HERBS: SAGE
Salvia officinalis
Action: Anti-sudorific, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent,
carminative, choleretic, tonic, emmenagogue.
Systems Affected: Brain, nerves, mucous membranes, liver, general
effects on the whole body. Preparation and Dosage (thrice daily):
Dried leaves, dose 0.5-2.0 grams by infusion.
There are several hundred species of Sage distributed throughout the
world, several of which have culinary and medicinal use. The most
important and best known is Salvia officinalis. Native to southern
Europe, it is now cultivated commercially and as a kitchen herb in
many parts of the world.
Well known and frequently employed as a culinary herb, Sage is also
important as a medicinal plant with a wide range of applications.
Primarily astringent and anti-sudorific, Sage is of particular
benefit in slowing the secretion of fluids. Thus it is used for
treating sinusitis, excessive perspiration, night sweats, clear
vaginal discharge and to stop the flow of milk. It is also useful in
diarrhoea, dysentery, the early stages of colds and flu, and for
infections and inflammatory conditions of the respiratory tract and
urinary organs.
Sage is highly effective in reducing the secretion of fluids and
should not be used to excess, as it may slow secretions more than
desired. Hence, except where taken in small tonic doses, it should
not be used for more than a week at a time, but during this period 3
or 4 cups of the infusion may be taken daily.
Sage has a tonic effect on the liver and digestive processes, and on
the brain and mental functioning. It is sometimes used to treat loss
of memory in senility and to counter the effects of mental fatigue
and overwork in students or those engaged in prolonged mental
activity. It is of benefit in nervous conditions such as anxiety and
depression. Combined with Rosemary and Peppermint, it is used to
treat headaches. A half cup of the infusion, made from equal parts
of these herbs (25 to 30 grams per 500 ml of water), is taken every
two hours until relief is obtained.
Externally Sage is effective as an antiseptic gargle for sore throat
and mouth ulcers. It is used as a douche to treat vaginal discharge
and in baths to treat skin problems.
Cautionary Notes: Sage should not be taken by women if pregnant or
breastfeeding, as it may have undesired effects in stimulating the
uterus or reducing lactation.
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HERBAL