Sage

Native to the Balkan and Mediterranean, sage is a member of the mint family and its bluish-purple flowers and greyish-green leaves are a familiar sight in many of our UK gardens.Sage is traditionally associated with long life and legends abound about long-lived princes who regularly downed cups of sage tea, while an old country rhyme tells us that ‘ he who drinks sage in May, shall live for aye.’

The ancient Greeks and Romans first used sage as meat preservative as well as a memory enhancer. It was also used to stop wounds bleeding, to clean ulcers and sores and for sore throats. The Roman naturalist Pliny prescribed it for snakebite, intestinal worms, chest ailments and period problems. Listed by the Council of Europe as a natural source of food flavouring, it has been used for more than 2,000 years in culinary recipes.

For sore thraots ans mouth ulcers
Its antiseptic and astringent properties make sage ideal for many conditions of the mouth and throat, including ulcers, gingivitis, laryngitis and sore throats. The best method is to use a sage infusion as a gargle or mouthwash.

For menopausal symptoms
Sipping cold sage tea is a traditional remedy for menopausal problems such as sweating, hot flushes and headaches.

For digestive problems
Sage is a carminative herb, which means it is good for the digestive system. It can be used to treat cramp, wind and intestinal spasms caused by indigestion and it also promotes bile flow. Taken in conjunction with bitter herbs such as dandelion, goldenseal and artichoke, it can be used to stimulate appetite.

For improving memory
Research shows that sage can improve memory and may be helpful in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s disease. It works by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, a compound thought to help prevent and treat Alzheimer’s disease.

For insect bites
Simply squeeze the juice from fresh leaves or even just rub leaves onto the area to soothe insect bites.