Sip of Sacred Sage

My brother recently gifted me a bottle of Sage tincture he located from an incredible grower while travelling this summer.

I was unsure how to use it, so I referred to my Pacific Rim Herbal textbook, and, of course, it is the perfect medicine arriving for me at the perfect time. Plants are magical like that.

Sage is used to support the respiratory system, digestive system, nervous system, and women’s health. It can help to reduce and relieve sweating and hot flashes.

It should not be used while still breastfeeding, as it will reduce milk production unless you want to do that for weaning support.

Its name means ‘to be saved’ due to its medicinal action. It was held sacred by the Egyptians and was used in medicine by the Greeks, the Romans, and the Arabic physicians.

There is an old saying that where sage grows well, the woman is in charge of the household. My sage plants have always been bumping;)

To make an infusion, use 1 tsp per cup of boiling water 1x/day. Steep covered for 10 minutes. Infusion can be consumed warm or cold, depending on the desired effect.

For a sore throat, you can gargle or rinse with an infusion. For this, use 2 tsp per 1/2 cup of water 2-3x/day. Steep covered for 10-15 minutes or overnight.

I am using it to cool my body down and to enhance my cognitive function. It has been shown to support brain health and memory (I am talking to you, brain fog!). It has an overall supportive and strengthening effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation. Sign me up!

Wishing you (and me) warm sips, cool sleeps, and clear thinking!

*Do not use sage essential oil internally or as a throat spray. It should not be taken internally in large amounts (stick to the quantities suggested above) or for extended periods of time.