Salvia officinalis. Using Salvia officinalis at home

Sage is a perennial shrub, herbaceous plant from the Lamiaceae family. Mentions of the beneficial properties of this medicinal plant are found in the treatises of ancient doctors, who attributed miraculous properties to it. Moreover, in ancient times it was believed that sage could not only heal ailments, but also drive out evil spirits and even bring material well-being. In addition, it was believed that thanks to the plant it was possible to conceive a child even with infertility. Naturally, sage is not a philosopher’s stone and has no special relationship to money. However, it is still widely used in both folk and traditional medicine.

Chemical composition of sage

The composition of sage essential oil includes alpha pinene, alpha and beta thuinone, borneol, camphor and cineole. Medicinal sage leaves contain alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, oleanolic and ursolic acids. Sage flowers contain glycerides and linoleic acid.

Sage consists of the following components:

  • Cineole is the main component of essential oil and has antiseptic, expectorant and therapeutic properties.
  • Tuinon is credited with hallucinogenic properties, but in medicinal sage its concentration is too low to cause any harm to health.
  • Borneol is a variety of Camphor and is widely used in the perfume industry. Due to its antibacterial, antidepressant and tonic properties, borneol has also found application in medicine.
  • Ursolic acid is a powerful antioxidant and also has strong anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. In addition, the acid helps with muscle atrophy, lowers blood glucose, lowers cholesterol, stimulates hair growth and protects against dandruff.
  • Linolenic acid is an independent fatty acid belonging to the omega-6 family. It prevents the development of atherosclerosis, tumors, and also prevents cholesterol oxidation. In addition, this acid effectively reduces the formation of free radicals and lipid oxidation.
  • It is also worth noting that the plant contains vitamins A, B, PP and K, various mineral salts, choline, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, potassium, copper and iron.

Medicinal properties


Thanks to its powerful disinfectant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, the plant has proven itself as a cure for sore throat, laryngitis, bronchitis and even tuberculosis. In addition, due to its hemostatic properties, sage is able to stop bleeding gums and helps with stomatitis.

However, the scope of application of medicinal herbs does not end there. Sage decoctions and tinctures are often used in the treatment of burns, ulcers, stomach colic and liver diseases. Also, the beneficial properties of sage include its beneficial effect on the nervous system, helping with headaches and insomnia. In addition, the plant activates brain activity. Due to this feature, sage is often used to improve the condition of Alzheimer's disease.

Contraindications to the use of sage

Preparations based on medicinal sage are contraindicated in case of a weakened thyroid gland, acute inflammation of the kidneys, and hypersensitivity to specific substances contained in the plant. Another contraindication is hypertension. This is due to the fact that the plant and drugs based on it can cause an increase in blood pressure.

In addition, sage is strictly contraindicated in women with polycystic disease, fibroids or endometriosis. This is justified by the fact that sage exhibits a powerful estrogenic effect, which promotes the onset of ovulation. Due to this property, sage should also not be consumed throughout the entire period of pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Uses of sage


Sage has many beneficial properties and is widely used in the following areas:

  • For inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, sore throat, bronchitis and other diseases, use tea, inhalation and infusion from the plant;
  • In gynecology, sage is used for douching for thrush, cervical erosion, cervicitis and various gynecological inflammations. In addition, it can help with female and male infertility;
  • For stomach diseases, sage is used in the form of tincture, tea or infusion;
  • For bleeding gums, stomatitis or the appearance of ulcers, use a decoction of the plant as a rinse;
  • Liver inflammation and genitourinary infections can be treated with sage tincture;
  • Aromatic baths from the plant are used to tone the skin, treat skin diseases, psoriasis and prostatitis.

Naturally, you should not rely solely on the miraculous properties of the plant. Use sage in combination with other medications for maximum effect.

ethnoscience

Due to its beneficial properties, sage has found wide use in folk medicine. Below is a collection of the simplest folk recipes.

Decoction


Sage decoction is often used as a gargle for throat diseases such as sore throat, pharyngitis and tonsillitis. In addition, it can be used for gum inflammation, stomatitis, or after tooth extraction. The decoction is also effective for skin diseases such as psoriasis, acne, neurodermatitis, as well as burns and frostbite.

To prepare a decoction of medicinal herbs, you need: pour a tablespoon of leaves into a glass of water and boil in a water bath for fifteen minutes. Next, strain the resulting broth and dilute it with water.

Infusion


Sage infusion is often used for inflammatory diseases of the upper respiratory tract. In addition, it can be used for gastritis and stomach colic.

To prepare the tincture you should: Pour a glass of boiling water over a spoonful of herbs and let it brew for 30 - 40 minutes. The resulting infusion should be filtered.

Unlike a decoction, an infusion has a milder effect on the body due to the fact that it contains a lower concentration of substances contained in sage.

Tincture

Basically, sage tincture is used as a mouth rinse.

It has a powerful disinfectant that can help with neuritis, sore throat, and bronchitis. However, it can also be taken internally. In small doses, it helps with gastritis, liver inflammation, genitourinary infections and atherosclerosis.

Just like a decoction, the tincture can be used as an ointment to help with burns, frostbite and boils.

