Aromatherapists, herbalists and practitioners of other forms of alternative healing rely on herbs and essential oils to treat a wide array of mental and physical conditions. Clary sage, a type of sage and a plant whose flowers and leaves are used to produce essential oil, is a commonly-used folk remedy for mental health disorders like anxiety.
About Clary Sage
Clary sage, also known as Salvia sclarea, is a member of the mint family, native to southern Europe but grown around the world by amateur and professional gardeners. Steam distillation of the flowering tops and leaves of the plant results in a clear to pale-colored essential oil used in aromatherapy preparations, perfumes, bath oils and other cosmetic formulations. According to author Maria Lin-Balchin in her book, "Aromatherapy Science: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals," there is no real scientific evidence to support the purported properties of clary sage; however, herbalists and aromatherapists believe it has antidepressant, anti-anxiety and stress-relieving properties.
Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety is a normal reaction to stressful, fear-invoking and tense situations. However, if your levels of anxiety persist after the situation has subsided, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder. While there are several subtypes of anxiety disorders, they share certain similar symptoms. Some of these symptoms include irrational fear, intense anxiety for no apparent reason, panic, irritability, insomnia or difficulty sleeping, appetite changes, a disruption in your ability to function in everyday life, and a decreased sense of well-being. While anxiety disorders are generally treated with medication, psychotherapy or a combination or both, some people prefer to try natural or herbal remedies in order to avoid taking psychotropic medication. Although clinical evidence is scarce to support this claim, aromatherapy using calming essential oils like clary sage may have a beneficial effect on symptoms of anxiety.
Clinical Evidence
Limited clinical evidence exists to support the benefits of clary sage for anxiety and anxiety disorders. Most clinical trials have combined clary sage with other essential oils to show their uses for anxiety. One study, published in the April 2004 of Journal of the Korean Academy of Nursing, "Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi," showed that inhaling a combination of lavender, peppermint, rosemary and clary sage essential oils had an anxiety-reducing effect on study participants exposed to a stress test. Another study, published in the March/April 2008 issue of the journal, "Holistic Nursing Practice," showed that topical application of lavender and clary sage oils had a stress-relieving effect on study participants. However, more studies are needed to fully evaluate the benefits of clary sage for anxiety and anxiety disorders.
Considerations
Aromatherapy preparations using clary sage essential oil may help with anxiety and stress relief. However, clary sage is not a cure for anxiety. If you think you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder, consult your doctor or a qualified mental health provider. Do not use herbal remedies in place of your doctor's advice. There is little research regarding the possible side effects of clary sage. However, according to author Lis-Balchin, clary sage has sedative effects and may cause difficulties with concentration, particularly in high doses. Pregnant or nursing women and people with allergies should not use essential oils. Do not combine herbal remedies with prescription or over-the-counter medications unless under the supervision of your doctor.
References
- "Aromatherapy Science: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals"; Maria Lis-Balchin; 2006
- "Taehan Kanho Hakhoe Chi"; The Effect of Aroma Inhalation Method on Stress Response...; M.K. Park and E. S. Lee; April 2004
- "Holistic Nursing Practice": The Effect of Essential Oils on Work-Related Stress in Intensive Care Unit Nurses; E. Pemberton and P. Turpin; March/April 2008
