The plant kingdom is wide, and in it we can find innumerable species of plants that form the rich range of living beings that populate the earth. And many of these plants have shown to have interesting properties in very diverse areas, some of them being consumable for us and even beneficial for our health. Benefits that can include the fact that they nourish us, help us fight diseases or improve our health or even improve our appearance.

The sage is an example of this, having been known and used since Ancient Greece. There are many properties of sage , and that is why throughout this article we will focus on reviewing some of the most popular ones.

What is this plant?

We call sage a well-known aromatic plant, which belongs to the family of Lamiaceae (like oregano or basil) and which has been widely available and widespread in Mediterranean countries since ancient times.

This is a type of plant that is very versatile in its use. For example, it is used as a decoration in beads or in gardening, it is used as a condiment in different stews and cooked dishes and it is part of different incenses, perfumes and cosmetics due to its pleasant aroma as well as its effects on health.

Therefore, the applications given to this vegetable are very diverse, ranging from the cosmetic industry to food use or even as a medicinal plant . With respect to the latter, it is in fact from where its name comes, which is derived from the terms salus and salvare (health and save respectively), always emphasizing its positive effects on the organism.

Properties of sage

As can be guessed from its constant use throughout history in many areas, there are many properties of sage. Below we will explain some of the most important, especially with regard to its effect on our health .

However, it should be noted that some of its properties may not be as positive: is not indicated for people with kidney problems, allergies, epilepsy or in pregnancy or lactation (it has abortive properties). Its oil should not be ingested, as it can be toxic due to components such as terpenic ketones, thujone or camphor. It can also contribute to convulsions and in high doses can be neurotoxic.

Among the positive properties, the following stand out

1. Has antibiotic effects

One of the healthy properties of sage is that it strengthens the immune system, helping to eliminate bacteria and serving as an antiseptic in case of wounds and infections (which is why it is used as a component in certain mouthwashes or creams).

2. Astringent

The fact that a significant proportion of tannins is found in the sage means that it contributes to calming gastrointestinal problems , and can, among other things, help to calm intestinal motility and reduce the emission of excrement (for example in the case of diarrhoea) given its astringent effects.

3. Rich in antioxidants

The use of sage as a condiment has the advantage of having an interesting amount of antioxidants that hinder the damage by oxidation of tissues , contributing to healing, skin health (also in its cosmetic use) and even helping to maintain the health and functioning of the brain.

4. Lowers blood sugar

Another of the properties of sage is that of being hypoglycemic, generating a decrease in blood glucose levels. This makes its use useful for diabetics when it comes to lowering their glycemic level . However, it should only be used as an aid (never as a substitute for any medication).

5. Invigorates and stimulates appetite

Sage has been found to be helpful in treating muscle weakness, lack of energy and asthenia . It also stimulates appetite and activity. However, people who suffer from psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder should avoid its use in this sense, as it may favour the appearance of symptoms.

6. Relieves gastrointestinal discomfort

It has been seen that tea made with sage shows some usefulness in curbing the discomfort and inconvenience of minor conditions of the digestive tract, reducing pain and reducing gastrointestinal motility.

7. Relaxing effect

Although apparently contrary to the previous effect, another of the properties of sage is that in infusion it allows muscle relaxation. It has been observed that helps to combat insomnia, often used together with camomile , and seems to help reduce the level of anxiety despite being invigorating.

8. It is anti-inflammatory

Sage is a plant with anti-inflammatory properties, reducing for example the discomfort of gastric or digestive tract problems and contributing to the relaxation of tense muscles .

9. Contributes to improving gynecological problems

One of its most traditional uses is linked to gynaecological disorders and alterations , especially with regard to hot flushes and alterations in the climacteric . It also favours the menstrual cycle, contributing to the generation of oestrogens. Likewise, the aforementioned anti-inflammatory effects also contribute to reducing the discomfort typical of the cycle.

10. Strengthens hair and skin

The sage is a component that we often find in cosmetics such as creams and oils, promoting the health of hair and being useful in some types of dermatitis and in keeping the skin disinfected (as well as promoting healing).

11. Encourages cognitive activity

Sage also appears to increase cognitive functioning and studies are even being conducted that seem to indicate that Alzheimer’s patients show a slight improvement in activity and mental functioning, for example in the case of memory.

Bibliographic references:

  • Drew, B. T., González-Gallegos, J. G., Xiang, C. L., Kriebel, R., Drummond, C. P., Walker, J. B. and Sytsma, K. J., (2017). “Salvia united: The greatest good for the greatest number”. Taxon, 66(1), pp. 133 – 145.
  • Sutton, John (2004). The Gardener’s Guide to Growing Salvias. New York: Workman Publishing Company