WHAT IS SAGE?

Salvin officinalis, commonly known as sage, is a sub-shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It is a minty plant with woody stems and purplish flowers. Some closely related species and cultivars are also called “sage”. Sage has an extensive history in the field of medicine. It was used in ancient Greece and Rome to relieve pain and treat cough, inflammation, and digestive distress. Ancient Egyptian women drank sage tea to improve fertility and ease menopausal symptoms.

WHAT IS SAGE GOOD FOR?

The medicinal applications of sage are well-documented in history. Recent studies have brought more potential health benefits of this plant to light.

• Constant exposure to free radicals can lead to chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Sage is packed with antioxidants, which are chemicals that neutralize free radicals. Sage tea, for instance, is loaded with a powerful antioxidant called “rosmarinic acid”.
• The camphor and carnosol content in sage may help prevent certain types of cancer. More extensive research is necessary, but the preliminary results have been promising.
• Another study also suggests that sage has similar behaviour to metformin—a known drug for the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. Scientists have observed that sage essential oil increases the sensitivity of the liver cells to insulin.
• Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated the anti-bacterial properties of this mint.

IS IT SAFE TO TAKE SAGE DAILY LONG TERM?

Sage is considered a staple herb with no reported adverse effects.

HOW MUCH SAGE DO I NEED?

There is no recommended dosage for sage. However, positive effects were observed in trials that used 280 milligrams (mg) to 1500 mg daily.