Sage is an herb that has not only been used as a flavoring but also used for medicinal and health purposes. Interestingly Salvia officinalis is the scientific name for sage and its Latin origin translates into English meaning “to be saved”. Many years ago sage was one ingredient that was included in a mix of herbs that were combined in the preventing of the plague, used in the treatment of fevers, used in a tea form to calm people so they could fall asleep and has been continued to be considered as being a remedy for various types of diseases.
Nutritionally sage contains Calcium, Copper, Folic Acid, Iron, Thiamin, Vitamins A, C and K, Manganese, Magnesium, Potassium, Pyridoxine, Riboflavin and Zinc. Sage contains many antioxidants, including apigenin, diosmetin and luteolin. Sage’s antioxidants aid in the reduction of inflammation and the higher amounts of Vitamin A and beta-carotene are important for eye health. In addition the Vitamin C in sage can be a good source of immunity boosting agents. Sage has been researched for helping in the lowering glucose and can be used a preventative toward type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that those with type 2 diabetes, sage aids in the lowering of cholesterol and triglyceride levels also. Flavonoids found in sage have been researched to aid in the reduction of lung cancer and continues to be researched for various other cancers. The calcium in sage is important for healthy bones and combining with the potassium is important for the cardiovascular system. Sage has been known to aid in the alleviation of digesting disorders such as appetite loss, bloating, diarrhea, flatulence, gastritis, and heartburn. Sage has been used for those with Alzheimer’s, brain chemical imbalances, memory loss and depression. Research on sage has indicated that it helps in increasing alertness.
Sage has been known to contain antiseptic values and can aid in healing of cold sores, mouth soreness, gingivitis, swelling of the nasal passages, throat and tongue and sage can also be inhaled to help with asthma. Reducing excessive perspiration and saliva is another benefit in the use of sage. Reducing hot flashes in menopausal women, aiding in painful menstruation and correcting the flow of excessive milk while nursing has been other health benefits of sage. Sage not only has health values but can be used as beauty items. Sage has been recommended as an astringent and can be used for acne; soaking feet to aid in foot and toe nail fungus. Sage is also an ingredient for herbal body washes and deodorants.
The phytochemicals found in herbs like sage have profound affects on physiology so much so that all the health benefits have not yet been discovered. How do you add sage to your diet? You can take the fresh sage leaves and blend them with cucumber and lemon or lime and make a tasty salad dressing or you can take the dried leaves and blend them in a blender to powder then sprinkle the sage on salad or whatever you are eating.
What is the spice of life? Well with food the spice is really fresh herbs not only giving flavor but also countless health benefits. Isn’t it nice when you eat food that tastes good and is also so good for you? “Let your food be your medicine” should be everyone’s motto.
