Sage (Salvia fruticosa miller)
Description: GRAS– Salvia officinalis from the Ladiatae family is also known as ‘garden’, ‘true’ and ‘Dalmatian’ sage. Common sage is an evergreen perennial herb that can grow up to about 60cm (2 feet) high with a woody base, soft gray-green oval leaves and a mass of blue or violet flowers.
Common Uses: The therapeutic properties of Sage are as an anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue, insecticide, laxative and as a tonic. The wild sage is milder than the cultivated sage making it beneficial for children. It benefits by strengthening the vital center, skin conditions, eczema, acne, hair loss, and dandruff. May assist metabolism, menopause, general stimulant, activating nervous system and adrenal cortex, diuretic, antiseptic, anti-spasmodic, anti-cancer, lymphatic, digestion, liver, urinary, pulmonary, chronic bronchitis, asthma, night sweats, glandular disorders (improving estrogen and progesterone-testosterone balance), menstrual irregularity, gingivitis, disinfectant, bacterial infections, sprains, catarrh, rheumatism, arthritis, astringent.
Consistency: Thin
Blends well with: Bergamot, Lavender, Lemon and Rosemary.
Aromatic Scent: Sage has a spicy, sharp, and very herbaceous scent. It is referred to as having a penetrating and powerful aroma. The Dalmatian sage is considered the superior Sage variety.
History: The Chinese believed Sage cured sterility and the Romans believed it cured just about everything. The Latin word ‘salvare’ means ‘heal’ or ‘save’. During the middle Ages, Sage was a popular ingredient of many nerve tonics and the actual herb was used to clean gums.
Cautions: Sage is a powerful oil in the hands of an experienced aromatherapists and should be used with care. It is an oral toxin and should not be used during pregnancy, or by persons suffering from epilepsy or high blood pressure.