INTRODUCTION

Sage is a very aromatic herb with a square stem and oblong, grey-green leaves that are opposite along the stem. The blue to purple flowers grow in terminal spikes. Gather the leaves in early flowering to soothe a sore throat. Use for a mouthwash on bleeding gums. It reduces secretions such as sweating and breast milk. Do not use during pregnancy.

COMMON SENSE WARNING:
Any information on this site is NOT intended to prescribe or diagnose in any way. The intent is to offer general information and historical use of herbs. Those who are sick should consult their doctor.

DESCRIPTION

Salvia officinalis

Names: garden sage, meadow sage, Spanish sage, Greek sage, Dalmatian sage; Salbel (German); sauge (French); salvia (Italian).

Family: Labiatae / Mint

Description: small, rounded shrub with a height of 2 feet and a width of 2 feet. The flowers are violet-blue, pink or white up to 1 3/8 inches long, small, tube-like, clustered together in whorls along the stem tops. The leaves are woolly white, textured, elongated ovals 1-2 1/2 inches. The drier the weather, the grayer the leaf color. Blooms May to June.

Cultivation: A perennial to zone 4-5. Germination is 2-3 weeks. Space 1 1/2 to 2 feet apart. Soil temperature 60-70 degrees F. Soil should be well drained, sandy, fairly rich with some nitrogen and a pH of 6-6.5. Sow seeds 6-8 weeks before the first frost. Needs mulch when temperatures drop below 0 degrees F. Cut 6-8 inches of top growth from the plant 2 or 3 times a year (after the first growing season), then dry the bunches in thin layers. Sage leaves are heavy so drying may take from 7-10 days. Seeds difficult to germinate, root cuttings in sand or layer them. Use a light application of fish emulsion in early spring. Set traps to deter pill bugs; use bacillus thoringiensis to kill worms; spray with insecticidal soap to kill mealy bugs.

History: The generic name for sage, Salvia, comes from the Latin word meaning "to heal" or "savior" The Greeks called it elifagus which became the Greek spahkos and later, sawge in Old English. .The ancient Greeks and Romans first used sage as a meat preservative. They also believe it could enhance memory. Pliny prescribed it for snakebite, epilepsy, intestinal worms, chest ailments, and menstruation promotion. Dioscorides considered it a diuretic and menstruation promoter and recommended sage leaves as bandages for wounds. Around the 10th century, Arab physicians believe sage extended life to the point of immortality. After the Crusades, this belief showed up in Europe where the saying : "Why should a man die who grows sage in his garden?" evolved. Charlemagne ordered sage grown in the medicinal herb gardens on his imperial farms and the French called the herb toute bonne, meaning all's well. Every country's herbals recommended sage: an Icelandic book from the year 1000, Hildegard of Bingen, Chinese physicians, Ayurvedic physicians and John Gerard and Nicholas Culpeper. Folk healers in America used sage to treat insomnia, epilepsy, measles, seasickness and intestinal worms. The Eclectics used it primarily to treat fever and also prescribed sage poultices for arthritis and the tea as a sexual depressant. As late as the 1920s, US medical texts recommended sage tea as a gargle for sore throat and sage leaf poultices for sprains and swellings.
English herbalists believed that in the garden, this plant would prosper or wane as the owner's business prospered or failed. It was also said that the plant grows vigorously in any garden where the wife rules the house. It was common, then, for the husband to prune the garden ruthlessly to destroy the evidence of his subservience. In France, it was displayed in cemeteries to mitigate grief.

Properties: aromatic, stimulant, carminative, antispasmodic, antiseptic, immune stimulant.

Chemistry: Of oil: pinene, camphene, myrcene, limonene, linalool, bornyl acetate, borneol, salviol, camphor, cineole, thujone, phellandrene.

Nutritional Profile: one teaspoon (.7 g) ground sage has 2 calories. It provides 0.1 g protein, 0.1 g fat, 0.4 g carbohydrates, 12 mg calcium, 0.2 mg vitamin C and 41 IU vitamin A.

