The Romans and Chinese were probably the first civilizations to use this incredible gift from nature. The Romans believed it would cure anything, while the Chinese believed it would solve sterility. While it will not fix everything, it has been shown to help with female sterility, and a lot of other ailments. The Europeans used sage oil during the Middle Ages; in nerve tonics. It was also common for use in cleaning the gums, and is an approved herb in modern day Germany for treatment of upset stomach, and excessive sweating. The word “Sage” is derived from the Latin word “salvare” and means heal or save.
Sage oil has a particularly strong smell to it and is watery. The oil can be extracted from the sage plant leaves by means of steam distillation. A warning is in order here. Sage oil is immensely strong and must be used with caution. Using too much of this oil can cause convulsions, and should not be used by pregnant or nursing women. It should not be used by anyone who suffers from epilepsy or high- blood pressure.
Sage oil possesses a lot of therapeutic value and includes the ability to help with problems such as anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, and a laxative as well. It can be used as bath oil, or in soap, shampoo, toothpaste and tea. It can be used to treat skin problems for sheep, (if you happen to own a sheep herd) and makes an excellent fragrant potpourri to.
It has been shown to help with poor digestion, and poor appetite. It is useful in dealing with rheumatism, menstrual problems, and regulates hormones. It can be used as a tonic for the urinary tract, kidneys and liver. It also has been used to treat insect bites, ulcers, wounds and large pores. It can reduce the pain of aching muscles and palsy, coughing and sore throats. As can be seen, it is an incredible gift from nature.
For internal use, dilute 5ml of extract in a glass of water, but no more than 3 times a day. To treat a sore throat or mouth infection, boil 150 ml of water, and then add 3 grams of sage leaf. Strain after 10 minutes and allow it to cool. This makes an excellent mouth rinse or gargle a few times a day. Add a drop of sage oil to your toothpaste, and use with a wet tooth brush to take advantage of sage oils natural antibacterial action. Sage oil is naturally full of vitamins and minerals. For a natural and healthy shampoo, try 4 ounces of liquid soap combined with 4 drops of sage oil.
Studies done by the holistic herbalist suggest that sage tea is helpful for the memory, and is currently being studied as a treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.