Sage offers a range of potential health benefits, primarily attributed to its rich content of antioxidants and other bioactive compounds. It can be used fresh, dried, as a tea, or in extract/supplement form.
Health Benefits:
Antioxidant Protection: Sage is rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols, carnosic acid, and carnosol, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Sage contains compounds that may reduce inflammation, including in the gums.
Oral Health: Sage's antimicrobial properties may help improve oral health by combating bacteria that cause cavities and plaque.
Cognitive Function: Sage may improve memory, alertness, and cognitive skills, potentially offering protection against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Regulation: Sage may help lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes or hyperlipidemia.
Menopause Symptom Relief: Sage may reduce the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes and improve sexual function in postmenopausal women.
Other Benefits: Sage has also been explored for its potential to relieve sore throats, promote skin healing, and reduce PMS symptoms, but further research is necessary.
Digestive Issues: Sage tea for upset stomachs.
Anxiety and Depression: Some use sage tea for anxiety and mild depression.
Distinction Between Sage and White Sage:
"Sage" often refers to common sage (Salvia officinalis), primarily used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
"White sage" (Salvia apiana) has a more resinous scent and is more commonly used for smudging and other spiritual practices.
Metaphysical Properties:
Wisdom and Longevity: Symbolizing wisdom, experience, and a long life.
Connecting Realms: Believed to bridge the physical and spiritual worlds.
Invoking Spirits: Burned as incense to invite beneficial spirits.
Carrying Prayers: Used as a vehicle for carrying prayers to higher powers.
Historical Uses:
Ancient Egypt: Used as a medicinal tea to treat infertility, serious diseases, and epidemics.
Ancient Rome: Considered a sacred herb and used in religious ceremonies.
Middle Ages: Employed to prolong life and ward off evil spirits.
Britain: Recognized as an essential culinary herb, alongside parsley, rosemary, and thyme.
For culinary experimentation and exploration, here are some recipe suggestions.
https://www.food.com/recipe/sage-tea-132042
https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/pumpkin-soup-sage-and-ham
https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/chickpea-fries-sage-and-parmesan
May this offering bring you peace, health, and connection as you explore its uses in meditation, ritual, culinary arts, and ancestral practices. And so it is.
You will receive one (1) ounce, carefully packaged and ready for use. Please allow 2-3 business days for processing. Thank you for supporting our work!
Have A Magical Day!
Christina
Explore additional resources: Join our Herbal Community on Facebook. We encourage you to share your interests and engage in conversation with other members: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/kFvTFZdKLMFXJ3D5/
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Herbs can have potent effects, causing side effects, allergic reactions, or medication interactions. Consult a healthcare professional before using any herbs, especially if pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or take medications. Self-treatment can be dangerous. My herbal knowledge comes from personal experience, self-study, and holistic coursework. I am not a licensed medical professional.