2 most common tincture recipes

1 - 3 tablespoons of sage leaves are mixed with 500 milliliters of vodka in a glass container. Next, cover the container with a lid and leave it in a dark place for 4 weeks. After four weeks, strain the tincture and pour into a clean container.

2 - Mix 5 tablespoons of sage flowers with 400 milliliters of alcohol. Next, you should leave the container with the tincture in a dark, cool place for 3 weeks. If desired, you can add honey and lemon juice to this recipe.

Be careful: Before taking sage tincture, you should definitely consult your doctor.

Compresses

Sage compresses are an excellent tonic that can restore skin elasticity.

Compresses can remove bags under the eyes.

To make a sage compress, you need:take one teaspoon of herb and pour it with 100 milliliters of boiling water. Heat this mixture in a water bath for 5 minutes. Strain the resulting broth and divide into 2 parts. We cool one half and heat the other. Next, soak 2 cotton pads in the cooled broth and two more in the heated one. Before going to bed, alternately apply hot and cold cotton pads.

Compresses should be applied every two days.

Inhalations


For chronic runny nose and bronchitis, you can use sage inhalation to relieve the disease.

To prepare inhalation: Pour half a liter of water into the pan and add a tablespoon of herbs. Bring the mixture to a boil and keep on low heat for five minutes. Then we bend over the container and, covered with a blanket, breathe in the sage vapors for ten minutes.

Douching

Douching with sage decoction should be carried out for thrush, cervical erosion, cervicitis and various gynecological inflammations.

To prepare a decoction for douching, you should: take three tablespoons of dried leaves and pour a liter of boiling water over them. Boil the resulting mixture for ten minutes, then let it cool. Douching with the resulting decoction is carried out twice a day for two weeks.

Tea

Sage tea is an excellent stimulant that improves mental performance. In addition, it has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties and is great for colds, sore throat or other throat diseases.

To prepare tea you should: take one tablespoon of dried leaves and pour 500 milliliters of hot water over them.

You can also add regular tea to the infusion. One way or another, the tea must be allowed to brew for 10 minutes. After this, you can add honey, sugar or lemon to it. It is advisable to drink this tea in small portions and half an hour before meals.

The use of sage in cosmetology


Cosmetology has not ignored sage either. Due to the therapeutic and tonic properties of the plant, it has found wide application in the field of cosmetology. Below are the most common recipes using sage.

Hair mask recipe

Below are described in detail 2 basic recipes for a sage hair mask.

Moisturizing mask recipe

For a nourishing and moisturizing hair mask, you required:

  • 2 tablespoons castor oil;
  • 2 tablespoons of burdock oil;
  • 2 drops of lavender essential oil;
  • three drops of sage oil.

Heat the castor and burdock oils for five minutes in a water bath, then add the essential oils of sage and lavender. Mix the mixture and rub it into the hair roots for 40 minutes.

To enhance the effect, you should wrap your head with plastic wrap and a towel. It is advisable to use this hair mask with a break of two weeks between uses.

Mask for fast hair growth

For a mask that accelerates hair growth you required:

  • half a liter of apple cider vinegar;
  • half a liter of vodka;
  • seven tablespoons of sage leaves;
  • seven tablespoons of rosemary;
  • 15 tablespoons of nettle.

Mix the ingredients in a glass or ceramic container, then leave them in the refrigerator for two weeks. Next, strain the infusion and rub it into your head. To achieve maximum effect, the mask should be applied to wet hair.

It is important to note that sage-based hair masks dye hair dark, so it is not suitable for girls with blond hair. As an alternative, they should use chamomile-based masks.

Uses of sage oil


Sage oil is a universal remedy that has found application not only in creating hair masks. It is used in aromatic baths, cosmetics, warming compresses and even for washing the face.

1-2 drops should be added to aromatic baths, while 3 drops per 15 grams of the main substance should be added to cosmetic products.

To prepare a solution used for washing or warming compresses, you should: use 10 drops of oil per half glass of liquid. In addition, the plant oil can be used to scent rooms. When aromatizing, 2-3 drops of oil are usually used per 10 square meters.

Sage vapors have a strong relaxing effect, so it should not be used when performing tasks that require increased concentration.

Sage baths

Sage baths are usually used as a pain reliever for injuries and osteochondrosis. However, such baths have also proven themselves in the prevention of skin diseases, psoriasis, trophic ulcers and even prostatitis. In addition, they help with gout and salt deposits.

To prepare a sage bath you need: take 200 grams of dry sage or 500 grams of fresh, pour two liters of boiling water and simmer over low heat for twenty minutes. Next, pour the broth into the bath and dilute it with hot water so that the bath temperature is 36 C.

Take a bath for no longer than 15 minutes. After the bath, you should dress warmly and go to bed.

Conclusion


Sage really can cope with almost any ailment. However, you should not abuse the miracle plant, because as you know, only the dose makes the medicine poison and the poison a medicine.

Unfortunately, the plant grows exclusively in subtropical and temperate latitudes, so not everyone can plant a bed of healing herbs in their dacha. Fortunately, dried leaves or inflorescences of medicinal herbs can be bought at almost any pharmacy, and at a very affordable price.

Sage should be stored in a dry, dark place, at room temperature. In this case, it is advisable to use an airtight container so that its aroma does not mix with other herbs.

