Sage

Also known as: Sage essential oil, from Salvia officinalis of the Labiatae family and is also known as garden sage, true sage, and Dalmatian sage.

Used since ancient times, the Chinese believed sage cured sterility, and the Romans believed it cured everything else.  During the Middle Ages it was a well known tonic, and was also used in dental hygiene.

Sage was, and is, used in many Native American rituals, and is believed to cleanse and purify surroundings.  An aid to drive out evil, or unclean spirits, sage is essential to many sacred ceremonies.

Sage was also used as medicine, not just by the Native American population, but throughout history.  It was known to assist in female complaints of all kinds.

Home Remedies using Sage Essential Oil:

Essential oil of sage can be used with good results for many different problems, as long as it is diluted properly. Sage oil is extracted via steam distillation from a flowering perennial herb, Calvia officinalis.

Benefits of Sage Essential Oil:

The therapeutic properties of sage oil are too many to name, but among its uses, it is known to reduce swelling, redness, and inflammation.  It is a wonderful antiseptic, invaluable in cleaning wounds, medical tools, and sick rooms.

Uses of Sage Essential Oil:

It kills bacteria, is astringent, prevents spasms associated with diarrhea and vomiting, helps with menstrual regulation and infertility, promotes blood flow to the uterus, helps rid sufferers of excess water retention, brings down fever, and is a general purpose tonic.

• Used in aromatherapy a simmer pot, vaporizer, or diffuser works well.  Sage essential oil may also be used in steam therapy.
• Essential oil of sage may be blended with other essential oil, for a custom mix. 
• A drop or two of sage oil can be very beneficial when added to a warm bath.
• Sage oil or an oil blend may be added to a carrier oil for massage therapy.

Side Effects of Sage Essential Oil:

Even though sage oil can be toxic, due to the high thujone content, if the mix is too strong, it is therapeutic, and the benefits and risks should be accessed.

Sage oil may cause convulsions when used in too high concentrations.

Sage Oil should never be used on children.  It is an oral toxin.  KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

A possible alternative to Sage oil, if you want some of the benefits without the risks, consider substituting clary sage oil.