Menopause is a natural process in a woman's life, but it can come with unwanted physical and emotional symptoms that most women want to avoid. During the years immediately preceding a woman's final menstrual cycle, she is most likely to experience hot flashes, night sweats and other menopausal symptoms. Sage, or Salvia officinalis, may be beneficial in easing some symptoms, but the FDA does not oversee the production of herbal remedies, so there is no guarantee of their safety or efficacy. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms before using sage tea. Conventional medications are also available for this condition.
Sage
Sage tea is widely available in health food stores in bulk or in individual tea bags. The herb is easy to grow in the home garden, and it may be found growing wild in sunny, well-drained soils. Native Americans sipped sage tea for treating coughs, colds and female disorders according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicines." The Romans thought the herb to be sacred.
Potential Benefits for Menopausal Women
Sage tea is potentially beneficially for reducing hot flashes and night sweats, because the herb may reduce excessive perspiration. In combination with alfalfa, it may be even more effective. Additional potential benefits include use as a general tonic for soothing irritability and regulating scanty or irregular periods suffered during perimenopause, which is the time preceding the end of a woman's reproductive years. Clinical studies confirming these health benefits are lacking, however. Sage contains vitamins C and B-complex, calcium, zinc and magnesium.
Dosage
The "Gale Encyclopedia" recommends making sage tea by pouring one pint of boiling water over 3 tsp. of fresh or dried sage leaves. Steep for 15 minutes. Strain and drink up to three cups of sage tea per day and store leftover tea in the refrigerator. Sage is a common spice for flavoring poultry and savory dishes. Sage tea may be more palatable if prepared similar to a hot broth, with a bit of salt and pepper, instead of drinking it as a sweetened tea.
Considerations
Do not drink sage tea if there is a chance you may be pregnant. The "Gale Encyclopedia" notes that there are very few side effects reported with the recommended use of sage, but it may interfere with the absorption of vital minerals in the body. The herb contains thujone, which may trigger convulsions in those with epilepsy, In addition, anyone who is allergic to plants in the mint family, should not drink sage tea. Talk to your doctor before using sage to treat the symptoms of menopause.
References
- Cox College: Sage
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Volume 2"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
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