Only medicinal sage leaves are used to treat various diseases. It should not be confused with other types of sage, of which there are more than 900 varieties. This plant is a subshrub, its height sometimes reaches 75 centimeters. Sage flowers are blue-violet in color, leaves are gray-green, entire, opposite, petiolate, and oblong in shape. They contain the most useful substances. Let's take a closer look at why and how sage leaves are used.

Properties of sage

The leaves of this natural medicine have an astringent, tonic, hemostatic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effect. They contain components such as:

  • alkaloids, phytoncides, flavonoids, resins, tannins;
  • vitamins P, PP, B1, C;
  • essential oils containing terpene compounds (thujone, salvain, pinene, borneol, cineole and others).

Uses of sage

Even in ancient times, our ancestors used the leaves of this plant for various purposes. The scope of the panacea is vast. Just don't overuse this herb. Long-term use may cause unwanted reactions. In addition, sage has a number of contraindications; study them before using decoctions and infusions:

  • allergy;
  • epilepsy;
  • decreased functioning of the thyroid gland;
  • hypotension, kidney disease;
  • breast-feeding;
  • pregnancy.

Medical use

Decoctions from salvia leaves have a beneficial effect on the body in pathologies of various etiologies. This is why medicinal sage is used for healing:

  1. Sage effectively cures diseases of the gums, oral mucosa, stomatitis, and sore throat. To do this, rinse your mouth with a decoction of the leaves. For bronchitis, pharyngitis, tracheitis, it is recommended to inhale four to six times a day. Interestingly, after such treatment procedures, improvements in the condition of the facial skin were noticed - the pores of the skin were cleansed.
  2. For gastrointestinal diseases, namely gastritis, colitis, ulcers with low acidity, patients are advised to drink an infusion of salvia leaves 30 minutes before meals.
  3. In dermatology and cosmetology, a decoction of medicinal herbs is used as a lotion. With the help of such lotions, they alleviate the condition of patients with psoriasis, neurodermatitis, eczema, and also treat wounds, burns, and ulcers.
  4. If you rinse your hair with medicinal tea from sage leaves, you can improve the condition of the scalp and strengthen the hair follicles. After regular procedures, you will notice that your hair has become much fuller and has begun to grow faster.
  5. In gynecology, an infusion of medicinal sage leaves is used for infertility as a complex therapy. For vulvitis, douching with a decoction of the leaves of this plant helps greatly. During menopause, tea from the drug is used for increased sweating and nervousness.

Use of sage in cooking

Crushed leaves of spicy sage, as mentioned above, are added as a seasoning to meat dishes. The piquant taste is reminiscent of thyme and rosemary. In France, it is customary to prepare vegetable soups and white meats with the addition of a small amount of sage. In Germany, sausages are made with sage. In the Caucasus, this spice is added to lamb.

Sage tincture recipes

Let's look at recipes for decoctions that can be prepared from sage leaves.

Decoction of sage leaves

For a medicinal drink, take one large spoon of crushed leaves, add a cup of water, keep in a boiling water bath for 20 minutes, then let it stand for 40 minutes, and you can consume.

Sage tea

Add one large spoon of plant leaves to boiling water. Remove from the oven and let it sit for about an hour, then you can drink.

Alcohol tincture

Pour three large spoons into a half-liter bottle of 40% strength vodka. Then put it in a warm place to infuse for one month.

With proper use of sage leaves, you can improve your health and improve your well-being. But know that you cannot use it for more than three calendar months.

There are medicinal herbs in the world that are not particularly attractive, but, nevertheless, they are simply a real storehouse of healing substances, and they can be classified as.

This inconspicuous plant is represented in nature in a variety of different ways; there are about nine hundred of its species, and their medicinal properties vary quite a lot. Today we will talk about ordinary pharmaceutical sage.

It is a plant with grayish-green and somewhat velvety leaves. Its flowers are soft lilac in color, collected in small inflorescences-spikelets. It is worth saying that the healing properties of sage are so universal that in Ancient Egypt it was called a sacred herb.

About the beneficial properties of sage

The plant has beneficial effects on the human body, as a result of which it is actively used both in folk and traditional medicine, for the purpose of treating certain diseases.

The leaves were found to contain beneficial essential oils that have bactericidal and anti-inflammatory effects. Sage contains camphor, P, some flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins.

The plant contains small amounts of phosphoric acid, as well as nicotinic acid, tannins, thujone, paradiphenol and many other healing substances.

Sage has quite extensive medicinal properties. For example, it contains female phytohormones, therefore, its use is especially useful for the body of the fair sex.

It is worth saying that this plant also has rejuvenating properties, as well. Drinking an infusion made from sage leaves helps a woman cope with infertility, as it promotes the process of conception and strengthens the walls of the uterus.

The plant helps reduce irritability and nervousness during menopause, therefore, it is useful to brew this herb during menopause. Sage significantly alleviates the course of gynecological diseases of an inflammatory nature.

Traditional healers widely use an infusion, which is prepared from pre-dried leaves. This drug is used as an excellent expectorant for bronchitis.

Sage infusion is considered a good diuretic, therefore, it is used for some kidney diseases. It is also used for gastritis, colds, sore throat, toothache, and inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, for example.

Sage has hemostatic and astringent properties, it is excellent and also helps to maintain clarity of thinking for a long time. Its antimicrobial effect has also been revealed; accordingly, it perfectly fights some fungal skin diseases, and also alleviates the course of psoriasis.

