Sage: 11 properties and benefits of this plant

This type of aromatic plant has been used for centuries for its health properties.

The plant kingdom is vast, and in it we can find countless species of plants that make up the rich array of living beings that populate the earth.

And many of these plants have shown to have interesting properties in many different areas, some of them being consumable for us and even beneficial to our health. Benefits that may include the fact of nourishing us, helping us to fight diseases or improve our health or even improve our appearance.

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

What is this plant?

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

It is a type of plant of great versatility in its use. For example, it is used decoratively in beads or in gardening, it is used as a seasoning for different stews and dishes and it is part of different incenses, perfumes and cosmetics due to its pleasant aroma and its effects on health.

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

Properties of sage

As can be guessed by its constant use throughout history in many fields, sage has many properties. Below we will explain some of the most important ones, especially in reference to its effect on our health.

However, we must bear in mind that some of its properties may not be so positive: its consumption 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 terpene ketones, thuyone or camphor. It may also contribute to convulsions and in high doses may be neurotoxic.

Among the positive properties, the following stand out.

1. It has Antibiotic effects

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

2. Astringent

The fact that in the sage is a significant proportion of tannins makes it contribute to soothe gastrointestinal problems.Among other things, it can help to calm the intestinal motility and reduce the emission of excrements (for example in case of diarrhea) due to its astringent effects.

3. Rich in antioxidants

The use of sage as a condiment has the advantage of having an interesting amount of antioxidants. antioxidants that hinder oxidative damage to tissues, contributing to healing, skin health (also in cosmetic use) and even helping to maintain brain health and function.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 to be hypoglycemic, generating a decrease in blood glucose levels. This makes its use useful for diabetics when it comes to lowering their glycemic level.. However, as long as it is used only as an aid (never as a substitute for any medication).

5. Invigorates and stimulates appetite

Sage has been found to be useful for muscular weakness, lack of energy and asthenia.. It also stimulates appetite and activity. However, people suffering from psychiatric disorders such as bipolar disorder should avoid its use in this regard, as it may promote the onset of symptoms.

6. Relieves gastrointestinal discomfort

It has been seen that tea made with sage has some usefulness in curbing the discomfort and discomfort of minor digestive tract conditions, 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 contributes to combat insomnia, often used with chamomile, and seems to help reduce insomnia.and it seems to help to lower the level of anxiety in spite of being at the same time invigorating.

8. It is anti-inflammatory

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

9. Helps to improve gynecological problems

One of its most traditional uses is linked to gynecological disorders and alterations, especially with regard to hot flashes and alterations typical of the climacteric period.. It also favors the menstrual cycle, contributing to the generation of estrogens. Likewise, the aforementioned anti-inflammatory effects also contribute to reduce the discomfort of the cycle.

10. Strengthens hair and skin

Sage is a component often found in cosmetics such as creams and oils, favoring the health of hair and being useful in some types of dermatitis. being useful in some types of dermatitis and in maintaining disinfectant and in keeping the skin disinfected (as well as promoting healing).

11. Promotes cognitive activity

Sage also seems to increase cognitive functionality and there are even studies that seem to indicate that Alzheimer's patients show a slight improvement in mental activity and functionality, for example in the case of memory.

Bibliographical 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.