Sage medicinal properties and side effects. Sage herb

The name of the sage plant in Latin is salvia “salvere”, which means “to be healthy”. The great Hippocrates spoke of salvia with reverence as a “sacred herb,” and the ancient Greeks claimed that sage is a plant that conquers death. Salvia (Salvia) has many species, and it can be difficult to distinguish which Salvia officinalis.

These are garden flowers with scarlet, black and blue small flowers, collected in tall thin bunches. They decorate flower beds and garden beds until the end of September. This plant is popularly called salvia. There is clary sage - Salvia sclarea. And there is medicinal sage - Salvia officinalis.

Salvia officinalis: description

Salvia (sage) – perennial. Sage grows as a low semi-bush. The stem is hard and rigid at the base of the bush. The bush is well branched and grows no higher than half a meter. The stems are abundantly leafy. The blue or lilac small flowers of Salvia officinalis have a short stalk and are collected in the shape of a spike. The leaves of Salvia officinalis are elongated, muted green in color, with a slightly uneven surface of the leaf blade.

The natural habitat of sage is the Mediterranean highlands. In our area, sage has taken root in flower beds; it is loved and valued by gardeners for its pleasant smell and healing properties. The plant is a wonderful honey plant, and the honey mixed with sage is beautiful, dark with a golden tint.

Chemical composition of medicinal sage

Sage is rich flavonoids, alkaloids and tannins, phytoncides and bitterness. He has oleanolic, ursolic and chlorogenic acids. The plant is a supplier nicotinic acid, bitterness and phytoncides. Sage essential oil is valuable for its high content terpene compounds.

Salvia (sage) greens are isolated camphor. Camphor oil is the main remedy for the treatment of bedsores in bedridden patients.

What are the benefits of medicinal sage?

Since ancient times, sage has been used to treat viral diseases, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and kidneys.

Did you know? In sage, not only the leaves, flowers and seeds are healing, but also the roots.

Salvia officinalis roots and its properties have long been used as an analgesic for rheumatism, arthritis and joint pain. For inflammation of the lymph nodes, furunculosis, mastitis and myalgic dysmenorrhea.

Drugs containing salvia officinalis are used for ulcers and skin disorders. Sage also helps in cases of gingivitis, mumps, burns and ulcers. In gynecology, sage and preparations based on it are also often used, mainly in the form of douches, suppositories and lotions with a decoction.

The herb is also used in the treatment of infertility in women. Salvia officinalis is an unusual plant, and the properties of sage are unique. It helps with inflammatory processes, promotes blood clotting and has diuretic properties.

The use of sage in folk medicine

This plant is widely used in folk medicine to treat various diseases and for cosmetic purposes.

How to cure a cold with sage

For colds, bronchitis, and sore throats, gargle with sage and inhale.

• Sage tea with honey helps with cough. To prepare this tea 1 tbsp. spoon of herbs pour 1 tbsp. boiling water and let stand for a quarter of an hour, after which 1 tbsp is dissolved in the infusion. a spoonful of honey. This herbal tea is drunk 3 times during the day.
• For wheezing and colds in the bronchi, inhalation:Salvia officinalis oil (1-2 g) is dipped into boiling water over low heat, covered with a towel and carefully inhaled herbal vapors.
• If pneumonia is suspected, prepare the following decoction: 2 tbsp. spoons of herbs are poured into one glass of milk. Boil and strain to remove herbal residues. Drink the prepared “herbal” milk warm at night.
• In case of atrophic rhinitis add 0.5 liters of boiling water to three tablespoons of sage. Cover the container with the future infusion tightly, leave for two hours and filter through cheesecloth. Warm infusion suck into the nose a couple of times a day (wash).

The use of sage for memory loss

A person’s memory weakens not only in old age, but also with drinking, smoking, stress or insomnia. There may be thousands of different reasons for violations of this nature. Some herbs help strengthen brain function. According to experts, sage increases the concentration of chemicals in the brain that are responsible for transmitting intracerebral messages.

Researchers at Northumbria University conducted a study in which 44 volunteers were randomly given sage or a placebo. It was concluded that participants treated with sage performed better on the tests. It is assumed that treatment with salvia officinalis will give good results in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.

How is sage used to treat infertility?

Herbal medicinal collection with the addition of sage herb is suitable for teas, decoctions and tinctures. Cosmetics with sage refreshes, tightens and rejuvenates the skin. Sage phytoncides act as a mild aphrodisiac. Tinctures made from mixed compositions of linden and sage flowers increase libido and, when treated, relieve women of frigidity.

Academician Engalychev, a Soviet researcher of the properties of medicinal plants, back in 1948 recommended the use of sage juice mixed with a small amount of table salt in the treatment of infertility.

Sage seeds soaked in grape wine have long been used to prepare a tincture for female infertility. Even in the world of the ancient pyramids, temple priests noticed a connection between a woman's consumption of sage and pregnancy. Temple priests gifted parishioners with sage and taught young women to prepare such teas.

Infusion for the treatment of infertility:

• 1 tbsp. l. dry sage;
• 1 tbsp. hot water.

Pour boiling water over the sage, tightly cover the container with the decoction and let it sit for a quarter of an hour. Drink the infusion 3-4 times a day, a third of a glass, 30 minutes before meals.

Start drinking the herb immediately after your period ends and continue treatment for 11 days. At the end of the third course of herbal treatment, a break in use of at least two months is required.

Sage and breastfeeding

Sage is harmful to nursing mothers, since eating this herb reduces and then completely stops lactation. And the tannins found in sage can cause constipation in the baby.

When the child has grown up and is about to be weaned, women are prescribed sage. When you consume it, the milk becomes less and less until lactation completely stops.

Painless cessation of lactation allows women to avoid mastitis.

How to take sage for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT)

Salvia officinalis exhibits its beneficial properties in the treatment of stomach ulcers and intestinal diseases. Doctors prescribe sage for stomach colic, flatulence and inflammatory processes in the gallbladder.

• For inflammation of the gallbladder, use tincture from sage in boiling water: Measure 5 g of dry sage herb into a container and pour 0.5 liters of boiling water on top. Cover with a lid and leave for an hour. Drink 50 ml every 2-3 hours.
• If the pancreas is bothering you, prepare the following medicine: take five spoons of sage, yarrow and calendula leaves. Mix herbs. Next, brew herbal tea and drink until the pain stops bothering you. For 1 tbsp. take a spoonful of herbal mixture and one glass of hot water.
• For diseases of gastritis or duodenitis: 2 teaspoons of herbs pour 2 tbsp. boiling water They insist for half an hour. Use 1 tbsp every two hours. spoon. Drink the infusion until the pain disappears.
• Sage is often used for constipation by simply drinking weak sage teas once a day. To prepare this tea: 1 tbsp. l. sage, pour 0.5 liters of boiling water and leave for 10 minutes.

When treating serious diseases, medications and their dosage should be determined by a doctor. Self-medication is unacceptable!

The use of medicinal sage in dentistry

Dentists also use the antiseptic properties of sage to treat bleeding gums and stomatitis.

To combat pulpitis, use a paste containing sage essential oils.

• Helps in the treatment of gum inflammation, gumboil or sore throat a mixture of sage decoction and oak bark decoction. To prepare this medicine, you need to take 5 g of dry sage per 1 glass of water and boil over low heat for 10 minutes. Next, take 5 g of dry oak bark per 1 tbsp. water and boil at low boil for 10 minutes. The finished decoctions are cooled slightly, mixed and filtered through a strainer. The decoction is ready, it needs to be heated before use. Gargle with moderately hot broth every two hours.
• If your teeth hurt, use sage decoction: For 1 tablespoon of herb, take a glass of water, boil the water with the herb for 10 minutes and rinse your mouth with warm infusion. When taking a herbal decoction into your mouth, try to hold the liquid against the disturbing tooth for several minutes. Do 8-10 such rinses in 20-30 minutes.

Using medicinal sage for cosmetic purposes

Sage decoction is used to strengthen hair. Rinsing with a decoction of sage or applying a mask with its addition to the hair stops hair loss and heals the hair follicles. Below are recipes for hair with medicinal sage.

Tincture for accelerated hair regeneration

Ingredients:

• 0.5 l of vodka;
• 0.5 l apple cider vinegar;
• 7 tbsp. l. sage leaves;
• 7 tbsp. l. chopped rosemary leaves;
• 15th century l. nettle leaves.

Preparation of tincture:

Mix the herbs, place in a glass jar with a tight lid, pour in vodka and add apple cider vinegar. Seal and keep the tincture in a cool, dark place for two weeks. Shake the tincture daily. After the infusion period has expired, strain. The tincture is ready for use. It must be stored refrigerated. Make hair masks with the prepared tincture.

