Sage

Description

Common sage is a one-meter tall plant with purple flowers, oval, woolly leaves with a silver tint, and a strong calming scent. Even Saxana knew of its breathtaking effects when she was looking for "grandmother's ear," and our ancestors had gardens full of healing sage. The very name is derived from the Latin word "salvare," which means to save or heal. Its leaves are best harvested just before blooming on a sunny midday when they contain the highest amount of essential oils. The leaves contain essential oils with compounds such as thujone, salvial, and cineole, as well as tannins, oxyterpenic acids, saponins, bitters, resins, B vitamins, and mineral and hormonally active substances.

Blooming period: June, July. Leaf harvesting: just before flowering.

Effects and Uses

Common sage has antibiotic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, astringent, disinfectant, and soothing effects. It combats hair loss and dandruff, nourishes the skin, heals wounds, calms minor injuries, irritations, and insect bites. It works wonderfully on problematic and acne-prone skin.

When taken internally, it helps with infections, reduces fever and blood sugar levels, alleviates digestive issues, and aids in expelling mucus from the respiratory organs, improving the functioning of the nervous system. Due to the presence of thujone, which is toxic, use sage with caution (optimal doses and only for a short period).