Sage
Salvia officinalis
AKA Red Sage
Drying
Astringent
Antiseptic
Antimicrobial
Herbal and Medicinal Properties of Sage
Mouth & Throat Infections
Sage infusion may be used as a mouthwash for gingivitis, and other inflammations of the mouth, throat or tonsils. It can also help with laryngitis, pharyngitis, and tonsilitis. (Hoffman, D.)
Drying Properties
Sage may also be used internally to dry up excess bodily secretions such as sweating and lowering breast milk production. (Hoffman, D.)
Sage Biomedical Actions
Carminative, Antispadmodic, Antimicrobial, Astringent, Anti-Inflammatory
Sage Herbal Constituents
Volatile Oils - α- + β-thujone, cineol, borneol, camphor, others
Diterpene bitters - picrosalvin (carnosol), carnosolic acid and others
Flavonoids - salvigenin, genkwanin, 6-methoxygenkwanin, hispidulin, luteolin A
Phenolic Acids - rosmarinic, caffeic, labiatic, salciotanin (a condensed catechin)
Sage Medicinal Dose
German Commission E recommends a daily dose of 4-6 grams of dried herb or equivalent preparation. (Hoffman, D.)
Sage Tincture Dosage
Sage tincture recommended dosage is 2-4ml 3x per day with a 1:5 strength tincture made with 40% alcohol. (Hoffman, D.)
Sage Contraindications
Adverse reactions are only likely with overdoses of 15g or more per dose or with long-term daily use. The toxic constituent of the essential oil - thujone can cause tachycardia, hot flashes, convulsions, and dizziness. (Hoffman, D.)
Avoid during pregnancy as sage stimulates the muscles of the uterus. (Hoffman, D.)
Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical herbalism: The science and practice of herbal medicine. Healing Arts Press.