Uses for Sage Herbs

Sage, or Salvia officinalis, is a perennial culinary herb with gray-green aromatic leaves that is native to the northern Mediterranean coastline. Its flavor when fresh is lemony and a bit peppery; it takes on a slightly mustier character when dried.The Latin name, "salvia" means "to heal," indicating that this plant also has a long history as a herbal medicinal. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid large medicinal doses of sage, although culinary use is fine.

Oral Care

Sage has astringent and antiseptic properties that make it useful for treating sore gums, mouth ulcers and sore throats. The tea may be sipped or used as a mouthwash or gargle. It also has the pleasant side effect of freshening the breath.

Coughs and Colds

Sage tea acts as a natural expectorant to relieve chest congestion and mild coughs. Use 2 tsp. of fresh leaves or 1 tsp. of dried sage per cup of hot water. Drink two to three times daily; sweeten with honey if desired. The book "Smart Medicine For Healthier Living" suggests brewing sage with thyme, another herbal expectorant.

Digestive Complaints

Sage tea is also used as a digestive tonic. It helps relieve gas pain, soothe stomach upset and stimulate the appetite. Brew as above and sip as needed, up to three or four times daily.

Antiperspirant

Germany's governmental herbal advisory board Commission E has approved sage as an antiperspirant remedy, taken internally. You can also use it topically as a body wash, as sage also acts as a deodorant.

Menopause

In part because of its antiperspirant properties, sage is used by herbalists to treat the night sweats that accompany the onset of menopause. Sage also seems to have a regulatory effect on female hormonal cycles, so its benefit to menopausal and perimenopausal women may be more general in nature. Drink a cup before bedtime for night sweats in particular, three cups a day total otherwise.