Herbally Yours

Why should a man die who has sage in his garden?
This ancient proverb attests the value placed on sage as food, medicine, and preservative throughout the ages.

Sage’s history is ancient and begins before written history. It is believed to have originated in the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea and has one of the longest histories of use of any medicinal herb.

The Greeks and Romans both knew of it’s power to preserve meats, and prized it for its many healing properties. What these peoples knew from experience, modern science has proven by being able to isolate the herbs numerous terpene antioxidants and other chemical properties.

Sage has been known as a panacea in many cultures as its scientific name Salvia, derived from the Latin word salvere meaning to be saved denotes.

People who have inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, bronchial asthma, and atherosclerosis should increase their intake of dietary sage, as sage is a potent anti inflammatory and anti oxidant. It is also a great memory enhancer and is used in combination with other anti-oxidant herbs in the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia.

A gargle of sage tea with honey and lemon is a tasty way to take care of a sore throat or tonsilitis. The uses of sage medicinally are seemingly unending, and adding it to the foods you eat is a great way to boost your immune system and add trace nutrients to your diet.