: Sage

by Lynne Latella

"Are you going to Scarborough Fair?
Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme."

The words of this song include references to several important herbs highly prized since ancient times. Ancient Romans and Greeks used these herbs together to preserve meat and cheese. Today, thoughts of sage may evoke fond memories of turkey and dressing because it is a well known kitchen herb. At one time, however this strongly aromatic herb was known as a panacea, used extensively for numerous ailments.

A mint family relative, sage originated in the Mediterranean region and comes from the word "salvia," meaning to be in good health. It was believed to enhance memory and was used for epilepsy, menstrual and stomach disorders and nervous conditions, to name a few. As a bandage, sage's healing properties were believed to help cuts and scrapes.

Today, sage is found not only in culinary and medicinal preparations, but also in perfume as a fragrance and fixative, soap, detergent, potpourri, sachet, cream, powder and lotion. It darkens hair, treats dandruff, is an effective deodorant and works well in facial steams for skin eruptions and in bath preparations to stimulate the skin and check perspiration. It is known to relieve aching muscles and sore feet.

Sage contains antioxidants to kill bacteria, which is why it was so widely used to preserve food from spoilage. Some research has shown that when used in picnic fare, such as hamburgers and potato salad, its properties prolong their freshness. Sage also has antispasmodic, antiseptic, antifungal, diuretic and astringent properties. It has been traditionally used for all types of female-related issues-to encourage conception and to provide support for menstrual difficulties, pregnancy, post-partum and menopausal symptoms. It helps to dry milk production and eases hot flashes and sweats. Regarding perspiration, studies have confirmed that sage oil can reduce sweating up to 50% within two hours. Other conditions in which sage has been shown to be helpful are:

o Colds, sore throat, laryngitis and tonsillitis
o Gingivitis
o Facial eruptions
o Diabetes (Studies have shown that sage reduces glucose levels when drunk on an empty stomach.)
o Indigestion (Sage may help smooth the lining of the digestive tract and discourage flatulence.)
o Nervousness
o Memory loss
o Aching muscles
o Wounds, insect bites (Crushed sage leaves can be temporarily used on the affected area.)
o Constipation (Sage contains mild laxative properties.)

Sage should not be taken during pregnancy, as it is known to dry up milk production. It has been known in a few instances to cause lip or mouth inflammation. For serious conditions, such as diabetes, consult with a doctor to develop a total protocol that may or may not include sage as one element of the program. Sage should not be given to children under age 2. The Coop carries sage in deodorants, lotions, hair conditioners and incense smudge sticks. In bulk, it is available in cut and sifted, ground and rubbed forms

Sage Tea

Infuse 1-2 teaspoons dried sage leaves in 1 cup of boiling water. Steep 10 minutes. Half of the water may be replaced by cider vinegar or malt. Drink up to 3 cups per day as tea for digestion or other conditions, or use as a gargle for laryngitis, tonsillitis or sore throat.

Aftershave Lotion

Steep 1/2-ounce each of sage and rosemary in 1 cup of apple cider vinegar for one week. Strain and add an equal amount of witch hazel.

Sage Soother

Chop a few leaves of fresh sage and place in 1 cup of spring water. Bring just to a simmer, remove from heat and let steep to room temperature. Moisten the face with the liquid to invigorate, or use on the skin to relieve itching.

Hair Tint

Simmer 2 tablespoons each of sage and black tea in 1 pint of boiling water, covered, for 30 minutes. Steep several hours and strain. Rub a little into the hair and scalp daily for gradual darkening. When the desired shade is reached, cut back the applications to twice a week or as needed. Must be prepared fresh each week.

Sage Bath Mixture

Mix 1 ounce each of mint, rosemary, sage and comfrey. Place a handful into a muslin bag, bath ball or directly in the tub. Use very hot water and soak 10-15 minutes. Use a loofah or brush in circular motions from the feet up. Wrap in a towel, but don't dry off. The herb bag can be used several times if stored in the refrigerator.

Memory Tea

Add 1 teaspoon each of rosemary and sage to 2 cups of boiling water. Steep 5 minutes, strain and drink daily. Add honey or maple syrup, if desired.

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