Sage is recommended for the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system, colitis, diabetes, pulmonary tuberculosis, and cholecystitis. It must be said that the dry leaves of this medicinal plant are included in various stomach and chest preparations.

It is believed that the use of infusions and decoctions made from sage significantly reduces sweating, helps cope with high blood pressure, and also eases the menopause.

The infusion is also used for local treatment, for example, it is used to treat purulent wounds and ulcers, it is used for burns and frostbite, as well as for hemorrhoids and hair loss.

The plant has a tonic effect on the body and also helps to cope with flatulence. Tea made from sage is useful to drink during colds, during colds, and also during chronic fatigue.

You can also use fresh leaves, in particular, use them to clean your teeth. Oil prepared from this herb helps relieve muscle and joint pain and is effective for rheumatism.

Recipe for preparing sage infusion for inflammatory processes of the oral mucosa

You will need a tablespoon of pre-crushed dry leaves, which should be poured with 200 milliliters of boiling water, then it is recommended to leave the potion for two hours, after which you can strain it and rinse your mouth several times a day.

Folk recipe for diseases of the upper respiratory tract

To prepare this recipe, you will need 15 grams of dry chopped sage, which must be poured with one glass of milk, then the mixture should be boiled over very low heat, and then allowed to brew for about ten minutes.

Then the drug is filtered through a fine strainer, the sediment is squeezed out, after which it is recommended to boil it again. It is recommended to take hot before bed.

Folk recipe for inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract

You will need ten grams of crushed sage leaves, which are recommended to be brewed with 400 milliliters of boiling water, then the potion should be infused for at least thirty minutes, after which it should be carefully strained and consumed in a tablespoon after two hours.

Contraindications

Doctors do not advise nursing mothers or women carrying a child to use medicines with sage. The plant is also contraindicated for severe cough and acute nephritis. Also know that an overdose of sage herb in a recipe or taking it for longer than 3 months causes irritation of the mucous membranes and poisoning.

Conclusion

Before using folk recipes using this medicinal herb, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Sage (Garden, medicinal, common) (Salvia offincinalis) is a family of Lamiaceae and Lamiaceae.

Titles in other languages:

  • English common sage
  • fr. sauge,
  • German Echter Salbei.


Appearance

The most common type is common sage (garden, medicinal). It can reach up to 80 cm in height.

  • The stem is straight, its shape is from a weakly expressed tetrahedral to rounded shape, it is distinguished by strong branching and pubescence of the upper part.
  • The leaves are gray-green in color, with whitish hairs. They have an elongated shape from ovoid to lanceolate. The length can be up to 10 cm. The upper leaves are located on petioles, and the upper ones - without them.
  • Flowers appear in early summer and are usually light purple. Flowering continues throughout the summer.
  • Sage is cross-pollinated. The fruits are small dark and brown nuts about three millimeters in size, with four lobes. For seedlings, seeds are collected in August or September.
  • The root is branched, woody and huge.

Sage leaves, depending on the type, can be simple elongated or pinnate

Sage blooms in early summer, color depends on the type of plant

The fruits of sage in the form of smooth, ovoid nuts are collected in late summer - early autumn

Kinds

Sage is a plant of many types, each of which has an individual aroma. Spicy plants are used to add spices to various dishes.

In the family Lamiaceae and Lamiaceae, sage has more than 900 species. Its name comes from the Latin “salvare - to help,” which indicates its use for health purposes by our ancestors. Garden sage is a herb whose origins are located in the Mediterranean region. There are many subspecies. In European countries, sage is a very popular plant.

Sage is a perennial subshrub plant that is winter-resistant, so leaves for spices are collected throughout the year. Various types are used for incense burners and tea.

In addition to the considered common sage, there are:


Sage has many types, and each of them is used for specific purposes.

meadow sage

(Salvia pratensis) has a much more pleasant aroma and is used as a spice for dishes. The taste of young leaves is astringent and camphor-like, while older leaves are bitter. For drying, young shoots are cut before flowering.

Every day, tea must be re-brewed and no more than one or two cups drunk, as the content of thujone (essential oil) in large quantities makes the drink poisonous.

The plant tolerates heat well, losing its bitterness. Can be added to a variety of dishes. Basically, spices are used in fish and veal, various meat dishes.

Fried leaves in butter are great as a side dish for tortellina and flat noodles.

Leaves that have been dried for a long time are also used, but in smaller quantities due to the resinous taste. So that they can be used in the future, the leaves are frozen, and paper is placed between them to prevent a bitter taste.


Meadow sage has light purple flowers; the plant is best used when young

(Salvia officinalis ssp. major) is great for spices and grows up to 1 meter tall. Due to its pleasant and delicate aroma, it is used in cooking, but due to the high content of toxic agents, it is used in small quantities.


Dalmatian sage stands out among other species due to its wide, rounded leaves.

Tricolor

(Salvia officinalis Tricolor) variegated leaves are its distinguishing feature. It has a bitter taste and grows up to 0.4 meters. The seasoning is used for meat and fish.