How to use the tincture

Apply the tincture to dry, unwashed hair. Distribute evenly throughout the hair and rub the product into the roots of the hair in a circular motion. Continue rubbing for 5-7 minutes. After rubbing, wrap your hair in plastic and tie a scarf. For oily hair, leave the mask on overnight. If the hair is normal, the mask is washed off after two hours. The course of treatment is fifteen masks, the frequency of procedures is every two days.

Rinse decoction for strengthening hair

Ingredients:

• 300 ml boiling water.

Preparation of the decoction:

Pour boiling water over the herb, cover with a lid and leave for half an hour. Strain through a strainer and rinse your hair after washing.

Strengthening hair mask with sage

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp. l. chopped sage leaves;
• 2 tbsp. l. chopped burdock root;
• 1 tbsp. l. crushed chamomile flowers;
• 1 tbsp. l. crushed lavender flowers;
• 2 liters of boiling water.

Preparation of the mask:

Mix dry herbs, pour boiling water and leave for 30 minutes in a sealed container. Strain the infusion and rinse clean, damp hair. Dry your hair without washing the infusion from your hair.

Did you know? The cream, which contains sage extract, rejuvenates the skin at the cellular level.

Rubbing with an ice cube in the morning is very beneficial for the face. Cosmetic ice is prepared from a decoction of herbs, including a decoction of sage. Rubbing the skin with ice leads to instant stimulation of metabolic processes in the body. Elasticity and blush return to the skin. Tiny wrinkles disappear. Sage is suitable for all skin types.

Making an infusion for further freezing is easy:

1 tbsp. l. sage is poured with 1 glass of boiling water and left for half an hour. After which the infusion is poured into molds for freezing ice and sent to the freezer.

Important! If you suffer from sinusitis, icy face rubs are strictly contraindicated for you.

How to prepare and store medicinal sage

Medicinal preparations from sage are created on the basis of fresh or dry leaves of the plant. In order to preserve all the valuable properties of sage, you need to collect it in time and dry it properly.

The first rule for collecting medicinal plants is collecting herbs away from highways and cities so that the plant does not absorb heavy metals or harmful chemicals. An environmentally friendly collection of Salvia officinalis can be used for two years.

Summer harvesting of sage

The highest content of essential oils in Salvia officinalis occurs at the beginning of summer. The leaves and flowers collected in June are of greatest value. They begin collecting sage at the beginning of flowering.

Strong, healthy sage leaves are suitable for preparations. At the first signs of flowering, the panicles with inflorescences are cut off.

When collecting, flowers should not fall off. Carefully and neatly collected flowers and leaves are dried. The raw materials of sage are laid out on paper or cloth in the shade, in well-ventilated places. You can dry medicinal plants in a suspended state, in the form of brooms. Harvesting sage lasts 18-20 days. When the plant fades, the collection stops.

Autumn harvesting of sage

At the beginning of autumn, new young leaves grow on the plant, the sage begins to throw out flowers again, and the collection of medicinal herbs can continue. The autumn harvest is almost as valuable as the June harvest. Sage is harvested in the fall in the same way as in the summer. Due to autumn rains, drying the plant is sometimes difficult. You can dry the collected herbs in the oven at a temperature of 40 ° C and with the oven door slightly open.

Dry crushed leaves and flowers of sage are an important component of many complex herbal preparations. Used for the treatment of skin diseases, ulcers and wounds fresh sage leaves. Most effective for treating colds freshly prepared infusions and teas from dry sage.

Oils, ointments and candles for external use are made from sage. The shelf life of such ointments is no more than 18 months.

Alcohol tinctures with sage used for compresses and lotions. Such alcohol tinctures should be stored in dark glass bottles and avoid direct sunlight. If all storage conditions are met, alcohol tinctures do not lose their beneficial properties for two years.

Alcohol tinctures used as medicines with antiseptic and antispasmodic effects. Water-based infusions used in gynecology and in the treatment of diabetes.

Important! In home treatment, you need to remember that infusions and decoctions of sage leaves are good for diarrhea, as an antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory agent. They improve digestion, reduce sweating and have restorative properties.

Who might be harmed by consuming sage?

Any medicine must be used carefully, and herbs are no exception. Salvia officinalis also has contraindications.

With all the benefits and medicinal qualities of sage, it It is not recommended for people with high blood pressure and hypotension, patients with epilepsy and people in a state of emotional instability.

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helped

Salvia officinalis is one of the most popular remedies used by traditional healers. The healing properties of the plant have been known for thousands of years. It was successfully used by ancient Egyptian, ancient Greek and ancient Roman physicians. The father of medicine, Hippocrates, called it the “sacred herb.” During the Middle Ages, laudatory odes were composed in his honor. The effectiveness of the products is recognized by official medicine. They are prescribed by doctors to treat various ailments.

Salvia officinalis is one of the most popular remedies used by traditional healers.

The genus Sage belongs to the family Lamiaceae, or Lamiaceae. Its other name, Salvia, is derived from the Latin word “salvus,” which means “unharmed,” “in good health.” In ancient times, the medicinal plant was considered a female herb. It was used to heal infertility and support women in labor. In the Middle Ages, it was grown en masse in the territories of monasteries. It was used to treat many ailments - from colds to severe poisoning - and was added to dishes as a seasoning.

The genus Sage has 900 species. Its representatives grow wild in most of both hemispheres of the Earth. The exception is Australia. The greatest species diversity is found on the American continents. But only a few species of a large genus are used for therapeutic purposes.

The plant's homeland is the territory of Southern Europe (Greece, Spain, Italy). It is often found there in the wild on the high plateaus. Its shaggy grey-green foliage has been used in traditional Mediterranean cuisine for many centuries. It has a fragrant aroma and tart spicy taste. Thanks to the active work of merchants, the medicinal plant spread from the Mediterranean throughout the world. Unlike traditional healers, official medicine uses only this type of sage.

The genus Sage belongs to the family Lamiaceae, or Lamiaceae.

This grass prefers well-lit places with light, fertile soil of normal acidity. It is difficult to tolerate cold and often dies during frosty and snowless winters. Drought is not a danger. The plant practically does not suffer from prolonged absence of moisture.

Sage is a good honey plant. In addition to sweetish aromatic nectar, it produces glue, which is also collected by bees. Honey from this herb has a dark golden hue and a delicate, pleasant smell. It has pronounced medicinal properties.

It is grown culturally on special plantations in the southern regions of Russia and the Caucasus. In central Russia, meadow sage is found in the wild. Its characteristics resemble the description of a medicinal species. However, the meadow subspecies does not have pronounced medicinal properties, like its relative.

Gallery: Salvia officinalis (25 photos)

Sage - beneficial properties and applications (video)

Botanical description of the species

Salvia is a small shrub. It can grow up to 20-75 cm in height. The perennial has straight, heavily leafy stems. In the root zone they are round and woody. The tops of the stems are herbaceous. They have a tetrahedral surface and a gray-green color. In winter, the herbaceous part of the plant dies off. It has a branched woody root. In its lower part there is a lush lobe of thin roots.

The leaves of the perennial are blunt or pointed. They have the shape of an elongated ellipse. Their length ranges from 8 cm, and their width is 0.8-4 cm. The white-felt wrinkled surface of the green mass gives it a silvery tint. The upper leaves are sessile, and the lower and middle ones are on cuttings. The size of the bract leaves is several times smaller than usual.

The buds are collected in simple or branched spike-shaped inflorescences with 6-7 spaced 10-flowered false whorls. Inflorescences form at the tops of the stems. The length of the flower calyx does not exceed 1 cm. It is divided into 2 lips up to almost half its height. The bluish-purple corolla is approximately 2 times longer than the calyx. A column protrudes from it. The stigma of flowers has 2 unequal lobes. The buds bloom from late May to July in the second year of the growing season. Belongs to cross-pollinating plants.

From August to September the perennial fruits ripen. They are round, dark brown nuts. Their diameter does not exceed 3 mm. Dry fruits have 4 lobes. Seeds can remain viable for 3 years.

Procurement rules

Inflorescences and leaves are used for medicinal purposes. The first collection of raw materials is carried out in the year of sowing, not earlier than September. Next year you can collect foliage and tops several times. They are harvested during budding, as well as throughout the entire period of flowering and seed ripening (until the end of October). Inflorescences and leaves located above 10 cm from the ground are cut from the semi-shrub. When young leaves appear on the bare stems, they are plucked again. In one season it is possible to collect raw materials 3 times. Sometimes grass is harvested by mowing.

To get a higher yield with good quality, the perennial is rejuvenated in early spring. Before sap flow begins, last year's stems are cut off at soil level. Powerful, densely leafy vegetative shoots will grow from dormant buds.

It is necessary to dry raw materials in well-ventilated areas or outdoors under a canopy. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Leaves and tops with inflorescences are laid out in a thin layer (3-5 cm) on flat surfaces covered with cloth or paper. You can harvest the grass using a dryer. Recommended drying temperature +40…+60°С. Higher rates will cause loss of essential oil.