Medicinal Uses: Sage oil has a unique property from all other healing herbs--it reduces perspiration. Several studies show sage cuts perspiration by as much as 50% with the maximum effect occurring 2 hours after ingestion. This effect explains how it developed a reputation for treating fever with profuse sweating. Salysat is a sage-based antiperspirant marketed in Germany. Sage is a drying agent for the body. Use it as a sore throat gargle and as a poultice for sores and stings. Use two teaspoons of the herb per cup of water, steep for twenty minutes and take a quarter cup four times a day. Can also be used as a gargle. It tastes warm, aromatic and somewhat pungent. Tincture: 15-40 drops, up to four times a day.
Like rosemary, sage contains powerful antioxidants, which slow spoilage supporting its traditional use as a preservative. This is due to the presence of labiatic acid and carnosic acid. British researchers have confirmed that sage inhibits the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, thus preserving the compound that seems to help prevent and treat Alzheimer's.
Sage makes a good digestive remedy. The volatile oils have a relaxant effect on the smooth muscle of the digestive tract, while in conjunction with the bitters, they stimulate the appetite and improve digestion. Sage encourages the flow of digestive enzymes and bile, settles the stomach, relieves colic, wind, indigestion, nausea, diarrhea and colitis, liver complaints, and worms. Its antiseptic properties are helpful in infections such as gastroenteritis. Sage is a tonic to the nervous system and has been used to enhance strength and vitality.
It has a tonic effect upon the female reproductive tract and is recommended for delayed or scanty menstruation, or lack of periods, menstrual cramps and infertility. It has an estrogenic effect, excellent for menopausal problems, especially hot flashes and night sweats. It stimulates the uterus, so is useful during childbirth and to expel the placenta. It stops the flow of breast milk and it is excellent for weaning. One German study shows sage reduces blood sugar levels in diabetics who drink the infusion on an empty stomach. It also contains astringent tannins which account for its traditional use in treating canker sores, bleeding gums and sore throats. Commission E endorses using 2-3 teaspoons of dried sage leaves per cup of boiling water to make an anti-gingivitis tea.
The Chinese value it in treating yin conditions such as weakness of the stomach, nerves and digestive system. (S. miltiorrhiza--dan shen)

Homeopathic Uses: Homeopaths use sage for night sweats, coughs, and to dry breast milk.

Flower Essence: Sage flower essence enables the Self to learn and reflect about life experience, particularly enhancing the capacity to experience deep inner peace and wisdom. This remedy addresses a natural distillation process which occurs as the healthy person ages. Drawing wisdom from life experience; reviewing and surveying one's life process from a higher perspective.

Aromatherapy Uses:
Extraction method: steam distillation of the dried plant.
Characteristics: strong, herbal, fresh and spicy; colorless. Top note.
Energy: heating, drying; Taste: pungent, bitter,astringent.
Blends with: bay, bergamot, geranium, ginger, lavender, melissa, myrtle, niaouli, orange, rosemary; cajeput; clary sage; eucalyptus; peppermint, pine, rose, tea tree, citrus, rosewood, citronella, pine.
Uses:
Digestive system: helpful for weak or debilitated digestion, also good for diarrhea.
Respiratory: strengthens the lungs and if useful for colds, flu, coughs and sore throats.
Reproductive: Promotes menstruation and is helpful for scanty periods or menstrual cramps. Eases hot flashes and sweating during menopause.
Muscular system: relaxes the muscles, especially when they have been overworked as in weight-training or other strenuous sports.
Skin: Good for cuts and wounds; seems to arrest bleeding from cuts and wounds and helps the formation of scar tissue.
Emotion: Quickens the senses, strengthens the memory and tones the conscious mind. Indicated for tiredness, depression and grief.
Blends:
Digestive: 6 drops sage; 4 drops peppermint; 2 drops orange
Respiratory: 5 drops sage; 4 drops eucalyptus; 2 drops thyme
Reproductive: 6 drops sage; 3 drops geranium; 3 drops cypress
Emotion: 4 drops sage; 2 drops bergamot; 2 drops lime

Cosmetic Use: Sage is recommended for oily skin as a deep cleansing mask or a facial steam. It's a tooth cleaner or works well with apricot and banana as a lip balm. It's recommended for dry/sensitive hair; anti-dandruff; added shine and luster; color enhancer for dark and grey hair. It's a refreshing and deodorizing footbath.

