The strong aroma of just a tiny bit of sage goes a long way. Sage is part of the mint family which includes herbs like basil, oregano, and rosemary. We often hear of sage being used for spiritual reasons and are unaware of health benefits it has and its versatility. Sage is often an ingredient in tomato sauce, with eggs, in stuffings, as a garnish, as a rub for meats, and for flavor with vegetables.
Sage does contain vitamin K, calcium, manganese, iron, vitamin A, copper, zinc, vitamin B6, and fiber. Although most of these nutrients are in trace amounts, sage contains 10% of the amount of vitamin K you need. Plus, it is packed with antioxidants that fight free radicals. Sage has over 160 polyphenols which are plant-based compounds that act like antioxidants. These compounds keep inflammation down, are anticancer, and are neuroprotective. Sage can help ward off certain types of cancer-causing cells from growing abnormally. Antioxidants also help the brain. It helps stop the breakdown or halt the breakdown of the chemical messenger acetylcholine (ACH which is used for memory. People with Alzheimer’s disease have low levels of ACH.
The aroma of sage contains rosemarinic acid, rutin, ellagic acid, caffeic acid, and chlorogenic acid. These have been found to be beneficial for health as well.
There are some interesting benefits of sage that might seem unconventional. Sage is also useful for women in menopause. It can help reduce symptoms including sweating, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and feeling irritable. There is a decline in estrogen during menopause and sage acts like estrogen in the body which reduces symptoms. Sage can be an ingredient in mouthwash that can fight off plaque. It can break down Streptococcus mutans bacteria that causes cavities.
Sage can also help lower “LDL” which is bad cholesterol. Sage can keep diabetes away too. It helps lower blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity. It also helps the skin by keeping wrinkles away. Some people use sage to alleviate diarrhea symptoms.
There are some herbs like sage that don’t get all the credit they deserve. With so many uses, sage is something to keep in stock. Between cooking, aroma, dental care, and health benefits, sage doesn’t skip a positive note. Many people grow it, and practically all stores carry it. Add some sage to parts of your life and reap the benefits this herb generously offers.
Salvia (Sage): A Review of its Potential Cognitive-Enhancing and Protective Effects – PMC
Pharmacological properties of Salvia officinalis and its components – PMC
Dr. Megan Johnson McCullough owns a fitness studio in Oceanside CA called Every BODY’s Fit. She has a Doctorate in Health and Human Performance, M.A. in Physical Education & Health Science, and she’s an NASM Master Trainer & Instructor. She’s also a professional natural bodybuilder, fitness model, Wellness Coach, and AFAA Group Exercise Instructor. She has 6 books on Amazon too,.