It is necessary to dry raw materials in well-ventilated areas or outdoors under a canopy.

The raw material of the first summer harvest gives 25% dry weight. The autumn harvest allows you to get up to 35% dry weight. The seeds can be collected when they begin to darken in the lower calyxes.

Properly prepared raw materials retain their natural smell and shade. Dried grass breaks when bent. If parts of the plant are yellowed, darkened, stuck together or crumbled, they have not dried correctly. The harvested leaves and tops are poured into linen bags and stored in a well-ventilated, dry place. The use of raw materials is possible for 1.5 years.

What Salvia officinalis contains

It contains essential oil. Its highest concentration is in foliage (up to 2.5%). The essential oil contains: cineole (up to 15%), D-alpha-pinene, D-camphor, D-borneol, salven, linalool, cedren, alpha and beta thujone. Alkaloids, phytohormones, bitterness, flavonoids, aromatic resins, uvaol, paradiphenol, tannins, vitamins P, B1, B9, C and PP, minerals (calcium, magnesium), phytoncides, as well as organic acids (oleanolic acid) were found in the leaves and inflorescences. , urosolic, chlorogenic).

The seeds contain protein (20%) and fatty oil (25-30%). It is represented predominantly by glycerides of aminolinoleic acid. Coumarin was found in the juice of salvia roots.

The highest concentration of essential oil is found in raw materials collected during seed ripening (August-September). Tannins accumulate in the fall (October, November).

Beneficial features

The essential oil contained in the plant has an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect. It has antifungal activity and stimulates the glands of the digestive tract. Volatile phytoncides destroy bacteria, fungi and protozoa, quickly suppressing the growth of their colonies. Even the tuberculosis bacillus is not resistant to the phytoncides of this herb. In terms of its effectiveness, salvia essential oil is equal to Vishnevsky ointment.

Urosolic acid has a pronounced anti-inflammatory, antitumor and antimicrobial effect. Anti-inflammatory properties are also due to the presence of tannins, flavonoid compounds and vitamin P in its composition. These substances increase the density of epithelial tissues, in addition, they reduce the permeability of cell membranes, walls of lymphatic and blood vessels.

Tannins have an astringent, analgesic and vasoconstrictor effect. They help reduce mucus production in the body.

Chlorogenic acid is a powerful antioxidant with antimutagenic, antimicrobial and antiviral activity.

Aromatic resins impart a pleasant aroma. They have wound healing and antimicrobial properties.

Folic acid (vitamin B9) supports hematopoiesis and prevents the development of atherosclerosis.

Salvin is of particular value. This substance gives the medicinal plant antiseptic properties and acts as a powerful natural antibiotic. It can inhibit the proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus, which is resistant to many antibacterial drugs. Sage not only inhibits the growth of colonies of microorganisms, but also neutralizes their toxin (alpha toxin). It does not allow bacteria to have a hemolytic (destroy red blood cells) and dermatonecrotic (cause death of skin cells) effect.

The use of the perennial is limited by the thujone it contains. This substance has a hallucinogenic effect. With prolonged use of plant-based products, addiction develops (absintheism syndrome).

Sage - healing herb (video)

Use Cases

It is widely used in folk and official medicine. It is used as an external agent for treating the mucous membranes of the respiratory system. The perennial is a component of many cough remedies. It has proven its effectiveness in treating serious diseases such as pneumonia and tuberculosis.

Due to its antibacterial and diuretic properties, the herb is successfully used in the treatment of urinary tract ailments. The high content of phytohormones determines the use of the plant in the treatment of female pathologies. Products based on it are prescribed to reduce the symptoms of menopause and treat infertility. Hemostatic properties are used to reduce blood loss during prolonged and heavy menstruation. The presence of phytohormones allows the use of sage for rejuvenating purposes. Women over 35 years old are recommended to take perennial decoctions three times a year to slow down the aging process.

For diseases of the digestive system, preparations with sage help get rid of bloating, intestinal colic and constipation. They improve peristalsis of all parts of the intestine, increase appetite and have a choleretic effect.

As an external remedy it is prescribed for fungal skin lesions. It helps to heal difficult-to-heal and purulent wounds. Salvia is successfully used for psoriasis, eczema and hemorrhoids. It is used to treat skin areas with burns and frostbite, and also to treat boils. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of the herb are widely used in dentistry. It is effective for stomatitis, gingivitis and periodontitis.

Salvia has pronounced antioxidant and immunostimulating properties. As a result of its use, memory and reaction improve. Allows you to increase attention and performance.

Sage extracts are included in many preparations for the treatment of acne. They are used to reduce sweating and oily skin. With the help of salvia, you can get rid of dark circles under the eyes.

Salvia officinalis helps alleviate the patient's condition with radiculitis, polyarthritis and neuritis. It is used in the initial stages of diabetes mellitus and to relieve asthmatic attacks.

Methods of using prepared raw materials

Application depends on the disease. The infusion is taken internally. To prepare it, 1 tbsp. l. crushed raw materials are poured into a bowl and 1 cup of boiling water is poured into it. The liquid is infused for 1 hour and then filtered through gauze. It is recommended to drink the infusion three times a day, 100 ml, 20 minutes before meals.

In the treatment of hemorrhoids, enemas with a concentrated infusion of salvia are used. 3 tbsp. l. dry crushed raw materials are poured with 100 ml of boiling water and the liquid is infused for 1 hour, wrapping the container in a blanket. The finished infusion is diluted with 1 liter of warm water.

When treating diseases, perennial decoctions of varying concentrations are used. For oral administration, prepare a medicine from 1 tbsp. l. dry raw materials and 1 cup boiling water. The plant is crushed in a mortar, poured into a saucepan and water is added to it. Place the container on the fire, bring to a boil and cook the herb for 10 minutes. The decoction is infused for half an hour, then consumed ½-⅓ glass three times a day before meals. You can prepare a decoction in a water bath. The liquid must be simmered for 15 minutes.

For treating wounds and rinsing, a more concentrated product is used. 3 tbsp. l. crushed leaves of the plant are poured into a glass of boiling water. The product is boiled over low heat for 10 minutes or simmered in a water bath for 15 minutes.

Salvia infusion with wine helps a lot for kidney diseases. 80 g of fresh leaves are placed in a dark glass vessel and 1 liter of grape wine is poured into it. The medicine should be infused for 10-14 days in a room protected from direct sunlight. Drink 20-30 ml of sage wine immediately after each meal.

To treat diseases, your doctor may prescribe an alcohol tincture. 3 tbsp. l. crushed salvia leaves are poured into a vessel and 500 ml of vodka or diluted alcohol is poured into it. The latter must be cleaned. The medicine is infused for 1 month in direct sunlight. The drug should be taken on an empty stomach, 1 tbsp. l. 2-3 times a day, washed down with water. The tincture helps with atherosclerosis and diseases of the nervous system.

For pathologies of the respiratory system, inhalations are effective. 3-4 tbsp. l. dry leaves are poured into a saucepan, 500 ml of water is poured into it, the liquid is brought to a boil and removed from the heat. After this, you need to bend over the container with the broth and cover your head with a blanket. The hot vapors of the decoction are inhaled for 5-10 minutes.

Precautionary measures

When sage herb is used, it is necessary to take into account the medicinal properties and contraindications. You should not take perennial-based products for longer than 3 months. In addition to addiction, the plant can cause poisoning and irritation of the mucous membranes. It is not recommended to repeat courses of treatment more than 3 times a year.

It is prohibited to use perennial-based products while pregnant. The plant can increase the tone of the uterus. In the early stages of pregnancy, treatment with salvia can lead to its termination. In the second and third trimesters, it can cause placental abruption and fetal death. The biologically active substances contained in salvia officinalis reduce the level of progesterone, which is necessary for the successful bearing of a child.

Because salvia reduces milk production, it should not be used by breastfeeding women. Preparations based on plant extracts are prescribed when it is necessary to reduce lactation during weaning of a child.

It is prohibited to use sage infusions and decoctions in conditions accompanied by an increase in estrogen levels (endometriosis, breast tumors, endometrial hyperplasia), in addition, after surgery to remove malignant tumors of the mammary glands or uterus.

Since salvia-based drugs can increase blood pressure, people suffering from hypertension should not take them. Hypotensive patients should not get carried away with such treatment. Salvia officinalis can cause a deterioration in their health.

The perennial should not be used in case of decreased thyroid function, acute kidney inflammation, as well as glomerulonephritis, pyelonephritis and nephritis.

Salvia is not prescribed for severe, hysterical dry cough. The plant can lead to an increase in cough reflex.