Ritual Uses: Sage absorbs negativity and misfortune. It drives away disturbances and tensions, and lifts the spirits above the mundane cares of life. Burn it to consecrate a ritual space. Carry it as an herb of protection. Use it in the ritual bath and the chalice. Herb of Jupiter; Element: Earth. It brings wisdom, immortality and wealth. Tradition holds that those who eat sage become immortal in wisdom and in years. It is used in wish manifestation and to attract money. The Language of Flowers: domestic virtues; esteem; long life and good health

Culinary Uses:
Fresh sage has a milder flavor than dry so it can be used more extensively. In Italy, fresh sage leaves are fried whole and eaten with gnocchi, potatoes and veal dishes. Focaccia is frequently studded with fresh sage leaves. In England, fresh sage and onion stuffing is traditional with goose and chopped fresh sage is mixed with cottage cheese to spread on dark bread. Sage honey is marvelous over homemade bread and muffins. Stir chopped fresh sage into biscuit dough and add it to dumplings and scones. Lay cut branches of sage on top of hot coals to impart a sage flavor to the cooking food. Spread fresh leaves over a pork roast before cooking. Use it to cut the richness of fatty foods such as goose, duck and oily fish. Fresh sage has a prominent lemon zest flavor that is lost when the herb is dried. Fresh sage can be frozen: place small sprigs in plastic bags and freeze. It will keep for up to two months.
Tastes good with/in: poultry stuffing mixtures with onion, rich and fatty meats such as goose and pork, sausages and other charcuterie, veal, risotto, anchovies, tomato-based sauces, salads, pickles and cheese dishes. An affinity with oregano, thyme, parsley and bay leaf.

Toxicity: Since the oil contains up to 50% ketone, a toxic substance that causes cramps, it should not be taken orally.

RECIPES

Aftershave
Buy two bottles of plain witch hazel. Pour 1/2 cup liquid out of one of the bottles, and 1/4 cup crumbled sage leaves. Cap the bottle and shake it thoroughly. Let it stand for a week, pour out all the witch hazel in the second bottle, and strain the scented liquid from the first bottle into the second through a coffee filter or a clean linen handkerchief. Discard the wet sage leaves. If you prefer a stronger scent, repeat the process, adding another 1/4 cup crumbled dried sage leaves to the liquid. At the end of the second week, strain the liquid back into the empty witch hazel bottle, discard the sage leaves and the empty bottle and use the liquid as an astringent aftershave.

Hair Rinse
Sage tea can be used as an after-shampoo rinse to make brunette hair shiny and smooth. To make the rinse, pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tablespoon rubbed or ground sage. Let the mix steep for 15 minutes. Then strain the liquid through a coffee filter or a clean linen handkerchief; use after shampooing.

Floral Calm Tea
4 ounces skullcap herb
2 ounces rosemary flower, leaf
2 ounces linden flower
1 ounces sage leaf
1 ounces passion flower herb
Combine 1/2 ounce of the mixture with 3 cups of boiling water in a teapot or container with a well-fitting lid. Let stand for five to fifteen minutes before straining. Drink 2 cups hot or cold as needed. (The Herbal Menopause Book)

Rosemary / Wheat Germ Body Toner
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoon chopped sage leaves
2 tablespoon chopped rosemary leaves
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/2 cucumber (do not peel)
1/4 russet potato
1 tablespoon alfalfa sprouts
1 teaspoon lemon extract
Bring water, sage, and rosemary to a light boil; reduce heat and simmer infusion for 1/2 hour. Let cool and, in a blender, mix infusion with remaining ingredients together on medium speed for 1 minute, or until pureed. Filter solution through a paper towel or coffee filter, discarding solids. Put liquid into a small cosmetic bottle and apply to face, gently wiping with a cotton ball. Let toner absorb into skin and follow with a moisturizer. Use daily. Cover and refrigerate; discard after 3-4 days. (Blended Beauty)

Sage Stain-removing Powder
2 tablespoon fresh sage leaves
2 tablespoon sea salt
Put the ingredients in a bowl and using a pestle or some other heavy smooth tool, crush them into a fine powder. Place the mixture in a warm oven. When it is well baked and fairly hard, remove and pulverize a second time. Store in a shallow airtight container. This cleanser rids the teeth of harmful plague and unsightly stains.

