Sage
Sage is an herb known for its antioxidant and cognitive-enhancing properties, supporting memory and oral health.
Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a common kitchen herb with a rich history in traditional medicine. It is used for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and memory-enhancing properties.
It may help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and support cognitive function. Sage is commonly consumed as a tea or extract and is often used for sore throats and hot flashes.
Sage is used for memory, menopausal support, and oral health. While safe in small doses, concentrated oils should be used cautiously due to potential toxicity.
Other names & forms of Sage supplement : salvia officinalis, sage leaf, sage extract, sage oil
Possible Benefits
The benefits of sage include cognitive support, digestive aid, and antioxidant protection:
- Helps support Cognitive Health by improving memory, focus, and mental clarity.
- May contribute to Digestive Health by soothing indigestion and reducing gastrointestinal spasms.
- Provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, promoting Anti-Aging and overall cellular protection.
- Used traditionally to support Immunity through its antimicrobial properties.
- Sage has traditionally been used to help alleviate discomfort during women's menstrual periods, supporting hormonal balance and easing cramps.
Side Effects
Sage can enhance cognitive focus and digestion, but you may notice mild effects as its essential oils act. Watch for:
- Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea or cramping, especially if taken on an empty stomach
- Possible mouth or throat irritation when using concentrated extracts
- Occasional headache or dizziness in sensitive users
- Rare allergic skin reactions, rash or itching, in those sensitive to Salvia species
- Temporary mild changes in blood pressure, monitor if you have hypotension
Interactions
Possible interactions include:
- Anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies: Sage’s thujone may potentiate warfarin or supplements like Garlic, raising bleeding risk, monitor clotting.
- Antidiabetic drugs: Sage can influence insulin release; when used with insulin or Cinnamon, monitor blood sugar to prevent hypoglycemia.
- Hormone-sensitive therapies: Its mild estrogenic activity may interact with HRT or Progesterone; consult your provider if on hormone medications.
- Anticholinergic medications: Sage’s antimuscarinic effects could counteract drugs like atropine, use with care.
Precautions
Before adding Sage to your routine, confirm you’re not in any of these cautionary categories. If you are, consult your healthcare provider:
- Individuals with epilepsy: High thujone content in some sage species can be neurotoxic; avoid unless using low-thujone varieties
- People on blood-thinning medications: Potential to affect clotting; monitor parameters
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women: High-dose essential oils may be unsafe; stick to culinary use or seek medical advice
- Those with hypotension: May lower blood pressure slightly; monitor levels
- Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior, possible anesthesia interactions
Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. If you're pregnant, have a condition, or take medication, speak with a qualified professional.
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