Contraindications for use are epilepsy and age under 2 years. If there are sleep disorders, the grass can aggravate the pathological condition.

Salvia officinalis (salvia) is a useful plant from the Lamiaceae family, which has long been used in official and folk medicine. Clary sage is also beneficial and a source of essential oil. The aroma of sage cannot be forgotten, and the appearance of the plant evokes a pleasant aesthetic sensation.

The homeland of this beautiful subshrub is the Mediterranean. Accordingly, the first to use the plant for medicinal purposes were ancient Greek and Roman healers, and they used sage in the widest range. The name comes from the Greek - “health and well-being”.

Description of the plant

The plant is a perennial, reaching a maximum height of 75 cm. The root is hard and branched. Numerous stems have a tetrahedral shape and are densely dotted with oblong leaves. The flowers are irregular in shape, purple or pinkish-white, and collected in inflorescences. The fruit remains in the calyx.

Flowering begins in the second year of the growing season and continues from late May to July. Sage is cultivated in heat-loving regions of Russia, Ukraine, Crimea, and for decorative purposes. The leaves have a strong odor. The upper parts of the plant and leaves, as well as the inflorescences of clary sage, have medicinal value.

Chemical composition

Sage leaves contain:

• phytonutrients;
• alkaloids;
• flavonoids;
• phytoncides;
• resins;
• tannins;
• organic acids (ursolic, oleanolic, chlorogenic);
• elements Na, K, Ca, Cu, Fe;
• vitamins P, A, C, E, K, folic acid, B6, B2, B3 and PP;
• essential oil rich in terpene compounds;
• cellulose;
• bitterness.

Valuable essential oil is most actively produced during the fruiting period and is most contained in flowers.

100 gr. sage contain:

Sage - 14 beneficial properties

Health and youth

The presence of vitamin A in sage helps prevent age-related changes that occur in the body, enhancing the regeneration of skin cells and protecting it from the effects of free radicals; sage helps eliminate small expression lines and age spots.

Help with hair loss

Rinsing with a solution of rosemary and sage can make hair shiny and strong. The composition stimulates hair growth and improves blood circulation in the skin, providing hair follicles with nutrients. Using such procedures, you can not only improve the health of your hair, but also give vitality to thin and dry strands. The procedure must be applied once a week; it will help the healthy functioning of the hair follicles, improve the condition of the hair and prevent the formation of dandruff.

At the same time, the components of sage, which contain beta-sitosterol, will have a preventive effect on the problem of baldness. Three or four drops of sage essential oil, mixed with the same amount of rosemary, peppermint and one tablespoon of olive oil, when rubbed into the scalp, will improve the condition of the hair, giving it freshness and a shiny, healthy look.

Anti-inflammatory properties

Research conducted by the University of Vienna confirmed the anti-inflammatory properties of the herb and recommended its use as a gargle to treat inflammatory processes in the mouth and throat mucosa. German scientists recommend sage infusion to relieve inflammation of the throat and tonsils. To prepare it, steam a pinch of dry raw material in 100 ml of boiling water, leave for 10 minutes and gargle several times a day. If desired, you can add a little honey to the solution.

Help with depression and neurasthenic conditions

The colorless substance thujone, which is part of sage, and whose smell resembles menthol, helps to resist depressive states, activates brain activity, improves memory abilities aimed at the process of memorization and concentration.

Reduce sweating

For people experiencing discomfort associated with excessive sweating, the plant will provide an invaluable service. Taking it can reduce sweating by up to 50%. Its effect will also have a positive effect on women during menopause who suffer from night sweats.

Treatment of skin problems

Having anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, sage is able to resist infectious skin diseases such as eczema, eliminating rashes and itching. Ointment and decoction with herbal components reduce skin inflammation in psoriasis and heal damaged skin areas.

Improved cognitive abilities

Taking sage has a beneficial effect on impaired memory processes and improves concentration. Scientific research on this topic, although in its early stages, still states an increase in the production of acetylcholinesterase, which helps to better assimilate information. This fact confirms the possibility of using the herb for Alzheimer's disease, which is associated with impaired attention, memory and communication abilities. Sage essential oils help maintain brain activity in older people.

Help for women's health

The journal Obstetrics and Gynecology published an article in May 2012 that reported the results of a study on the ability of sage in combination with lavender and marjoram to reduce menstrual pain. 75% of women showed a decrease in pain during their “critical days” and a decrease in the number of hot flashes during menopause.

Prevention of diseases of the digestive system

A decoction of the herb is a tonic drink that can eliminate sluggishness in the digestive tract. Being a carminative, it stimulates the secretion of bile, activates digestive secretions, and improves the functions of the pancreas and liver. Rosmarinic acid prevents stomach cramps, eliminates diarrhea, reducing inflammatory processes in the intestines.

Help with asthma

The plant has an antispasmodic effect in chronic inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract. By using steam inhalations with sage extract, chest congestion is relieved, mucus accumulations are removed, and the risk of secondary infections is reduced.

Gum health

Most oral care products contain herbal components. Such rinses strengthen the gums, heal the mucous membrane, preventing the spread of unwanted infections.

Preventing diabetes

A laboratory study published in the British Journal of Nutrition published experimental data on sage's ability to lower blood glucose levels, suggesting it could be used to prevent type 2 diabetes. However, these experiments were carried out on animals, and these applications in humans have yet to be studied.

Antioxidant effects

Many chronic and degenerative diseases are caused by products of cellular metabolism, which, by attacking healthy cells, can lead to their mutation, causing malignant neoplasms. The plant's constituents, rosmarinic acid, apigenin, and luteolin, are capable of neutralizing free radicals and preventing oxidative processes that affect our heart, muscles and brain.

Strengthening bone tissue

The grass is rich in vitamin K, which is so necessary for the formation and maintenance of the strength of our bones. People suffering from early signs of osteoporosis, consuming sage in their diet, significantly increases the level of vitamin K in the body, thereby preserving the integrity of the body's bones.

Folk recipes

The scope of use of sage in folk medicine is truly limitless. It is used to treat ENT pathologies (sore throat, laryngitis, etc.), inflammatory and purulent skin lesions, pulmonary tuberculosis, polyarthritis, edema, radiculitis, atherosclerosis, gynecological diseases, gastrointestinal tract pathologies, liver, infertility and much more. Here are the most effective recipes with the plant.

For bags under the eyes

To visibly remove bags under your eyes, you can try the following recipe. You need to take one teaspoon of the herb and pour half a glass of boiling water, leave for about half an hour and strain. Heat half of the infusion and cool half. Dip two tampons into the hot broth and two into the cold one. Alternately apply tampons to the area of ​​swelling for a couple of minutes.

Sage tea

• It has a pronounced anti-sweat effect that lasts for at least 2 hours. Recommended both for excessive sweating and for diseases accompanied by rapid sweating, for example, tuberculosis.
• Helps speedy recovery from bronchitis, bronchial asthma, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and gall bladder.
• Stops lactation if necessary.
• Strengthens hair follicles, stops premature baldness.

1 tbsp. dried raw materials or 1 bag of pharmaceutical tea, pour 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 15 minutes and drink a third of a glass three times a day before meals. The optimal duration of treatment is 2-3 weeks.

Sage tea

For external use:

• Promotes rapid healing of non-healing wounds (washing wounds, applying lotions).
• Eliminates thrush in children (mouth rinse).
• Sage helps with toothache, as well as in the treatment of gumboil and bleeding gums (rinsing).
• Reduces the severity of inflammatory changes in sore throat (irrigation and gargling).
• Improves hair condition, strengthens roots (rinse after washing with a light scalp massage).

For internal use:

• Normalizes the acidity of gastric juice in gastritis with low acidity.
• Helps with colitis, enterocolitis.
• Helps with coughs - sage not only facilitates mucus discharge, but also has an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effect.

1 tbsp. dry leaves pour a glass of boiling water and leave for 1 hour, filter. Take half a glass orally three times a day before meals. To treat cough, it is recommended to mix the infusion with warm milk in a 1:1 ratio.

Decoction with sage

• Accelerates recovery from bronchopulmonary pathology;
• Helps cure exacerbations of gastrointestinal and liver diseases.
• Normalizes blood sugar.
• Reduces pain from radiculitis.

One tbsp. dry raw materials are poured with a glass of boiling water and boiled over very low heat for 10 minutes, after removing from the heat, leave for another half hour. Take 1 tbsp. three times a day.

Alcohol tincture of sage

• Helps in the treatment of atherosclerosis.
• Improves brain activity, especially in elderly patients.

3 tbsp. dry herbs are infused for 1 month in half a liter of alcohol in a sunny place, tightly closed with a lid. Take 1 tbsp. before meals, with water.

Sage wine

Recommended for older people for general strengthening, improving the functioning of blood vessels and the brain. For 1 liter of table grapes, take 80 grams of dry plant material. The mixture is infused for 8 days and taken 20 ml per day after meals.

