Sage, Garden

Garden Sage

Salvia officinalis

Botanical Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family)

Botanical Description

Salvia officinalis is an aromatic evergreen shrub growing 30-70cm tall. The distinctive grey-green leaves are elongated, textured with a pebbly surface, and covered with fine hairs. Blue-violet flowers appear in whorls on tall spikes in summer. The entire plant is highly aromatic with the characteristic “stuffing” scent familiar from culinary use.

Medicinal Actions

Primary actions: Antimicrobial, astringent, antispasmodic, carminative, antiperspirant, cognitive enhancer.

Traditional uses: The Latin name “Salvia” comes from “salvare” (to save). An old proverb asks “Why should a man die while sage grows in his garden?” Used traditionally for sore throats, digestive complaints, excessive sweating, and to enhance memory.

Modern research: Studies support traditional uses for cognitive enhancement, reducing hot flashes, and as an antimicrobial for sore throats (as gargle).

Body Systems Affected

Nervous: Enhances memory and cognitive function; calming.

Reproductive: Reduces hot flashes and night sweats; traditional remedy for menopausal symptoms.

Digestive: Carminative and antispasmodic; aids digestion of fatty foods.

Respiratory/Immune: Antimicrobial; excellent gargle for sore throats.

Safety Information

Culinary amounts: Very safe.

Medicinal doses: Contains thujone – avoid large doses or prolonged use.

Pregnancy/Nursing: Avoid medicinal doses – can reduce milk supply and has traditional emmenagogue use.

Epilepsy: Thujone may lower seizure threshold. Avoid in epilepsy.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Zones 4-9. Mediterranean origin.

Light: Full sun.

Soil: Well-drained, somewhat dry soil. Dislikes wet feet.

Sowing: Sow in spring. Germination can be slow.

Spacing: 45-60cm apart.

Harvesting

Part used: Leaves.

When to harvest: Before flowering for highest oil content. Can harvest lightly throughout season.

Drying & Storage

Dry at 35°C (95°F). Sage dries well and retains potency. Store in airtight containers for up to 1-2 years. Retains flavor and medicinal value well when dried.