Salbei / Sage / Salvia officinalis

Native to the Mediterranean region, Sage leaves are regarded as a comprehensive panacea, traditionally used to treat ailments ranging from inflammation to oxidative cell damage. In the ancient world, Sage was valued in China and Egypt for its digestive and aphrodisiac properties. Its popularity later spread throughout Europe, where Greeks and Romans prepared tonics believed to cure coughs and ward off evil spirits.

When applied topically, Sage’s antimicrobial and fungicidal properties disinfect wounds, soothe inflamed mucous membranes, and calm skin infections. In modern herbal medicine, dried Sage leaves are approved for internal use to ease mild gastrointestinal discomfort and reduce excessive sweating and salivation.

Similar to rosemary, Sage essential oil has been shown to support brain function and improve memory recall, inspiring further research into its potential benefits for patients with Alzheimer’s disease. While Sage is widely appreciated in both clinical and pharmaceutical contexts, excessive intake may cause adverse effects. For this reason, it is inadvisable to use Sage as a treatment for serious conditions without the guidance of a qualified medical professional.