What are the health benefits of sage?
Health Benefits of Sage
Sage, also known as salvia officinalis, is an herb belonging to the mint family native to the Mediterranean region. Sage has been traditionally used for medicinal and culinary purposes for many centuries. Traditionally sage has been used to treat digestive and circulation disturbances, bronchitis, cough, asthma, angina, mouth and throat inflammations, depression, excessive sweating, skin diseases, menstrual pain and oral health.
Sage has essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin K, iron, vitamin B6, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, magnesium and manganese.
Sage has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
Sage is rich in antioxidants, containing over 160 polyphenols, that help fight free radicals in that body and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. One study found that drinking 1 cup of sage tea twice a day significantly improved good cholesterol levels and antioxidant defenses. It also showed it lowered the bad LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels.
Sage may also help manage diabetes by lowering glucose levels.
Sage may also reduce menopause symptoms including, hot flashes, excessive sweating, vaginal dryness and irritability. Sage has estrogen like properties that may help improve brain memory, treat hot flashes and excessive sweating. Studies have shown that consuming a daily supplement of sage significantly reduced the number and intensity of hot flashes over 8 weeks.
Sage may also promote oral health. Studies have shown that sage was effective in killing the Streptococcus mutans bacteria that causes dental cavities. Sage may also treat infected gums, ulcers, throat infections and dental abscesses but more research is needed.
Sage may also improve brain health and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown that people with mild or moderate Alzheimer’s disease who consumed 2 ml of sage extract supplement daily for 4 months had performed better on tests that measured memory, problem-solving and other cognitive abilities. Higher doses of sage extract also improved mood, increased alertness, calmness and contentedness.
Sage may also promote skin health, bone health, relieve diarrhea, have anti-cancer properties, combat aging and obesity.
As always consult with your physician.
Sources:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11809447/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salvia_officinalis
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/sage
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-sage