Sage characteristics

The aromatic herb Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial, evergreen shrub and belongs to the same family as mint and spearmint. It originates from the Mediterranean and Africa. Its height ranges from 30 to 60 centimeters and, with proper care, it can live for 20 years.
Sage grows as a shrub, with square, woody stems and soft, elongated leaves that grow in pairs along its stems. Its leaves are grey-green in color and its flowers, which appear at the beginning of summer, are purple-blue with a rich earthy aroma. Sage tolerates both cold and warm climates but needs plenty of
sunlight to develop adequately.
Some of the many beneficial properties of sage: Bronchodilator, helps regulate menstruation, decongestant for the circulatory system and tonic for the nervous system. In addition, it helps recovery from pharyngitis and other viral infections.
It is used as a decoction, a seasoning and in the manufacture of medicines for its beneficial properties. Sage tea soothes a sore throat and as a seasoning it is used to flavor cooked dishes.

History of sage

In ancient Greece, sage was used as an antidote for insect and snake bites, as well as to enhance memory. Dioscorides, Galen and Hippocrates encouraged its use for its therapeutic properties, and in the minds of the Greeks the herb was associated with longevity. The ancient Greeks dedicated sage to the goddess of the hunt, Artemis.
For ancient Rome, sage was a sacred plant and played an important role in ceremonies as it symbolized immortality.
During the Middle Ages, sage spread throughout the rest of Europe and reached China, where it became known as “Greek brew”. Over time, it became very popular and was considered even better than tea.
During the plague epidemic, people washed with sage before coming into contact with the sick to protect themselves thanks to the plant’s antiseptic abilities.

Ingredients

Essential oil of sage from the leaves and flowers of the herbs Salvia officinalis / Salvia triloba (the 2 sage varieties that contain essential oils), produced by steam distillation.

Chemical composition of sage essential oil

oxygenated monoterpenoids, α-thujone (17.2-27.4%), β-thujone (8.4-8.8%), 1,8-cineole (11.9-26.9%), camphor (12.8-21.4%), farnesol, luteolin, apigenin, carvacrol, thymol, monoterpenes, menthol and other constituents.

Instructions for use

- For combating insomnia: in an oil burner add sage essential oil and lavender essential oil and let the relaxing aroma fill your home.
- As an insect repellent: add a few drops of sage essential oil to a spray bottle with water and spray your space to keep insects away.
- Used in the preparation of healing ointment.
- Apply diluted in St. John’s wort oil together with rosemary essential oil on the joints to combat arthritis pain and in relaxing foot massage.*
* Contact our pharmacist for the preparation of the blend.
- You can include it in your hair care routine to strengthen the hair shaft.
- Combines well with lavender, frankincense, lemon, geranium and bergamot essential oils.

Chinese medicine

In TCM, sage of the known species Salvia officinalis is called Shenreg and
is used to strengthen the meridians of the heart and liver. Its action is important for increasing the vital force Qi, as a mucolytic, emmenagogue, dispelling fire and calming the spirit Shen.

Useful tips

- The use of essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by young children.
- Avoid direct contact with skin, eyes and mouth.
- Always use essential oils dissolved in a base oil or other catalyst.