Fresh Shiitake and Sage Pasta Sauce
3 tablespoon melted ghee or vegetable oil
1/2 cup thinly sliced shallots
1/4 lb julienned shiitake mushrooms
salt and freshly ground pepper
salt and freshly ground pepper
1/4 cup soup stock
1 1/2 cups cream
1 tablespoon sage Pesto
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
In a large skillet, sauté the shallots in ghee or oil very slowly for about 10 minutes. Do not let them brown. Add the shiitakes, salt and pepper and continue sautéing, stirring frequently. Add the soup stock, a little at a time, as you sauté. Pour in cream and simmer very slowly until sauce is reduced by half (about 15-20 minutes), stirring frequently. Add sage pesto and lemon juice to taste. Serve hot.

Sage Pesto
1/2 cup fresh sage leaves
1/1/2 cups fresh parsley leaves
2 large garlic cloves
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup pine nuts or walnuts
1/2 cup olive oil
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Combine the sage, parsley, garlic, cheese and nuts in a food processor or blender. Process to mix. With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper and process to the desired consistency. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. (Herbs for Health and Healing)

REFERENCES

Aromatherapy Blends and Remedies, Franzesca Watson, Thorsons, 1995; ISBN: 0-7225-3222-9
The Best of Thymes, Marge Clark, Thyme Cookbooks, 1997; ISBN: 0-9640514-1-9
Blended Beauty, Philip B, Ten Speed Press, 1995, ISBN: 0-89815-742-0
The Charlotte Herb Guild Cooks, Cookbooks by Morris Press
The Complete Aromatherapy Handbook, Susanne Fischer-Rizzi, Sterling, 1990; ISBN: 08069-8222-5
The Complete Book of Herbs, Spices and Condiments, Carol Ann Rinzler, Facts of File, 1990, ISBN 0-8160-2008-6
The Complete Woman's Herbal, Anne McIntyre, Henry Holt, 1994; ISBN: 0-8050-3537-0
Cooking with Flowers, Jenny Leggatt, Fawcett, 1987; ISBN: 0-449-90252-8
The Directory of Essential Oils, Wanda Sellar, C.W. Daniel, 1992; ISBN: 0-85207-239-2
A Druid's Herbal, Ellen Evert Hopman, Destiny Books, 1995, ISBN: 0-89281-501-9
Edible Flowers from Garden to Palate, Cathy Wilkinson Barash, Fulcrum, 1993; ISBN: 1-55591-164-1
Flower Essence Repertory, Patricia Kaminski & Richard Katz, 1996; ISBN: 0-9631306-1-7
Flowers in the Kitchen, Susan Belsinger, Interweave, 1991; ISBN: 0-934026-63-7
The Green Pharmacy, James A. Duke, Rodale, 1997; ISBN: 0-87596-316-1
The Healing Herbs, Michael Castleman, Rodale, 1991, ISBN: 0-87857-934-6
The Herbal Connection Collection, Maureen Rogers & Patricia Sulick, The Herb Growing & Marketing Network, 1994
An Herbal Feast, Risa Mornis, Keats, 1998, ISBN: 0-87983-801-9
The Herbal Menopause Book, Amanda McQuade Crawford, Crossing Press, 1996; ISBN: 0-89594-799-4
Herbs for Health and Healing, Kathi Keville, Rodale, 1997; 0-87596-293-9
Herbs in the Kitchen, Carolyn Dille & Susan Belsinger, Interweave, 1992; ISBN: 0-934026-73-4
The Illustrated Herb Encyclopedia, Kathi Keville, Mallard, 1991; ISBN: 0-7924-5307-7
Kitchen Herbs, Sal Gilbertie, Bantam, 1988; ISBN: 0-553-05265-9
The Natural Beauty Book, Anita Guyton, Thorsons, 1991; ISBN: 0-7225-2498-6
Nutritional Herbology, Mark Pedersen, Wendell W. Whitman Co, 1995; ISBN: 1-885653-03-4
Sage Cottage Herb Garden Cookbook, Dorry Baird Norris, Globe Pequot, 1991; ISBN: 0-87106-239-9
Southern Herb Growing, Madalene Hill & Gwen Barclay; Shearer Publishing; 1987; ISBN: 0-940672-41-3
The Tribeca Cookbook, Mary Cleaver, Joy Simmen Hamburger and Mimi Shanley Taft, 10 Speed Press, 1994; ISBN: 0-89815-912-1