Sage

Sage (Salvia)

Sage (Salvia) is a plant genus from the mint family (Lamiaceae). The genus includes about 900 species that occur in the temperate and subtropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere as well as in East Africa. Sage is an aromatic herb with grayish-green, wrinkled leaves and blue, violet or white flowers. The leaves have a savory, slightly bitter taste and are used as a spice in cooking, for example, for meat dishes, soups and sauces.

Health Effects

Sage has been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments. In homeopathy, sage is used for sweating, sore throats and voice disorders. Hildegard von Bingen recommended sage for digestive disorders and to strengthen the immune system. Recent studies suggest that sage may have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

Health Risks

When drinking sage tea or taking sage extracts, caution should be exercised, as sage can be toxic in higher doses. Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as children, should only use sage in consultation with a doctor. Overdosing can cause symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, cramps and unconsciousness. It is recommended to use sage only in moderation and to consult a doctor if symptoms persist.