The name Sage is the herb was once used for clearing mucous from the eyes. During the sixteenth century it was also used in England for brewing beer as a replacement for hops. Historically is has been used for digestive complaints, respiratory infections and menstrual difficulties. It also is thought to balance hormones for both men and women.
As a matter of fact, two professionally made blends that contain Sage that are excellent for balancing the hormones and endocrine systems are essential oils. Because of its astringent properties, Sage Essential Oil is effective for dandruff, oily skin and hair. It is also used in some skin care products to soothe the skin and reduce scarring.
An herb of ancient repute, the Romans called it herb a sacra, "sacred herb". Sage is an oil to be treated with respect and with overuse it can be toxic. However it is well known for its usefulness in treating oily skin and hair. Some say it promotes hair growth. Sage is native to the Mediterranean region but cultivated worldwide especially in Albania, China, France, Greece, Italy, Turkey, the USA and Yugoslavia. The oil is used extensively as flavoring in both the food and beverage industry. It is also used as a fragrance component in anti-per spirants, colognes, detergents, perfumes, soaps and shampoos. Sage Folklore Sage was used during the middle Ages to treat many maladies including fevers, liver disease, and epilepsy. The herb was used in England to make a team that was considered a pleasant and healthful beverage. One common belief was that sage strengthened the memory; hence a sage, or a wise man, always had a long memory. In the 9th century, Charlemagne had sage included among the herbs grown on the imperial farms in Germany. During the 17th century, the Chinese exchanged three or four pounds of their tea with Dutch traders for one pound of European sage leaves. This oil is non-toxic and will not irritate or sensitize the skin. Sage should not be used directly on the skin. The oil should first be mixed with diluting or carrier oil.
Benefit & Uses: It is always important to know the genus species and what part of the plant the oil is distilled from. Sage has been used for thousands of years to induce trance states and enhance spiritual awareness. It brings about purification and cleansing of our life patterns, particularly those where we are self defeating.
During this process, we surrender to spirit and allow the wisdom of our elders, that we all possess, to support us on our path and to change our beliefs that no longer serve us. Sage oil also offers us protection and the comfort level we need to permit this process to enfold.
Sage Essential Oil is viewed by aroma therapists as an antidepressant, antispasmodic, deodorant, emmenagogue and hypertensive, nervine, sedative, tonic and uterine. It is well known for providing a euphoric action, for balancing uterine issues, and as an agent to clean greasy hair. It has also effectiveness in helping to relax the spasms of asthma.
Because of its potential hormonal effects, women who are pregnant and those who have breast cancer are advised to steer clear of the oil.
Rubbing the sage oil on temples can soothe mood and mind. When need to relax, whether have a headache or are simply stressed out, this oil may offer a simple (and inexpensive) solution.
Applied on eczema spots, sage can also reduce irritation. Combined with carrier oil, like jojoba, it can be used on larger areas of the skin to reduce wrinkles and improve tone and texture. Further, a few drops can sooth stomach and digestive ailments. Added to an herbal tea, the oil can soothe respiratory issues, and problems in the urinary tract and intestines.