Sage is a shrub that comes from the Mediterranean region. It's now well known as a culinary herb; raw, cooked or dried, and is used as a medicinal tea. It's commercially grown in the US, Canada, Argentina, Germany and France, but wild sage grows almost everywhere in the Greece.
If you've ever traveled the Greek Islands you recognize the aroma of this herb baking in the hot sun and the beautiful subtle flavour of wild sage which infuses all Greek honey.
What Is Sage?
Sage is a small perennial evergreen which has been used medicinally by ancient Greeks, Romans and Egyptians for thousands of years. Egyptians used it as a fertility aid, while Greeks used it for its ability to stop bleeding and clean wounds, ulcers and snakebites. This herb was a sacred for Romans, harvested for solemn ceremony.
Health Benefits of Sage
Congestion Relief
Research has shown that sage possesses astringent properties. As such, it is now widely used to treat hemorrhoids, blood or phlegm in the urine, excessive breast milk or fluid in the abdomen (ascites). This is because as an astringent, this herb dries excess or accumulated mucus and fluid. It is commonly used for colds, nasal congestion and fever to help dry excess mucus your body produces to expel infection.
Anti-Viral & Anti-Inflammatory Support
Research has also shown Sage fights infection by killing bacteria, fungus and viruses. Due to its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects, it can compliment and support the immune system when dealing with any infection. Research using this herb for the treatment of Herpes has shown reduction in size, number, severity and time between outbreaks of both genital and oral cold sores. Studies using sage have also demonstrated a reduction in pain associated with sore throat. This is because this herb also acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.
Cognitive Health
Sage has been shown to have positive effects on memory and research is showing it has promise in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease.
Menopause Support
In North America, sage is taken as a dietary supplement to treat hot flashes, night sweats, and estrogen loss, as well as a tonic for fighting fatigue and nervous exhaustion, thus making it a common supplement for women suffering menopausal symptoms.
Sage tea also has an effect on mood. This is helpful in many conditions, especially menopause when altered hormones can affect mood. This also applies to teen hormonal changes and hormonal conditions like PMS. Sage tea also has an effect on boosting your mental alertness and helps reduce anxiety.
Metabolism Booster
Some new research suggests this tea may even boost your metabolism which helps with weight loss. For best results drink this tea within an hour of waking either on an empty stomach or with your breakfast.
Using Sage Supplements
The typical dose for dried sage leaf is 4-6 grams/day in capsule form. As a liquid extract (1:2) 2-5 ml/day is recommended. As a tea, you can mix it with green tea for added flavour and health benefits. Sage tea can be drunk as often as you like – either hot or iced. There are no safety issues or contraindications with the use of this herb. But due to a lack of research it is not recommended in pregnancy or lactation (unless it is used during weaning period to dry up milk supply).