Salvia tricolor is rather short, easy to recognize by its variegated leaves, tastes bitter

(Salvia officinalis "Purpurancens") reaches half a meter, has violet and purple leaves, the oldest ones have green-gray and dark green leaves. This type is used in the same way as the garden one (sometimes as a garden decoration).


Purple sage with leaf color characteristic of its name, only 50 cm in height

There are other types of sage.

For example, in Greece they prefer Greek sage(Salvia triloba) – has a pleasant fresh aroma, but a bitter taste, so it is used extremely rarely for cooking.

Thujon is not in spanish sage(Salvia lavandulifolia), grows up to 0.6 m. Small leaves of a gray-greenish hue are used in various types of dishes without fear of the formation of harmful substances.

Spicy and very aromatic is considered clary sage(Salvia sclarea) is a plant whose height reaches one meter. Feature – flowering in a purple hue. The leaves are baked and used in various sweets with tea, and also add flavor to vermouth and wine.

Greek sage is rarely used in cooking due to its bitter taste.

Spanish sage is eaten and is distinguished by its small leaves.

Clary sage has fairly tall vegetation and purple flowers.

Two more varieties have fruity aromas - fruit sage(Salvia dorisiana) and pineapple sage(Salvia rutilans). The first species lives in Honduras, the second - in Mexico. They are great for teas, sweet dishes and cocktails.

Fruity sage has large leaves and pink flowers and is good for teas

Pineapple sage has red flowers and is used in sweet dishes.

Where does it grow?

The predominantly medicinal plant grows in southern European countries such as Italy, France, Slovakia, Moldova, Ukraine, Russia (Krasnodar Territory) and Yugoslavia.

They plant it in their gardens for home use and on large plots of land for further industrial processing. It often lives in the driest places, because the plant does not tolerate moisture.


Wild sage lives in arid places, and other species are cultivated in European countries, some of them grow entire fields of this fragrant herb

Method of making spices

Thanks to its amazing taste and aroma, sage is a popular Italian spice. Newly blossomed plants are used. The plant is not torn off one leaf at a time, but is cut at a height of 10 centimeters with stems. The leaves are then dried and crushed (if necessary).

If you fry this type, the taste will change dramatically. They are added as a flavor to sandwiches, sandwiches and other fast foods.

Spices retain their flavor and aroma perfectly in a dry place.




Characteristics

  • Fragrant smell, persistent taste.
  • Contents of essential oils in large quantities.
  • It has various chemical compounds and substances that have a positive effect on human health.
  • Used as spices to enhance flavor, decoration or medicine.


Sage is used to improve the health of the body and as a flavoring additive to food.

Nutritional value and calorie content

For 100 grams of product there is:

Chemical composition

The plant contains:

  • Alkaloids.
  • Oleanolic, formic and ursolic acids.
  • Flavonoids.
  • Tannins.
  • Bitterness.
  • Resins.
  • Vitamins PP, C, P.
  • 2.5% essential oil in leaves, which includes:
    • D-borneol.
    • D-camphor.
    • α- and β-thujone.
    • D-α-pinene.
    • Cineola.


The seeds of the plant contain:

  • Up to 30% fatty oil, where 20% is protein, and the rest is glyceride-amyl-linoleic acid.

Beneficial features

  • Positive effect on the body.
  • They are used for inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, lungs, and genitourinary system; it helps with coughs and high fever.
  • Helps in the treatment of infertility.
  • Allows you to reduce the amount of sweating in people infected with tuberculosis.
  • Improves memory.
  • Carries out preventive actions for sore throat, stomatitis, gingivitis, eczema, vaginitis, vulvitis, hemorrhoids.


Sage has proven itself to be an excellent remedy against various ailments.

You can learn even more about the benefits of sage from the TV show “Live Healthy.” Sage is a “sacred herb” according to Hippocrates, which says a lot.

Contraindications

  • Risk of miscarriage during pregnancy or induction of premature labor.
  • The plant is contraindicated during lactation.
  • Allergic reactions when used externally.
  • For certain kidney diseases: pyelonephritis, renal failure, nephritis (consult your doctor).
  • It is forbidden to use for polycystic disease, endometriosis, uterine fibroids and other diseases that disrupt the menstrual cycle.
  • For neurological diseases.
  • Reduces thyroid function.
  • In case of overdose - anxiety, insomnia, hallucinations, increased heart rate, convulsions and more.

Application

In cooking

  • The plant is used as a spice to enhance the flavors of various dishes.
  • Used in canning and distillery production.
  • As a flavoring in tea, soft drinks, tobacco, cheese, and as a seasoning for game (most popular in North America and Europe).
  • Enhancing the aromatic smell and taste of meat (sage can increase the shelf life of cooked dishes).
  • Used in first courses (soups).
  • Precise dosing (bitter taste if in excess).
  • Add to meat products, eggs and omelettes.
  • Some beers contain sage.
  • Added to hot drinks for health benefits.
  • Used for sweet pastries.
  • Combines with rosemary.
  • Aromatic and tasty honey is produced.

Sage goes well in pies and other sweet pastries, which will add an unusual aroma.


Meat dishes with sage last longer and their taste is enhanced.

