Sage

Common sage (Salvia officinalis) reached Central Europe from the Mediterranean region as early as the early Middle Ages and is now widespread here. It was monks who brought the sage leaves over the Alps to northern regions because of their healing effects known since antiquity. Although sage has long been a typical feature in our home gardens, its warm native habitat makes it very sensitive to cold. Common sage needs a lot of sun but copes very well with water scarcity. That is why it also thrives on dry and rocky soils, preferably enriched with lime.

The much praised healing effect of the evergreen herb is due to the sage leaves. The most important ingredients of the leaves are essential oil, tannins, as well as bitter substances, diterpenes, triterpenes, and flavonoids. Sage leaves of other species contain similar active ingredients but differ in their composition from common sage.

Because of its distinctive slightly bitter taste, common sage is widely used as a spice in the kitchen. Dried or freshly picked sage leaves add an extra kick to hearty dishes. As a spice, the kitchen herb goes very well with meat dishes, fish, and herb cheese. Fresh sage leaves are often used as poultry stuffing. Sage tea also tastes delicious.

Common sage is especially valuable as a medicinal plant – a use already hinted at by its name: The Latin salvus is translated as whole, healthy, and well. Sage leaves promise an anti-inflammatory effect in the mouth and throat area. Therefore, the plant is effective for infections of the upper respiratory tract or gum inflammation. Additionally, sage leaves have an antiperspirant effect. For this reason, a foot bath with sage is often recommended for sweaty feet.

Traditional medicine also uses sage leaves to treat stomach and intestinal complaints. Bloating and feelings of fullness are said to be relieved by sage. It is especially good at supporting fat digestion.

You can recognize common sage by its characteristic leaves. They are narrow and taper to a point at the end. The upper side of the sage leaves is covered with a silvery layer of hairs, while the underside is more felt-like hairy.

Sage is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This is due to the contracting effect of the sage leaves, which could trigger premature labor. Additionally, they are said to inhibit milk production.