Herb Garden – Sage
Sage is another wonderful herb that has been in use for centuries as a culinary and medicinal herb. It is a classic seasoning for many savory dishes and is highly aromatic. The word Sage is derived from Latin word Savere which means “to heal” or “to save”. Sage may have got this name because of its medicinal properties.
Sage is an evergreen perennial shrub of mint family. It is native to Northern Mediterranean coast and used to be cultivated widely in Central Spain and France. Now it is cultivated throughout the world. It is a good container plant. Sage prefers warm, sunny location although it does not enjoy extreme heat. To grow indoors you need to provide strong direct light to it. The soil should be well drained. Sage plant grows up to 2 feet in height. Pruning the plants after flowering will keep the plants attractive and prevent them from getting too woody.
There are nearly 800 to 900 species in Sage; among them “Salvia Officinalis” is the only species which is found in all kitchens and herb gardens.
Uses:
Sage was sacred to the ancient Greeks and Romans; they believed it imparts wisdom and mental acuity. It was always related to good health and long life. Some uses of this herb are like this:
- Sage is a good memory enhancer, it is said that it clears the mind and improves memory.
- Sage leaves (fresh or dry) will help to aid digestion.
- Sage tea will help to treat sore throat, cold and cough.
- Sage extracts are used in shampoos, deodorants and toothpaste.
- Fresh Sage leaves are used to whiten the teeth.
- Sage is a well-regarded herb for women and can be especially helpful for relieving the hot flashes of menopause and slowing heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Gargling water boiled with Sage leaves will help to treat mouth infections and bad breath.
- Dried sage leaves will also act as insect repellants and moth repellants.
- Egyptians used to believe that Sage will improve the fertility.
- Sage herb oil is used externally for massages in aromatherapy.
Precaution:
Using Sage in larger amounts is not advisable. This herb should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause early contractions.
Because of its wonderful healing properties Sage earned a great respect in herb garden. You would be a wise Sage if you add the herb Sage to your spices.
– Anu
August 26th, 2013 at 1:03 AM
Dear Anu,
Thanks for an informative article about Sage. Amazing to know various uses of Sage. I also came across another use of Sage. Burning of Sage leaves apparently has cleansing effect similar to Sandalwood incense sticks.
Thanks
Sanjai
September 5th, 2013 at 11:23 PM
Dear Anu,
Thanks for article on the herb Sage. Very informative to know about the benefits of the herb. I am guessing it is more commonly used as a dried leaves or powder in the kitchen as I couldn’t remember the herb being used like a cilantro, Mint or Parsley which are mostly used as fresh leaves.
Now am curious to check the herb in real. I will comment soon after checking it.
Thanks
Sriram