Sage is one of the most well-known aromatic and medicinal plants for its many therapeutic properties. In ancient times, it was already used by those people who wanted to benefit from its tonic effect and antioxidant, anti-infectious, and anxiolytic capacity.
Its Latin name means “save,” and in European medicine, it is used in both the coldest and most desert regions. In fact, there are different species of sage, and all of them are medicinal. Do you want to know the properties, benefits, and contraindications of sage?
Benefits of the sage infusion: what is it for?
Sage is used in multiple ways, although its preparation in infusion or tea is one of the most used for its multiple benefits. This plant has been used in traditional medicine for quite some time, something that is not surprising considering all the advantages of this exceptional drink:
– The sage infusion treats different digestive problems such as diarrhea, swelling, and heartburn.
– It has been proven to act against oral mucositis, a complication that does not facilitate the fight against cancer. And it is that in the mouth, quite painful wounds form, and this infusion is very good to relieve and reduce its degree of incidence.
– It relieves menstrual cramps and reduces sweating and hot flashes associated with menopause.
– It is used to stop the symptoms of a strong cold, such as cough and swollen throat.
– It treats different difficult episodes of our lives, such as insomnia, memory loss, and depression.
– Regular consumption of sage infusion helps to reduce bad cholesterol and regulate the total level of cholesterol.
– Strengthen the bones and the immune system.
– After regular topical use, it is effective in treating skin problems such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema.
– Its antioxidant effects eliminate the free radicals present in the body, as well as those from other toxic substances present in pesticides or smoke.
– It not only prevents aging but also helps to reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.
– It acts on brain function by improving the state of concentration and memory, and eliminating any cognitive disorder that appears (dementia or Alzheimer’s).
– It has been found to have substances similar to medicines designed to control diabetes. This means that sage infusion can regulate the release of glucose stored in the liver, avoiding blood sugar imbalances.
Salvia: properties and benefits
– This plant has expectorant properties that act as an effective cleaner in colds or catarrh that have not yet developed. Infusion or sage tea will help you clean your body in just 7 days by making mucus spring from the body.
– Sage, whether taken in infusion or inhaled, is a good option to relieve the symptoms of congestion and colds. Even in cases of rhinitis, bronchitis, and similar conditions, sage with saline solution in an inhaler or vaporizer can be a great ally.
– Sage also slows down problems related to the menstrual cycle, whether with irregularity, amenorrhea, menstrual cramps, or scant menstruation. Similarly, it ends with the changes typical of menopause, such as excessive sweating and hot flashes that many women experience during this process.
– It is also anti-inflammatory, being beneficial for the throat, mucous membranes, and oral mucosa. Furthermore, its effects help alleviate certain digestive disorders, reducing stomach bloating and combating dyspepsia and heartburn.
– Within its composition, there are polyphenolic substances, present in some plants and foods, which stand out for their antioxidant effect that prevents the oxidation of tissues, contributing to skin health, healing, and brain health.
– Several studies have shown that it also offers a relaxing and anxiolytic action that helps combat nervous tension and anxiety, favoring muscle relaxation.
Side effects or contraindications of sage
We’ve already talked about the properties and benefits of sage, but what about the contraindications? Sage, in addition to being taken as an infusion or tea, is also used in cooking, and many people use the plant in some of their recipes. However, this does not mean that its consumption does not have side effects, as it also contains substances that, when consumed in large quantities, are dangerous to health (camphor and thujone).
Some of the adverse consequences that may occur are seizures and a gradual deterioration of the liver. That is why it is advisable not to exceed your consumption and not to exceed one glass of sage infusion per day. In addition, attention should be paid to the variety of sage used and how it has been prepared to know the toxic levels it presents.
In the case of pregnant women, their consumption is contraindicated as thujone can cause uterine contractions. Although the sage infusion is recommended to decrease the amount of breast milk in cases of overproduction, infants should not eat it; hence, it is important to consult a doctor first.
In addition, people with hormonal imbalances should not use it, as sage acts in a similar way to estrogen.
From here, we have tried to catch up on the properties, benefits, and contraindications of the sage so you know how to handle it. Taking a sage infusion occasionally is beneficial to boost the immune system and improve health, especially for colds and sore throats. In addition, it helps to be hydrated and to increase antioxidant levels, although it is necessary to avoid exceeding their consumption.