Dishes with sage

  • ?Using this plant, Italians produce the best dishes. If you want to create a pasta sauce, use butter, which is heated together with sage leaves.
  • Saltimbocca is a dish in which sage leaves are attached to the chop with a toothpick.
  • Roasted potatoes are not left out - some cooks prefer to add sage.
  • Basically, only the greenish-gray leaves of the plant “wrapped” in fluff are used in cooking. They have a wonderful aroma at the drying stage and a pleasant bitter taste.
  • Unlike other types of plants that are actively used in cooking, sage retains its taste even when cooked over fire. Therefore, it can be added at the very beginning of cooking. The main feature of the plant is the precise dosage of seasoning.


Sage does not lose its taste and aroma even during long-term cooking

Make sage lemonade for one serving.

For this we need the following ingredients:

  • 5 gr. fresh sage
  • Lime – 25 grams.
  • Pear juice – 100 milliliters.
  • Sparkling water - 50 milliliters.
  • Crushed ice.

Cooking instructions

For lemonade, choose a large glass, into which we cut 25 grams into pieces. lime Add 5 g. sage

To transform the ice into small “shards,” we use an automatic kitchen appliance (a food processor) with a good mechanism, or cover it with a towel and beat it several times with a chop hammer. Then pour some crushed ice into the glass.

Pour ice to the rim of the glass and carefully pour 100 ml. pear juice: you can use both juice in bags and freshly squeezed. Add a little sugar (more for freshly squeezed juice) and mix thoroughly with a spoon (you can use either a bar spoon or a regular one). Add 50 ml. sparkling water.

The finished drink can be decorated with a slice of lemon or a plant leaf.


Braised pork with milk

  • 2 kg. pork
  • 50 ml. olive oil.
  • 2 pcs. fresh rosemary.
  • 2 sage leaves.
  • 2 pcs. juniper berries.
  • 4 bay leaves.
  • 1 clove of garlic.
  • 1 tsp sea ​​salt.
  • 0.5 tbsp. dry white wine.
  • 750 ml. milk.
  • 0.5 tsp ground pepper.

Prepares in 3 hours 15 minutes, for 8 servings.

Cooking instructions

Cut 2 kg of boneless meat in half and rub with salt and ground pepper. Pour 50 ml into a heavy-duty saucepan. olive oil and heat it up.

At the moment of hissing, throw in two finely chopped juniper berries and a couple of sprigs of plants (sage and rosemary). After 1 minute, add 1 clove of garlic and mix for 60 seconds.

When a golden crust forms, place the meat in a container and fry from different edges until the surface appears (about 10 minutes). 0.5 tbsp. Pour white wine into the container with the pork, bringing to a boil.

We wait until half of the poured wine has evaporated and pour 750 ml. milk. After boiling, immediately turn off the stove. Transfer to the oven, where the temperature is 175 degrees.

Stewing is carried out for two and a half hours, the meat is periodically turned over and checked for readiness. If we see that the meat is no longer hard, put it on the kitchen table and cover with foil.

The sauce that was stewed with the meat can be used as a sauce. First filter it through a fine sieve and pour it back into the container until a thick form is formed. The meat is cut into large slices and served along with the prepared sauce.


In medicine

The plant has the following medicinal properties:

  • An effective natural medicine for inflammatory diseases of certain organs.
  • Used for gumboils, gingivitis, sore throat, bleeding gums.
  • Helps with cough.
  • It is an antipyretic.
  • Restores the integrity of the skin in short periods of time.
  • Used in the form of lotions and compresses.
  • Skin diseases, arthritis and purulent wounds.
  • Used in the form of complex therapy for female infertility.
  • Useful for diabetics, helps lower blood sugar levels.
  • The plant is useful for men, improves potency.
  • A natural antibiotic that has an accelerated effect on recovery from certain infections.
  • The herb is a tonic, relieves fatigue and strengthens the immune system.
  • Forms the most elastic blood vessels and prevents the formation of atherosclerosis. Improves brain activity.
  • An excellent remedy for strengthening hair roots, slows down baldness and, in some cases, stops it.
  • It is used in the bath for microbial eczema and as a douche for vulvitis and vaginitis.


Sage is widely used for medicinal and preventive purposes; it is even used in infertility therapy

Sage tea

  • Brewing tea with sage can help relieve sore throats.
  • Sage strengthens the immune system. The composition includes antioxidants that remove free radicals from the body. Therefore, sage can be called an excellent prevention against heart disease or the formation of a malignant tumor.
  • The consequences of high fever and restlessness are reduced thanks to a compress based on sage tea. This tonic property, which allows it to penetrate the skin, will reduce fever and its manifestation.
  • Excellent help during the menstrual cycle, especially with abdominal pain. Improves digestion in the stomach. Tea also helps with the accumulation of gases in the stomach.
  • It will get you out of depression and improve your memory. It has been scientifically proven that people who drink sage tea have much better memory.
  • Sage is a natural sedative that relaxes the brain. A person quickly copes with a stressful state.
  • It reduces the level of sweating.
  • Has an anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Reduces pain in joints, throat, muscles.


How to make sage tea

To prepare tea with sage, you need to heat the water, add 1 tbsp. l. dried sage or fresh finely chopped leaves. Pour boiling water over and let it brew. Cover the mug and strain the tea after 4 minutes. To make it tastier, add a slice of lemon or a teaspoon of honey.

