Sage is an herbal remedy that is often prescribed by herbalists, naturopathic physicians and other health care providers trained in botanical medicine. The University of Michigan Health System states that sage can be used as a mouthwash or gargle or as a tea, depending on the condition being treated. Sage is well-known for the wide range of conditions it may help treat. Talk to your doctor before trying any herbal remedy.
Plant Information
Sage is a silvery-green shrub that is indigenous to the Mediterranean region, although it now thrives in certain parts of North America. The fragrant leaves of the sage plant are used in both cooking and herbal preparations. The University of Michigan Health System notes that sage's volatile oil contains several important active constituents, including rosmarinic acid, alpha- and beta-thujone, tannins, flavonoids, and camphor. Other nutrients contained in sage include boron, calcium, iron and various B-vitamins.
Plant Actions
Sage performs many important actions in your body to help bring about optimal health. In her book "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," expert herbalist and naturopathic doctor Sharol Tilgner states that sage has antibacterial action, helps tighten and tone your tissues, and acts as a carminative, which is an herbal remedy that helps eliminate gas from your intestinal tract. Sage also helps stimulate your central nervous system and reduces sweating and salivation.
Plant Uses
According to Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," there are many uses for sage, including hot flashes, mouth and throat disorders, and hair growth. Sage has been used to treat Alzheimer's disease, gingivitis, tonsillitis, indigestion, heartburn and low stomach acid, common cold, bad breath, infection and for pregnancy support. Sage treats night sweats, symptoms associated with diarrhea, and mucous membrane irritations such as gum ulcerations and sore throat.
Considerations
Though largely safe and effective, sage should not be used medicinally if you are pregnant, due to its ability to promote shedding of your uterine lining. When taken internally, notes Balch, sage may interfere with the absorption of iron and other minerals while reducing lactation in nursing mothers. If you have a seizure disorder or elevated blood pressure, you should avoid using sage. Before using this herb to treat your ailments, talk with your doctor to see if it is appropriate for you.
References
- University of Michigan Health System: Sage
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
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