In what form is sage used ?
The parts of sage used
It is mostly the leaves of sage that are used, but the stems and roots also have medicinal properties and are sometimes used together or separately. Some indigenous North American tribes also consume white sage seeds.
White sage leaves are dried and then burnt, but are also traditionally used in medicinal preparations, infusions, decoctions, poultices and mother tinctures.
Sage infusions and decoctitions
Sage infusions and decoctions are known to soothe painful menstruation and aid digestion. They are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. In indigenous tribes, women are often given sage after childbirth. Its use for women’s health stems from its haemostatic properties, that is, which slow down bleeding.
Taken in this form, white sage also serves as an antiseptic, to reduce sweating or mucus secretions, and soothe sore throats. It furthermore has diuretic and hormone-regulating properties. Generally speaking, drinking sage infusion does not pose any risk. Decoctions, however, can be quite powerful, and it is advisable to carefully monitor the decoction time. Warning: if the decoction is too strong, it can cause nausea.
Making mother tincture
Mother tinctures are also made from the leaf or root of white sage, with more powerful effects than infusions or decoctions. Before consuming mother tincture, it is recommended that you ask for a herbalist’s advice. The root also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can be used to fight streptococcus or candidiasis.
Poultice
Poultices made from fresh sage are traditionally applied to wounds to stop the bleeding. Sage poultices are safe and can be made at home.
Sage essential oil
Sage essential oil is a powerful remedy. It is generally not recommended to use this oil without a good understanding of aromatherapy. It is a potentially dangerous oil, with a certain degree of toxicity if misused. Remember that to make a small bottle of oil, several dozen kilogrammes of sage are needed.
The chemical composition of the essential oil differs from one species to another, as Franchomme, Jollois and Pénoël have pointed out: “Medicinal sage (Salvia officinalis): rich in neurotoxic ketones, to be differentiated from clary sage (Salvia sclarea), with an amber-based and musky scent, rich in anti-epileptic aromatic esters, and oestrogen-like diterpene diol”. [3]
White sage essential oil is relatively rare and particularly powerful. Should you nevertheless use white sage essential oil, remember to dilute it well, and use very small quantities (a few drops are enough). This oil should never be used in the presence of pregnant or breastfeeding women, or infants.
Main medicinal applications of sage
Medicinal uses
Antiseptic, astringent, digestive, antioxidant, antispasmodic, tonic, oestrogen-like… the list of sage’s medicinal properties goes on. It is thus used in medicinal preparations for the digestive system, the nervous system, the ENT area, and the female reproductive system.
Digestive system
As a digestive plant, sage should be taken after a good meal. It stimulates appetite and soothes stomach aches. It is used to treat gastroenteritis, diarrhoea, bloating and indigestion. It is an antispasmodic and a liver tonic (it is therefore advisable to be cautious when drinking alcohol or taking medication that can saturate the liver).
Memory and nervous system
Sage is used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s and to improve memory (through its effect on acetylcholine), and is also useful for calming agitation. The scientific basis for this application is still under study, particularly with regard to its therapeutic potential in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Sage is also a nervous system tonic.
Respiratory conditions
As an inhalation, infusion, decoction or mother tincture, sage helps treat colds, bronchitis, sinusitis and asthma. Its expectorant properties make it an ally for clearing the chest. Known to soothe sore throats, it is also used to treat laryngitis and pharyngitis.
Fevers and sweats
Sage helps to bring down fever and to reduce associated sweating. It is a remedy for flu and winter ailments.
Immune system
Sage also helps boost our immune systems, which is why it is useful for treating various diseases.
Women’s ally
Finally, sage soothes painful menstruation and the hot flashes associated with menopause, thanks to its oestrogen-like properties. It is also recommended for late or light menstruation (amenorrhea) or premenstrual syndrome, as it is a hormonal regulator and a uterine tonic. In addition to helping fertility, it facilitates childbirth, and is sometimes used to stimulate delivery (expulsion of the placenta). Please note: it is imperative not to consume sage during the first weeks of pregnancy, due to its abortifacient properties.
Cosmetic use of sage
As sage also has antioxidant properties, it has pride of place in cosmetics and anti-aging creams. It is also added to cosmetic preparations for oily skin and hair, due to its astringent properties.
Sage and emotions
Emotionally, sage is recommended to alleviate fatigue, depression and sadness. It is said to invigorate the senses and memory. Scientific research on its cognitive effects is still ongoing.
[3] Franchomme, P, Jollois, R, and Penoël, D. L’aromathérapie exactement. Editions Roger Jollois, 2001