Salvia officinalis
Jekkapedia
Salvia officinalis, Sage, Common Sage
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Salvia
Mauve/ blue flowers. Highly aromatic, finely veined, oval, greeny/grey, textured leaves. Culinary; flowers and leaves are edible. Use leaves with rice, vegetables and meat dishes.
Characteristics:
Sage can be seen at the herb farm in Jekka’s Herbetum and is available to buy as both herb plants and online as herb seeds.
Details
Growing
• Indoor Sowing: In early spring, into prepared plug trays or pots, cover with perlite. Bottom heat, 18°C, aids germination.
• Outdoor Sowing: In early summer, into a well-drained, sunny site. Thin to 45cm apart.
Medicinal
In previous centuries, sage’s antibiotic action may account for its use in the treatment of tuberculosis. Nowadays these qualities are just as useful for other respiratory infections and a cup of warm sage tea can be used as an effective gargle for a sore throat and other infections in this region, for example tonsillitis, laryngitis and pharyngitis. Sage has a reputation for aiding longevity and clinical evidence supports the traditional belief that it improves memory. There is also evidence to support its use in early dementia due to its calming properties. Its phytoestrogen content is helpful for ladies during menopause, sipping cold sage tea has been shown to ease the hot flushes and night sweats that are sometimes experienced at this time.
Caution: Avoid in pregnancy and whilst breast feeding.
Please note: The information provided here is for educational interest only and is not intended to be used to diagnose or treat significant health problems. Any serious or long-term health concerns should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.
See our blog for more information about the National Institute of Medical Herbalists
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