Inhalations with sage

• Helps eliminate inflammatory processes in the throat and bronchi.
• Helps cure infectious rhinitis.
  

A handful of dry herbs is poured with 2 glasses of water and boiled over low heat for about 5 minutes. The resulting broth is allowed to cool slightly, then inhaled over steam, covered with a towel, for about 5-7 minutes.

Recipes for treating Salvia officinalis colds

Bronchitis, pneumonia in children and adults

If you suspect bronchitis or pneumonia, both in adults and children, you can use the following decoction. Take two tablespoons of leaves and pour a glass of milk. After this, place the resulting mixture on the fire, cover with a lid, and bring to a boil. After this, strain and put on fire again. Drink milk with herbs hot before bed.

Atrophic rhinitis

Take three tablespoons of dry crushed leaves and place them in half a liter of boiling water. The resulting decoction should be left for about two hours, then strained. Rinse your nose with the solution at least once a day.

Sage for toothache

To treat toothache, you can prepare a simple infusion. Pour one teaspoon of raw material into a glass of boiling water and leave for forty minutes, then strain. Rinse your mouth with infusion, especially in the area of ​​greatest pain.

Flux

Mix fifty grams of sage and orris root, which is popularly called iris or cockerels. Pour one tablespoon of the mixture into an enamel bowl and pour a glass of cold water. Place the future broth on the fire and cover with a lid. Simmer over low heat for fifteen minutes, and after removing from heat, let the broth brew for the same amount of time. Rinse your mouth with the strained broth several times a day.

Baths made from a decoction of herbs and onion peels (brew as desired) are also perfect for treating flux. You need to keep the warm mixture in your mouth until it cools and take a new portion. Continue every 20 minutes for 2-3 hours. You can also rinse your mouth with this decoction three or four times a day.

Insomnia

To treat insomnia, take a mixture of dried sage leaves, valerian root, motherwort, St. John's wort and mint. Place five teaspoons of the herbal mixture in half a liter of boiling water and leave for an hour. After this, strain the resulting broth and drink 2-3 tablespoons with honey at night.

Vesiculitis

To treat vesiculitis you need to make the following decoction. Take two parts of sage leaves, three parts of poplar buds and five parts of burdock roots. Pour one teaspoon of herbs into a thermos and pour liters of boiling water over the floor. Infuse the decoction for at least ten hours, and then take a quarter glass three times a day. You can also use the same decoction for microenemas. They need to be placed at least fifteen times every other day, after which the vesiculitis will go away.

Chronic kidney inflammation

A herbal bath will help relieve chronic inflammatory processes in the kidneys. To prepare it, you can take three tablespoons of a collection of herbs: sage, chamomile and horsetail. Place all the herbs in a liter of boiling water and leave, and then pour the infusion into the bath. The procedure is carried out for fifteen minutes.

Haemorrhoids

To treat hemorrhoids, you can try making a decoction of two teaspoons of leaves poured into two glasses of boiling water. Leave in a water bath for two hours and then cool. The result will be no more than forty milliliters of broth. At night, put a microenema in the rectum; if you have the urge, endure it as long as possible.

Glossalgia

Prepare a decoction of one tablespoon of sage leaves and one tablespoon of celandine. Pour a glass of water with the calculation that for one tablespoon of each herb there is one glass of boiling water. Alternately rinse your mouth five or six times a day.

Osteochondrosis

You need to take two hundred grams of leaves and pour five liters of boiling water. Leave for about two hours and strain, then pour into a bath with a water temperature of at least 360 degrees. Lie in the bathroom for no more than thirty minutes, but not less than fifteen. Take baths every day for a week, and then take a short five-day break and repeat the course again.

Collection for relieving pain in pancreatitis

You need to take the following herbs: three parts each of sage, exclusively stems and leaves, calendula flowers, burdock root and two parts each of clover flowers, agrimony grass and dandelion root. Two tbsp. Pour half a liter of boiling water over spoons of the mixture and leave in a thermos for about five hours, without closing the lid for ten minutes to allow steam to escape. After this, cool, strain and drink half a glass four times a day. The last, fourth time, drink exclusively before bedtime.

Sweaty feet

Sweaty feet is a rather unpleasant problem, which you can try to solve with this recipe. You need to take twenty-five grams of sage and nettle. Pour three liters of boiling water over all this and leave to brew for two hours. Immerse your feet in the infusion for fifteen minutes and then leave them to dry. It is better to do baths in the evening and in the morning, if possible.

Enuresis

Mix sage herb, lingonberry leaf and St. John's wort in equal quantities. Pour one teaspoon of the mixture into half a liter of boiling water, wrap it in a warm cloth and leave to steep for an hour. Afterwards, strain the broth. How to take: eat 2-3 tbsp. spoons of fresh lingonberries and wash down with 50 ml of decoction. Do this procedure three times a day before meals.

Salvia oil: treatment of foot fungus

In order to get rid of foot fungus, you can try the following: take seven tablespoons of crushed sage leaves and pour three liters of hot water. Dip your feet in the infusion so that the water reaches the bottom of your ankle. Keep your feet for about ten minutes. After this, you need to wipe them dry and lubricate your feet with the oil of the same plant.

To prepare it, you need to take one part of chopped sage herb and add ten parts of unrefined vegetable oil. Boil the resulting mixture in a water bath for half an hour, then wrap it up and leave for six hours. Then strain the oil, it is ready for use.

Sage oil is used to treat wounds, non-healing ulcers, and fungal skin infections.

Ointment for sore joints

Take five tablespoons of dry herb and grind it in a mortar to a powder. After this, add five tablespoons of lard and stir. Place the resulting mixture in a water bath and leave on low heat until liquid. Strain the liquid mass through a fine sieve so that no particles remain that could in any way injure the skin. Transfer the ointment into a dark glass container and place it in the refrigerator.

For pain in the lower back or joints, one teaspoon of ointment is heated and thoroughly rubbed into the sore spot, after which it is insulated. You can make suppositories from the ointment and treat hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Sage herb for infertility

Entire books by traditional healers are devoted to treating infertility with the help of plants, which has a completely scientific explanation. The fact is that sage phytohormones are similar in structure to estrogens, female sex hormones, and therefore act in the body in a similar way. But before treatment, you should consult with a gynecologist about the possibility and advisability of herbal medicine.

Treatment regimen

Herbal medicine is prescribed for 10 days in the first phase of the menstrual cycle on the first day after the end of the next menstruation, i.e. approximately from the 5th to the 15th day of the cycle. If menstruation is absent for a long period of time, then treatment can be started on any day - in this case, the first day of treatment will be considered the 5th day of the cycle.

Preparation

One tbsp. dry leaves of the plant or a pharmaceutical tea bag are brewed with a glass of boiling water, left for 15 minutes, filtered. This is a daily portion, which is divided into three doses during the day and drunk 20 minutes before meals. A fresh infusion is prepared every day.

Efficiency

After 1-3 cycles (1-3 course doses, respectively), you should go for an ultrasound and assess the condition of the ovaries, endometrium and other signs of readiness for pregnancy. You should not take sage for more than 3 months, but if necessary, re-treatment is carried out with a break of 1 month.

Sage in gynecology

Used to eliminate menopausal symptoms, it is especially effective when started at the earliest manifestations of menopause, even before the cessation of menstruation.

The plant is also effective in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome, accompanied by emotional instability, abdominal pain, etc.

It has beneficial properties for women who need to stop lactation, for which it is recommended to take tea or sage infusion 100 ml twice a day for 5-7 days, but usually the milk disappears already on the 3-4th day of intake.

At the same time, it is recommended to apply compresses to the mammary glands with sage oil (2-3 drops per 25 ml of vegetable oil) to prevent milk stagnation. Gauze is soaked in the resulting mixture of oils and applied to the chest for 1 hour, covered with cellophane. Once a day is enough.

For conception

Sage was popularly considered a feminine herb, and for good reason! Herbalists have long noticed that sage decoction helps to conceive a child in case of infertility, a woman’s inability to become pregnant and bear a child. There are three most effective recipes for drugs that are used to treat female infertility.

Sage infusion for infertility and ovarian dysfunction

You need to take one tablespoon of dry leaves and pour one glass of boiling water, leaving to infuse for about fifteen minutes. Strain the resulting infusion and drink one third of a glass three times a day, half an hour before meals. The course of treatment is carried out for eleven days immediately after the end of menstruation. There are no restrictions on the number of courses, but after every three you need to take a break for a couple of months.

The same infusion helps with excessive night sweats (drink before bed), nervous tension, and irritability. It is useful to drink it before an important meeting or exams, since sage activates the brain and promotes better memorization of information.

