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Sage is a silvery-green plant with leaves that offer a memorable
fragrant. The most common form of sage first came from the area
around the Mediterranean but now grows in regions of North America
as well. The leaves of the sage herb serve both medicinal and
culinary purposes.
For thousands of years sage has been used
for a variety of culinary and medicinal purposes. It has been used
in connection with sprains, swelling, ulcers, and bleeding. As a
tea, sage has been administered for sore throats and coughs.
Herbalists have also used this herb for rheumatism, menstrual
bleeding, strengthening the nervous system, improving memory, and
sharpening the senses.
How does sage
work?
Sage oil contains the chemical substances
alpha- and beta-thujone, camphor, and cineole as well as other
constituents including rosmarinic acid, tannins, and flavonoids.
Even today, in many European countries sage is used medicinally as a
gargle for sore throat and inflammation of the mouth and gums.
Clinical studies also indicate that the substance found in sage oil
may also offer antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects,
explaining much of its medicinal activity.
In Germany, sage
herb is commonly used for upset stomach and excessive sweating. In
England, sage is used for some symptoms of
menopause.
Sage Dosage and
Administration
For a variety of conditions including
mouth inflammation, gingivitis and sore throats, add 3 grams of sage
leaf to 150 ml of boiling water, strain after 10 minutes and then
let cool. The resulting tea can then be used as a mouthwash or
gargle a few times a day. As an internal supplement 5 ml of fluid
extract can be diluted in a glass of water and taken three times a
day.
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