Attention! In addition to the beneficial effects of prepared tea, there are a number of negative effects that should be considered. Allergic reactions are possible. The plant can actively interact with medications. You need to consult with specialists. Should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women. This option is more suitable when mothers want to wean their children from breastfeeding.

In cosmetology

Sage extract is used in cosmetics in the form of:

  • Balm.
  • Crema.
  • Shampoos.
  • Skin care products.

In addition, sage-based products are used:

  • In cosmetology in the form of an effective plant that can rejuvenate the skin.
  • The plant helps tighten the skin, reducing damage and new scars.
  • Infusions and decoctions of sage prevent hair loss and promote accelerated growth.
  • If your lips become chapped, a sage-based chapstick helps. Creates an anti-inflammatory film, protecting lips from the influence of external weather factors.


Sage has also proven itself in cosmetology; it is included in various hair and skin care products.

For decorative purposes

  • Some types of plants are used for decorative purposes by landscape designers. They grow quite quickly and do not require special care. They combine quite successfully with other plants. Used in flower beds and misborders.
  • Growing

    Selecting a location


    Sage prefers to grow in sunny places with humus soil.

    Care

    Sage should be watered sparingly and best on dry days. They do not need excessive moisture. Young shoots are watered more often. Be sure to carry out loosening and weeding. During growth, you can feed with compost. Then, when caring for it, the sage is pruned at the moment of flowering.

    By winter, trim as much as possible and compact with compost. If the winter has little snow and severe frosts, cover the plant with brushwood. If properly pruned each year, sage will produce more leaves, but flowering will be reduced.

    In principle, in the form of culinary and medicinal plants, pruning is an excellent method for increasing production, but for decorative purposes it is not.


    Sage can be prepared for planting as seedlings

    Landing

    • The soil is dug to a depth of 30 centimeters. They clear the weeds, after which the soil is loosened and harrowed.
    • The width between rows is from 70 cm.
    • You will see the first bores in three weeks. Remove the weeds again and loosen the soil.
    • Sage is a plant that does not get sick and is extremely rarely affected by insects.
    • As a rule, in the first year the plant grows shoots. If you clear old shoots in time, new ones will soon appear and larger leaves will grow. They are collected twice a year. First before flowering, and after - in early autumn. Leaves are plucked by hand. The leaves located below are collected first. And in the fall - the rest.
    • The drying method is carried out under a canopy in air. The collected leaves should be spread out in a thin layer.
    • Seeds are harvested during the drilling process in cups located below. Raw materials are stored in containers with maximum sealing. Shelf life - up to 1 year.


Salvia officinalis has been used in folk medicine since ancient times. The healing properties of the plant are described in the works of healers of Ancient Greece, Egypt and Rome. The legendary physician Hippocrates called Sage a “sacred herb” and advised its use for general strengthening and rejuvenation of the body, as well as the treatment of a number of diseases.

The homeland of this herb is the Mediterranean, from where Sage came to other regions with trade caravans.

Note:Salvia officinalis should not be confused with Meadow sage, which grows almost everywhere in our country. Only the first type is characterized by healing properties, since it contains a significantly higher content of biologically active substances.

Salvia officinalis is a herbaceous cross-pollinated perennial plant or subshrub belonging to the Lamiaceae family. The height of the straight branched stems, woody at the base, reaches 70 cm. The leaves are gray-green, densely pubescent, oblong in shape. Flowers with purple corollas are collected in inflorescences. Flowering time is June-July, and the fruits ripen in late summer - early autumn.

This herb is not found in the wild on the territory of the Russian Federation, but is cultivated almost everywhere. The grass is an excellent honey plant.

Salvia officinalis leaves, as well as grass tops with inflorescences, are prepared as medicinal raw materials, which are dried in well-ventilated attics or under a canopy. The plant substrate is stored in bags in rooms with low humidity levels.

The leaves, as well as the inflorescences of the plant contain a large amount of aromatic essential oil. Organic acids (formic and acetic), pinene, bioflavonoids, tannins, camphor, vitamins B1, and tannins, paradiphenol, salvin phytoncide and the terpenoid compound linalool were found in Sage. The seeds contain a lot of fatty oil and proteins, and coumarin was found in the roots of the unique plant.

Beneficial features

For what diseases is Sage indicated?

Medicines based on Salvia officinalis are indicated for the following diseases and pathological conditions:

  • various diseases of the digestive tract;
  • pathologies of the kidneys and urinary tract (in particular - and);
  • viral infections (as a general tonic to enhance immunity);
  • spicy and ;
  • neuritis;
  • diabetes;
  • polyarthritis;
  • radiculitis;
  • inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity (,);
  • bronchial (to relieve attacks);
  • a number of dermatological diseases (including mycoses);
  • chronic fatigue;
  • hysteria;
  • increased sweating.

Note:Externally, Sage preparations are prescribed for the speedy healing of wounds, thermal wounds, and ulcers.

Sage contains a high concentration of plant analogues of estrogens, so it is used for disorders characteristic of menopause in women (nervousness and hot flashes). The hemostatic effect helps reduce blood loss during heavy and prolonged menstruation.

A decoction of Sage herb is used to prepare sitz baths for.

Sage is part of gastric preparations that help fight flatulence, improve motility of the digestive tract, improve appetite and stimulate the secretion and discharge of bile.

The plant can strengthen general immunity, increase mental activity and physical endurance.