How to take sage and linden for conception: two plants with phytohormones

Linden contains the female hormone estrogen in its natural form, so when combined with sage, this collection is doubly effective. How to take linden with sage for successful conception: add tbsp to a glass of boiling water. spoon of each herb (dry) and leave until warm. Reception and duration of the course are the same as in the first recipe.

How to take boron uterus with sage to conceive a child during infertility

For successful conception, in addition to sage, you can take boron uterus - a herb that also contains phytohormones and successfully treats infertility. So, prepare the decoction: first boil the water and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then pour 1 tbsp of this water into a glass. spoon of dry grass of the boron uterus and leave for 15 minutes. Place the contents in a water bath and simmer for 20 minutes. You need to take 1 tbsp. spoon four times a day between taking sage infusion (infusion recipe above).

Salvia to stop lactation

The active substances contained in the plant help reduce the secretion of breast milk and inhibit its production. The recipe has been used for a long time and is widely used by nursing mothers who want to stop breastfeeding. How to drink sage to stop lactation:

Brew a tablespoon of dry herb with boiling water, cover with a saucer and leave until warm. Drink half a glass at a time. In total, you can drink no more than two glasses of decoction per day.

When taking sage, lactation stops slowly. First, the milk decreases, and the painful sensations that could appear from improper weaning of the child from the breast gradually disappear. Seals also dissolve. During this period, it is important to limit the consumption of liquids, especially those that promote lactation (hot tea, milk, fruit drinks). You can take sage decoction for up to 14 days without interruption.

Breast cancer

For breast cancer, you need to drink a decoction of herbs according to the following recipe. Take three or four teaspoons of crushed leaves of the plant and add to one liter of water, boiling the decoction for exactly three minutes. Strain, discard the cake, and add a teaspoon of St. John's wort leaves, peppermint and lemon balm to the hot broth. Leave for ten minutes and drink one glass three times a day half an hour before meals. Drink the infusion daily until recovery.

Salvia for menopause and hot flashes: how to brew and take

The problem of menopause can be solved by preparing the following decoction. Take one heaped tablespoon of dry chopped herbs and pour two glasses of boiling water over it, putting it on the fire for a few minutes. For menopause and hot flashes, sage decoction should be taken like ordinary tea: with meals three times a day. The course of treatment lasts from twelve to fifteen days, after which you need to take a break for a week or two. If necessary, continue treatment.

Douching

For inflammatory gynecological diseases, douching with sage decoction is used once or twice a day for a prescribed period - from one week to three. Such douching is effective for thrush, cervicitis, endocervicitis, cervical erosion (in combination with decoctions of anti-inflammatory herbs in turn), for leucorrhoea and senile itching.

Pour 3 tbsp into a liter of boiling water. spoons of dry herbs, simmer over low heat for 10 minutes and leave to room temperature. Douche morning and evening. For thrush, leucorrhoea and itching, one to two weeks is enough; for cervicitis and erosion, treatment should be continued for up to a month.

Sage - Contraindications

• polycystic disease;
• jades;
• endometriosis;
• uterine fibroids;
• hypothyroidism;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• disease of the nervous system.

• The ancient luminaries of medicine considered the plant to be salvation from all diseases and even from material troubles;
• During the plague, sage preparations helped to recover and recover;
• Research is underway to develop sage-based drugs to treat Alzheimer's disease;
• Sage extract is used in perfumery.

Preface

There are a lot of essential oils, phytoncides and mineral salts - sage carries such a “bouquet” of useful qualities. While famous for its medicinal properties, sage also has contraindications. But first things first.

Sage and its medicinal properties are a topic that has been discussed more than once by doctors and considered by herbalists at scientific symposiums. This plant has many names - sage, salvia, and others. But in reality, salvia officinalis (one of 900 species!), as well as to a lesser extent the subspecies known as clary, Spanish and Ethiopian, have beneficial properties.

Differing in appearance from other plants of its family and possessing medicinal qualities, this herb is successfully used in our folk medicine. It is quite often confused with meadow sage (field), which grows “wildly” in the fields and is better known as “cornflower” - the latter has much weaker medicinal properties.

But even such “useless” varieties can be used for good - designers like to combine them for decorative purposes with different types of plants to create flower beds, landscape decorations and original compositions. This grass does not grow wild in our area.

This useful plant blooms in June-July; its spike-shaped inflorescences are purple. Herbalists collect it during the budding period. Leaves and stem tips are used, which need to be dried in the shade. The peculiarity of the flowering of this plant allows, after collecting the first flowers, to wait for the next ones and make preparations. Sage can be classified as. Its leaves have a very strong smell and a slightly bitter-spicy taste. But it is in them that you can find a large amount of useful substances, vitamins and organic acids.

It has been proven that sage fights inflammation, disinfects, and has analgesic, estrogenic, expectorant, diuretic and antiputrefactive effects on the human body.

Raw materials are successfully used in both folk and traditional medicine. In addition, cosmetologists also adopted it to create creams and ointments for the face and hair shampoos. By the way, in some countries the leaves of this plant are also added to food (as an additive to meat and rice, as a seasoning for cold appetizers, and even in pies). It has been proven that an infusion of this herb has a good effect on the functioning of the digestive tract, works with the function of the sweat and mammary glands, and is also used in the treatment of a number of other diseases in humans. This miracle herb has been found to improve memory.

Also, sage in folk medicine is part of various herbal preparations (consist of). It is used to treat various diseases of the digestive tract (stomach ulcers, colitis, gastritis, diarrhea), as well as problems with the liver, kidneys, stomatitis and even tuberculosis. Antimicrobial drugs are also made directly from the leaves. Due to its disinfectant properties, decoctions can also be used in the form of baths (helps with microbial eczema), as a decoction in the form of rinses (for sore throat, stomatitis, periodontal disease).

Sage and its medicinal properties are also used successfully in gynecology. Due to its estrogenic effect, this particular plant is successfully used for female infertility. It also helps stop lactation and is used as a medicine by women during the difficult period of weaning their children. This herb also inhibits sweating, in addition, it has a beneficial effect during menopause, and is used in gynecology in the treatment of thrush and vaginitis (douching is performed).

But be careful. Despite the fact that the plant has been successfully used for infertility for many years, it is strictly prohibited to take it during pregnancy (it reduces progesterone)! This plant is also not recommended for all nursing mothers, as a sharp decrease in the amount of milk is possible. It is also contraindicated if menstruation is delayed. With such questions, it is better to immediately contact a doctor, rather than relying on the herb itself to solve all your problems.

Use in folk medicine - experience and results

Salvia officinalis has found application not only in the form of decoctions, infusions, but even special wine. But never try to use any herbs without consulting a qualified specialist. Below we will give examples of how this plant is used in folk medicine.

• Wine (prevention of various diseases): you need to take the leaves of this plant: 80 grams and 1 liter of grape wine, mix and leave in a dark place for 8 days. It is recommended to take only 20-30 ml of this tincture after meals;
• Inhalations (for inflammation of the respiratory tract): a handful of herb should be poured into a kettle for inhalation or boiled in a container over low heat. It is recommended to breathe these essential vapors while covering yourself with a towel;
• Concentrated decoction (as a compress for purulent wounds and skin inflammation): 4 tablespoons of the herb are poured into 0.5 liters of boiling water and infused for about 30 minutes. Then used as a compress. An ointment is even prepared from sage to treat neurodermatitis, psoriasis and eczema.

Most of us, one way or another, have come across sage in culinary recipes or in the treatment of various ailments with folk remedies, but not everyone has an idea of ​​the full range of properties of the plant. In this article we will look at the medicinal properties of sage and contraindications to its use, the differences between different varieties of the plant and the features of its use depending on the disease.

Sage varieties

Sage is a herbaceous perennial plant of the Lamiaceae family with pubescent tetrahedral stems that become woody closer to the roots and form a subshrub, ovate petiolate or sessile leaves and a densely branched root system. Flowers of wild plant species grow in a spikelet at the top of the shoot and are lilac-blue, blue or light lilac in color. You can see what sage looks like in the photo.

The plant's homeland is the Mediterranean countries (Serbia, Albania, Italy, etc.), however, its relative unpretentiousness allows the subshrub to be cultivated in a wide variety of climatic latitudes, and many of its varieties have long been growing wild everywhere. Based on this, the question “where does sage grow” can be answered - everywhere except Australia and the Arctic latitudes.

Today, there are about 900 different species and varieties of sage.. They differ not only in some morphological features (stem height, shade, size and integrity of leaf edges, color of spikelets), but also in composition and properties, which is why they can belong to different areas of use.

Let's look at the most common plant varieties.

Salvia officinalis

In the wild it grows up to 70 cm in height, has narrow, highly pubescent oblong leaves with a silvery tint. The flowers are purple with a bluish tint, the plant exudes a noticeable spicy aroma. This species loves dry and warm climates, does not tolerate frosts and strong moisture, and therefore requires good insulation before wintering. It is prepared for use in the second year after planting.

