A universally renowned herb with powerful healing properties ascribed to it by numerous ancient civilisations, its botanical name of ‘Salvia’ is derived from the Latin salvare meaning ‘to save’. The Greeks and Romans used it as a general tonic and to enliven the brain.

The Arabians had a saying “Why should a man die who grows sage in his garden” and an old English couplet states “..he who drinks sage in May, shall live for aye.” Modern research proves folklore correct as sage, both common and red, contains powerful anti-oxidants that combat the ageing of cells - pharmaceuticals based on sage are now becoming available for Alzheimer’s disease.

Rich in oestrogen, it also dries up body fluids making it ideal for relieving night sweats in the menopause and for drying up milk in lactating mothers on weaning. Sage can be used effectively as a gargle for sore throats and gum disease. It helps digestion, making sage more than a mere flavouring in traditional stuffing. It stimulates circulation thereby warming the body and is also a good lung tonic. A sage person uses sage.

This information is purely for the interest of the reader and should not be taken as medical advice. If you wish to utilise herbal remedies, please consult a qualified herbalist before doing so.