Sage, The Herb of Immortality
If I were to try to give you a brief summary of sage, it would be nearly impossible. Around the 10th century, Arab physicians believed sage extended your life to the point of immortality. This was quite a bit of an exaggeration, but nonetheless is a great example of how widely used and sacred this herb was and is. The ancient Greeks and Romans first used sage as a memory enhancer and meat preservative. Research shows this herb has some value as an antiperspirant, preservative, wound treatment and digestive aid and memory enhancer. The generic name for sage is Salvia which derives from the Latin word meaning "to heal".
Sage, Alzheimer's & memory
Sage has some studies to back up its memory enhancing properties. Research done in 2017 suggests its cholinergic activity may be beneficial for cognitive and neurological functions responsible for neurotrophic effects which support growth, survival and differentiation of both developing and mature cells. Cholinergic activity is responsible for "eating" the dead or defective cells in your body that build up. Our brain function begins to decline when it is filled with dead or defective cells, its growth has halted. This is where it has a possible benefit to help with Alzheimer's. Not only does this herb rid the body of dead and defective cells, it improves memory, motivation and mood. Sage is believed to play a role in several cognitive functions! It's also packed with antioxidants which rid excess free radical activity. Free radicals reduce antioxidant defenses, which creates oxidative stress. Oxidative stress, over time, can damage all body tissues, with the brain being particularly susceptible.
Other Benefits of Sage
This ancient herb also acts as a natural antiperspirant- it contains an oil that sets it apart from all other herbs. Several studies have been done proving its ability to cut perspiration by as much as 50%, the peak of the effect happening about 2 hours after ingestion.
Sage is active against several infection-causing bacteria in the test tube.
Acts as a preservative, comparable to commercial preservatives BHA and BHT. Remember to add sage to your next picnic or camping meal. Put a generous amount in hamburger meat, tuna, pasta and potato salads to help it stay longer.
Like most other culinary spices on the market, sage acts as a great digestive aid supporting its traditional use for gastrointestinal relief. Its main focus is relaxing and soothing the muscle lining of the digestive tract.
One German study showed sage reduces blood sugar levels in diabetics who drink it on an empty stomach daily. Diabetes is a serious health condition, please consult your doctor.
Sage contains astringent tannins which accounts for its traditional use in treating mouth issues such as canker sores, sore throat and even bleeding gums
How To Use Sage
For garden first aid on small wounds and cuts, crush the fresh leaves into the wound on your way to the sink to wash your cut. To settle the stomach make an infusion of 1-2 teaspoons of dried leave per 1 cup of boiling water. Steep for about 10 minutes.