In turn, based on this species, many different varieties with modified characteristics have been bred. The most popular are:

• Aibolit. It is distinguished by its high growth - up to 120 cm, the leaves are pubescent, wrinkled, dark green in color. Used for medicinal purposes and as a culinary seasoning;
• Breeze. It grows up to 60 cm in height, the leaves have jagged edges, and the variety is frost-resistant. Harvested in the first year of life (stems and leaves), used fresh and dry. Popular in cooking for preparing first and second courses.

Muscat

Meadow (field) sage

Reaches 80 cm in height, has large leaves, wide at the bottom and tapering towards the top, the color of the spikelets is bright purple. Unlike the medicinal type, it has no noticeable odor and is inferior to it in medicinal properties. used in cooking and landscaping.

Elegant

It grows up to 1 meter and has red flowers. The leaves of the plant have a fruity smell, which is why they are often used in cooking to prepare fruit salads and various desserts.

Oak sage

It has no medicinal value, but is an excellent honey plant, along with species such as Ethiopian and steppe. It has many varieties, differing in growth and honey properties.

White

It is distinguished by the white color of its inflorescences and has large leaves with finely toothed edges. In Mexico, this type of sage was endowed with magical properties and used in shamanic rituals as part of smoking mixtures. However, in fact, the so-called mystical properties of the plant are associated with the presence of substances with a narcotic effect - salvinorins.

In small quantities, white sage is useful in the treatment of rheumatism, kidney disease, headaches and anemia, but is controlled by Russian law as a narcotic plant.

Thanks to the optimal combination of beneficial substances and essential oils, the most popular for use in various fields is medicinal sage, which will be discussed below.

Sage as a seasoning

The aromatic smell and spicy, bitter-astringent taste of sage have long been valued by chefs around the world and are used in many recipes. Sage adds flavor to dishes and adds a spicy note to the taste.

As a rule, the plant is used in cooking in the following forms:

• powder from dried sage leaves - added to various hearty dishes and sauces;
• fresh young leaves and unblown tops of shoots - to obtain a subtle aroma of fish and vegetable dishes;
• fried fresh leaves - added to various sandwiches and hamburgers.

Sage can be used as a standalone herb (for example, in hearty pies, cheese snacks) or as one of the components in a mixture of herbs. The dry spice goes well with oregano, marjoram, juniper, rosemary, thyme and oregano, as well as bay leaves, garlic and onions.

The only group of foods that sage cannot be combined with are mushrooms, since the seasoning completely ruins their taste. Otherwise, the range of products that spice can improve is very wide:

• Meat dishes (especially beef and veal) and poultry, including minced meat;
• Fish dishes (for fatty or dietary varieties without a pronounced taste);
• Hearty, vegetable and bean soups;
• Cheeses (mixed with a small amount of sage powder) - curd, processed and hard;
• Egg dishes;
• Vegetable dishes;
• Baked goods – various types of bread (flatbread, baguettes, preparations for burgers and pizza), biscuits, filled pies (cabbage, meat, rice and egg);
• By-products;
• Marinades - sage is added to liquids for pickling or pickling vegetables, fish, lard, some fruits and berries;
• Desserts – milk and fruit;
• Drinks – milk and fermented milk, tea, beer, wine, sweet alcoholic drinks.

Important! In order to overpower the taste of the dish and not cause bitterness, it is necessary to clearly measure the amount of spice added. For the same purpose, sage should be added to the dish at the very end of cooking, unless otherwise indicated in the recipe.

Currently, the seasoning in question is easy to purchase in many grocery stores, but it is also not difficult to prepare it yourself . To do this, sage leaves collected during flowering are thoroughly washed with cold water and dried in a dark, ventilated room, then crushed to powder and stored in a cool place in an airtight container.

However, how can you replace sage in cooking if for some reason it is not available? A suitable replacement is one of the herbs with which the spice is combined:

• thyme;
• marjoram;
• savory;
• rosemary.

These seasonings can be used in the same quantities as sage. They will give the dish a similar aroma and taste.

Medicinal properties of the plant

People have known about the benefits of the plant for a very long time. This is evidenced by the name of sage in Latin - salvia, the root of which is the word “salvere”, meaning “to be healthy” and evidence of medicine from the civilizations of Ancient Egypt, Greece, China and India that has survived to this day.

Currently, the benefits of the plant have been scientifically proven. In medicine, the green parts of sage are used - leaves collected during flowering, as well as the tops of flowers that have not had time to bloom. It is in these parts of the plant that the optimal combination of nutrients is observed.

Chemical composition of sage:

• tannins;
• alkaloids;
• phytoncides;
• essential oils (camphor, thujone, borneol, pinene and cineole);
• vitamins (E, A, PP, K);
• flavonoids (luteolin, salvitin, hispidulin, nepetin, cinaroside, etc.);
• resins;
• bitterness;
• organic acids (triterpene acids - oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, diterpene acids - salvin and phenol carbonic acids - caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, etc.);
• minerals (zinc, selenium, manganese, iron, copper, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, sodium, magnesium).

The composition of the plant determines its benefits and harm - excess amounts of the herb can cause negative reactions in the body due to the increased intake of bitterness, alkaloids and other potent substances. However, when used correctly, sage helps solve many health problems.

The plant has the following beneficial properties:

• astringent;
• wound healing;
• expectorant;
• disinfectant;
• antispasmodic;
• antiseptic and anti-inflammatory;
• diuretic;
• hemostatic;
• bile and diuretic;
• restorative;
• neurostimulant;
• calming.

Sage herb is used to treat the following conditions:

• fungal, viral or bacterial infections of the mucous membranes (stomatitis, gingivitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, conjunctivitis, etc.);
• inflammation of the respiratory tract due to allergies, colds or other infections (bronchitis, pleurisy, tuberculosis, bronchial asthma, etc.);
• nervous system disorders (depression, insomnia, neuroses, paralysis);
• diseases of the digestive system (gastritis, diabetes, diarrhea, colitis, stomach and intestinal ulcers, inflammation of the gallbladder);
• toothache;
• high blood pressure (the exception is clary sage, which increases blood pressure);
• ailments of the cardiovascular system (atherosclerosis) – the plant helps cleanse blood vessels, fights anemia, and also eliminates heart pain;
• decreased concentration and memory;
• female gynecological problems - menstrual irregularities, infertility, menopause;
• excess weight – sage herb stimulates metabolic reactions in the body, regulates appetite and digestion, which helps to lose weight with a combination of reasonable physical activity and proper diet;
• inflammation of muscles and joints (sciatica, polyarthritis);
• pathologies of the urinary tract not in the acute stage (pyelonephritis, urolithiasis);
• haemorrhoids;
• prostate diseases;
• bruises and suppuration.

Contraindications to the use of sage

Sage is not always good for the body. In some cases, the use of grass can cause serious harm to health.

The plant is prohibited for use under the following conditions:

• period of pregnancy and lactation;
• low blood pressure (exception: clary sage);
• allergy to sage;
• gynecological problems associated with hormonal imbalances (polycystic ovary syndrome, amenorrhea, endometriosis, fibroids, increased estrogen levels and lack of progesterone, previous operations to treat uterine or breast cancer);
• constipation;
• children under 2 years of age;
• acute stage of pyelonephritis and nephritis;
• hypothyroidism

Contraindications should also be approached wisely. So, despite the possible harm, it is therefore possible to draw a conclusion about the possibility or impossibility of its use only after consulting a doctor.

• digestive disorders (heartburn, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea);
• allergic reactions (urticaria accompanied by itching);
• headaches, dizziness, weakness, rapid pulse, convulsions, tinnitus.

Medicinal properties and contraindications for men

Sage has particular benefits for the male body. The herb has a beneficial effect on the reproductive system:

• fights stagnation in the urinary tract;
• stimulates the production of testosterone, which affects sperm production;
• increases the effectiveness of medications for conception;
• improves blood flow in the genitals;
• provides prevention of inflammatory diseases of the reproductive system;
• supports the functioning of the prostate gland;
• increases potency and libido.

Thus, salvia for men acts as an aphrodisiac and an adjuvant in the treatment of infertility.

There are many ways to use sage to increase potency in men. One of the most effective and affordable is to take a decoction of dry herbs from the plant. To prepare it, 2 tbsp. spoons of salvia are poured into a glass of boiling water, then, stirring, simmer for 15 minutes over low heat. Next, the mixture is cooled and filtered, drunk three times a day before meals, a quarter glass for a month.

In addition to general contraindications, sage is prohibited for use in men with cancer of the reproductive system . The herb is used with caution for prostatitis. In any case, before using the product, you must obtain a doctor's approval.