Note:The pleasant-smelling essential oil of Sage is used in aromatherapy to relieve fatigue and relieve psycho-emotional stress.In cosmetology, decoctions are prescribed to combat dandruff and to reduce oily skin.

Contraindications to the use of Sage

Salvia officinalis preparations should not be taken in case of acute inflammation of the kidneys (decreased production of thyroid hormones), as well as in case of individual hypersensitivity to the active substances.

Since the medicinal herb has estrogenic properties, it is strictly contraindicated in women diagnosed with polycystic disease, fibroids or.

Another contraindication to taking Sage medications is pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Salvia officinalis contains a large number of active phytohormones, which in their nature of action are close to female sex hormones. Biologically active compounds in the herb compensate for the lack of estrogen and stimulate the process of their production. Thanks to this, the plant can help with problems caused by disturbances in the ovulation process.

In order for conception to occur, it is recommended to take a water infusion of Sage, starting from the 3-4th day of menstruation until the moment when the egg is expected to reach its largest size. In particular, with a regular 28-day cycle, taking the drug should be completed on days 11-12. After ovulation, Salvia preparations cannot be taken, as they increase the tone of the muscles of the uterus and fallopian tubes and can interfere with the attachment of a fertilized egg.

Sage infusion recipe for infertility

Take 1 tbsp. l. dried and thoroughly crushed leaves of the plant and pour 200 ml of boiling water. Infuse in a well-sealed container for 15 minutes, then cool and strain. Drink a third of a glass 4 times a day.

If conception has not occurred, then it is advisable to take the Sage infusion according to the previous regimen for another 1-2 cycles. This course of infertility treatment can be carried out no more than 3 times per year.

Infusions and decoctions of Salvia officinalis are strictly contraindicated for pregnant women, since stimulation of uterine tone can cause spontaneous abortion (miscarriage) or premature birth. It should also be taken into account that the active substances of the medicinal herb reduce the biosynthesis of progesterone, which is necessary during pregnancy.

For the same reason, you should not take Sage during breastfeeding, although it is completely safe for infants.

If for some reason you need to stop lactation, then the herb infusion will help reduce the level of synthesis of the hormone prolactin, as a result of which the production of breast milk will gradually decrease.

Important:Sage helps fight mastitis and congestion in the mammary gland.

Recipe for Sage tea to reduce lactation

Take 1 tsp. chopped dry herb (or 1 whole stalk with inflorescence) and pour 200 ml of boiling water. Leave for 10 minutes, cool, strain and take a third of a glass 3 times a day.

Recipe for Salvia officinalis decoction for rinsing and external use

This decoction is used to make lotions, baths and douches for gynecological and skin diseases, as well as diseases of the throat and oral mucosa

Take 1 tbsp. l. crushed dry leaves or 2-3 stems with inflorescences, pour 200 ml of water and place in a water bath for 15-20 minutes. Cool the finished broth, strain and add boiled water to the original volume.

Immediately before the procedure, it is recommended to warm the drug to body temperature. The finished broth can be prepared for future use and stored in the refrigerator, but no more than 12 hours.

Sage decoction is used for rinsing for dental diseases (gingivitis and stomatitis), as well as for rubbing gums with removable dentures and for inflammation of the socket after tooth extraction. For rinsing, 200 ml of the drug is used. Frequency of application – 5-6 times a day.

For laryngitis, sore throat and sore throat due to acute respiratory infections, rinsing with a decoction 4-5 times a day is recommended. The anti-inflammatory and bactericidal properties of the herb allow you to quickly relieve the symptoms of the disease.

Douching and sitz baths with a decoction are indicated for vaginitis and cervical erosion. It is recommended to carry out the procedures 2 times a day. The optimal temperature of the drug is about 38°C.

For wounds and frostbite of the skin, as well as for the treatment of fungal diseases, neurodermatitis and psoriasis, the affected areas should be washed with a decoction 4 times a day. Sage will help reduce swelling and relieve itching. In addition, the grass promotes rapid tissue regeneration. If the wound is festering, then instead of washing it is advisable to use blotting using clean gauze soaked in the broth.

For seborrhea, dandruff and alopecia (hair loss), you should rinse your hair with the broth after washing.

Recipe for infusion for oral administration for bloating, to improve bile flow and treat bronchitis

Take 1 tbsp. l. crushed dry inflorescences or leaves of the plant, pour 250 ml of boiling water and leave in a tightly closed container for half an hour.

In case of impaired intestinal motility and flatulence, drink a quarter glass 4 times a day half an hour before meals. A course of treatment is indicated; Course duration – 7 days.

As a mucolytic and expectorant for bronchitis, it is advisable to prepare an infusion using milk instead of water. Take 100 ml hot three times a day.

In pharmacy chains you can purchase alcoholic tinctures of Sage, as well as preparations containing an extract of this medicinal herb (Salvin).

Sage for children

For children of preschool and high school age, baths with Sage decoction are recommended as a general tonic (additionally, it is recommended to add sea salt). You can make lotions with a decoction to heal wounds, treat burns and reduce swelling from bruises.

Children of the older age group should drink water infusions mixed with milk and honey or do inhalations when coughing. If you are allergic to honey, you can replace it with butter.

Plisov Vladimir, herbalist