S

age is a member of the mint family and there are over 750 different varieties of sage scattered across our planet. The sage varieties used as herbs stem from the Mediterranean and Asia Minor and Sage has been grown in Central Europe since the Middle Ages.

The genus name, Salvia, comes from the Latin for "to cure or to heal." Indeed this herb is highly regarded for its healing qualities. An ancient proverb states: “Why should a man die who has sage in his garden?” Why indeed?

The ancient Greeks used it to treat consumption, ulcers and snake bites. A tea made from the leaves provides soothing, healing relief for sore throat, loss of voice and tonsillitis, as well as helping to remove mucus from congested lungs.

Sage is known by other common names as Narrow-Leaved Sage, Garden Sage, Dalmatian Sage, Kitchen Sage, and Spanish Sage .

Although the effectiveness of Sage is often open to debate, it has been recommended at one time or another for virtually every ailment. There are many medicinal uses for this important herb.

Modern evidence supports its effects as an antihydrotic, antibiotic, antifungal, antispasmodic, estrogenic, hypoglycemic, tonic, aromatic, carminative, spasmolytic, antiseptic, and astringent.

Because of its antiseptic qualities, sage tea is used as a gargle for a sore throat. Sage tea may be of value to people with diabetes as it boost’s insulin's action. Drinking sage tea in conjunction with insulin treatments is beneficial as it lowers blood sugar in diabetics.

Sage is helpful with flatulent dyspepsia, pharyngitis, uvulitis, stomatitis, gingivitis, excessive salivation, glossitis, as a gargle or mouthwash specifically for inflammations of the mouth, gums, tongue or throat; hyperhydrosis, galactorrhoea, digestive tonic and stimulant that helps in the digestion of fatty meats; helps with gas, liver complaints, excessive lactation, excessive perspiration, anxiety, and depression. Sage is good for insect bites, skin infections, and vaginal discharge and reducing muscle spasms.

Its estrogenic activity makes it a useful remedy for irregular menstruation, and it reduces hot flashes and sweating, female sterility, and menopausal problems.

Caution:

Sage contains thujone which can be toxic when used in excess or over long periods of time. The herb should be avoided during pregnancy because it is a uterine stimulant.

 

 

"Maria Treben's Authentic Sage Remedies"

Infusion:               A heaped teaspoon of herbs to 1 cup boiling water, infused for a short time.

Sage Vinegar:       A bottle is filled loosely to the neck with the flowers of Sage, natural vinegar is poured over

them, so that the flowers are covered and kept in a warm or sunny place for 14 days.

Sitz Bath:             Two heaped double handfuls of leaves are steeped in cold water overnight. Next day it is

brought to a boil and the liquid is added to the bath water.