Sage for children

As mentioned above, sage is very effective in treating a variety of inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract. This is of great importance for children, who are especially susceptible to these pathologies. But at what age is it acceptable to take this herb?

Doctors are unanimous in their opinion - up to 2 years of age, salvia cannot be consumed internally, only external use of infusion and decoction is permissible according to indications - for children's baths (including infant baths) or lotions on festering wounds, but even after reaching a permissible age, sage is used with caution, according to the pediatrician's indications.

When treating colds in children, the herb is used in the following forms:

• infusion for steam inhalation;
• infusion for gargling;
• infusion or decoction for oral use;
• pharmacological tablets based on sage for resorption.

Children are allowed sage for gargling when they are old enough to do it themselves without accidentally swallowing the liquid. In any case, up to 12 years, a weak infusion of sage with the addition of sea salt is used. To prepare it, 1 dessert spoon of herb is steamed with a glass of boiling water and 5 g of salt is added. The mixture is covered and allowed to cool, then filtered and used up to 5 times a day.

For internal use, a weak decoction of salvia is also used, which is often combined with boiled warm milk and honey.

Sage for throat

Relieving sore throat is one of the most sought after medicinal properties of sage.

The herb is prescribed for chronic and acute forms of pharyngitis, laryngitis and tracheitis, for sore throat and for burns of the larynx. In the case of purulent tonsillitis, sage cleanses the tonsils and larynx from plaque, helping to remove plugs on the tonsil ducts . Sage has an anti-inflammatory effect on the affected mucous membrane, relieves pain and destroys bacteria.

When treating the throat, the plant is used as part of lozenges, added to an infusion for steam inhalation (as an herb or) or simply chewed dry leaves, but the most common and popular method is to use it as a gargle.

Moreover, this method is one of the safest and allows you to give a positive answer to the questions of whether it is possible to gargle with sage during pregnancy and hormonal imbalances. The only contraindication against rinsing is individual intolerance to the herb.

Depending on the stage of infection, rinsing is carried out for 3 to 7 days. Even with severe foci of sore throat, most patients note an improvement in their condition on the second day of the procedure.

How to brew sage for gargling

To gargle, brew sage as follows: take 1 tbsp. spoon of raw materials and pour 0.2 liters of boiling water, then cover and let it brew for half an hour. Next, the mixture is filtered and used for its intended purpose. To preserve the benefits, it is advisable to prepare a fresh infusion every day.

It is also permissible to prepare salvia infusions in combination with other herbs.. So, when treating pharyngitis, mix 1 tbsp. spoon of sage and St. John's wort, after which it is steamed in the same way as the main recipe.

Another popular recipe is to combine equal parts chamomile and sage. This infusion for gargling effectively soothes the affected mucous membranes, speeding up recovery.

Benefit for other pathologies

Sage for colds

Sage for colds not only helps relieve a sore throat and prevent complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia, but also has a general strengthening effect, increasing immunity and helping to fight viral or bacterial pathogens.

The herb is taken symptomatically (for rinsing, inhalation), and also as part of a restorative tea.

Sage with honey

Salvia goes well with honey, which has anti-inflammatory and softening properties. Honey makes a great addition to sage tea or a gargling decoction, and can also be a component of such a useful remedy as cough syrup.

To prepare the syrup, prepare a decoction of sage - pour 1 teaspoon into 0.5 liters of water and boil for another half hour over low heat. Next, the broth is allowed to cool and filtered into a measuring cup. Add the same amount of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon of liquid honey to the mixture. Next, the mass is thoroughly mixed, poured into sealed bottles and stored in the refrigerator.

Syrup take 1 tsp. adults and 0.5 teaspoon for children 3 times a day.

Sage with milk for bronchitis

As mentioned above, and other inflammatory diseases of the lower respiratory tract. The herb promotes the removal of sputum, destroys pathogenic microflora, and has an anti-inflammatory effect on the respiratory tract.

To make the effect of the plant even milder, sage with milk is often used as a folk remedy for bronchitis. To prepare it, 2 tsp. raw materials are poured into a glass of warm fat milk and brought to a boil over low heat. Next, turn off the fire, cool and filter. The strained liquid is boiled again and then used.

The product is drunk hot before bed; the taste can be improved with honey. For a better effect, before taking the medicine, you need to wrap yourself warmly in order to sweat well.

Sage for toothache

Salvia has a healing effect for a wide range of oral diseases. Sage is useful for gums in pathologies such as stomatitis, periodontitis, gingivitis or periodontitis, eliminates ulcers on the oral mucosa, and also relieves or softens toothache during dental diseases or during the recovery period after dental treatment.

An infusion for rinsing the mouth or lubricating the gums, prepared similarly to an infusion for the throat, is used as a medicine for these problems.

Infusions based on simple or multicomponent mixtures of herbs are common. Thus, an infusion of sage and chamomile (1 tablespoon each) is popular - it relieves pain and has a mild anti-inflammatory effect, or a mixture of 3 tsp. sage, 2 tsp chamomile, 3 tsp yarrow and 2 tsp St. John's wort.

Sage for type 2 diabetes

Scientists have proven the antidiabetic effect of sage, so the plant is used in the treatment of diabetes. The herb is often prescribed as part of special dietary preparations, but only the attending physician can prescribe a specific treatment regimen after taking into account all associated factors.

Sage for gastritis

For the stomach, sage is especially valuable in the treatment of gastritis with high acidity. The following recipe is popular among people: pour 2 teaspoons of boiling water in the amount of half a liter, leave for half an hour and filter. Take 1 tablespoon every 2 hours.

Sage herb for worms

Treatment is carried out in a course of 4 times every 10 days and is very effective against pork and bovine tapeworms. It should be remembered that before treatment the patient must follow a diet with light vegetable or cereal soups.

In addition to the recipes described above, in folk medicine there are effective methods of treatment using salvia and other pathologies.

Kidneys

So, sage is used for the kidneys if the inflammation has not reached the acute stage. The herb has an anti-inflammatory and diuretic effect, removes pathogens.

The following infusion is popular: 1 tablespoon of dry salvia is poured into 0.2 liters of boiling water and left for 1 hour. Next, the mixture is filtered and consumed 0.5 cups before meals three times a day.

Vessels

Sage is also known for its benefits for blood vessels. To reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis, prepare the following tincture: 40 g of dry herb, crushed to a powder, place in a glass jar, add 0.8 liters of vodka and 0.4 liters of boiled warm water, close and leave in a light (but not sunny) place. place for 40 days. During infusion, the jar needs to be shaken from time to time.

It is not necessary to strain the tincture before use - the powder will remain at the bottom of the jar. The resulting alcohol extract of sage is drunk 1 tbsp. spoon diluted with water on an empty stomach every morning. Duration of use - until the jar is empty, frequency of repetition - 1 jar every six months.

External use

Sage is also popular for external use, especially for washing and lotions on purulent wounds. But is it possible to wash your eyes with sage? People's experience allows us to answer this question in the affirmative.

The eyes are washed for conjunctivitis, blepharitis and other inflammations of the eyelids or lacrimal sac, accompanied by the release of pus.

For eye inflammation not associated with an infectious pathogen, prepare a simple infusion of 2 tbsp. spoons of sage with the addition of 1 tbsp after filtering. spoons of honey and make lotions with it several times a day.

For infectious inflammation, mix sage and fragrant dill seeds in equal quantities. 2 tbsp. spoons of the collection are poured with a glass of boiling water and left for 2 hours. The eyes are washed with filtered liquid up to 6 times a day.

For complicated forms of conjunctivitis, brew 3 tbsp in the same way. spoons of sage and chamomile, combined in equal parts. The strained liquid is used to wash the eyes in the morning and evening for several days.

Sage: instructions for use

As follows from the above information, the use of sage in folk medicine is very versatile and has many recipes for various ailments. At the same time, the technology for preparing drugs and the patterns of their use are very different.

How to drink sage to generally strengthen the body? To increase immunity and strengthen the digestive and genitourinary systems, the herb is consumed in small concentrations as tea.

How to brew sage for tea? Place 1 teaspoon of herb in a teapot or strainer and pour 0.2 liters of boiling water over it for 3-5 minutes. If desired, add sugar, lemon, cinnamon, chamomile or other seasonings to the tea.

For best results, sage tea should be taken after meals. It is better to divide the intake into 2-3 times half a glass.

Like most other salvia products, sage tea is not recommended for use for longer than 3 months. After this period, you should take a break of at least 21 days to avoid an excess of resins and bitterness in the body.

Thus, sage can be called a very multifaceted plant in terms of the range of its beneficial properties and household use. The substances contained in the plant are highly biologically active in the treatment of many ailments, however, they can cause harm if used incorrectly. Use sage correctly and be healthy!

All materials on the website are presented for informational purposes only. Before using any product, consultation with a doctor is MANDATORY!