Health Benefits of Sage

When it comes to healthy eating, most people tend to focus on eating more fruits and vegetables. However, herbs and spices can also provide astounding health benefits. Learn how herbs like sage can improve your health and delight your taste buds. 
 

What Is Sage?

Sage belongs to the mint family of herbs, which includes rosemary, basil, thyme and lavender. Sage plants are distinguished by their grayish-green, spear-shaped leaves. Its edible flowers can range from blue to pink to white. For centuries, cultures around the world have used sage to treat a plethora of ailments including sleep disorders, colds and bacterial infections. In fact, its scientific name, Salvia officinalis, stems from the Latin salvere, meaning "to be saved."
 

Nutritional Properties and Uses of Sage

Sage contains a negligible amount of calories, making it an excellent weight-loss food. What it does contain is a collection of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, including:

• Vitamins A and K
• Volatile oils
• Flavonoids
• Phenolic acids including rosmarinic acid (named after rosemary)

These compounds work together to regulate metabolism and protect cells from free radicals. The acids and vitamins in sage help prevent inflammation and boost the immune system. Consuming sage is especially beneficial for people with chronic diseases such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis and atherosclerosis. Herbal sage tea can relieve indigestion and dyspepsia. Studies also support sage's role in regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels in people with diabetes.

Apart from dietary uses, sage can also be used as a skin toner, mouthwash and an antibacterial. Though research is limited, the tannin compounds in sage may help relieve hot flashes in menopausal women.
 

Sage and Brain Health

It's not surprising that an herb synonymous with wisdom can promote a sharper mind. Studies conducted in the U.S. and the UK found sage helpful in the treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. Subjects who incorporated sage into their diets over several months showed improved recall and fewer disruptive symptoms. Sage can also improve brain function in people without cognitive disorders. A double-blind study found that even a small dosage of sage oil extract significantly boosted short-term memory among young adults compared to the control group.
 

Choosing and Storing Sage

Fresh sage beats out dried or powdered sage in both flavor and nutrition. Look for vivid grayish-green leaves free of yellow patches or dark spots. Farmers markets often have a fresher selection of sage, and even dried varieties provide substantial health benefits. If possible, choose organic sage, which retains more of its natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Like most herbs, sage is available year-round.

Fresh sage can last for several days when wrapped in a moist paper towel, placed inside a plastic bag and stored in the refrigerator. Store dried sage in a sealed glass jar away from sunlight, heat and moisture. It should keep for about half a year.

Sage is also available as an oil extract, herbal supplement and an ingredient in topical products.
 

Cooking with Sage

Sage makes a flavorful addition to salads, sandwiches, soups, sauces, meat and poultry. Due to its low sodium content, sage makes a healthy salt substitute and can help lower blood pressure. Take care when cooking sage, as high heat and long cooking times can destroy its nutritional and medicinal properties.

Health Risks of Sage

While sage allergies are extremely rare, a few people may exhibit mild symptoms. The potential side effects of sage supplements and other derivative forms of sage vary depending on other compounds present in the product. Sage should not be consumed in excessive amounts, as high concentrations of volatile oils can be toxic. Topical application may cause mild irritation, especially from store-bought creams and lotions containing sage. As a precaution, pregnant and lactating women should consult their doctor before using sage.

Aromatic, heart-healthy, and brain-boosting, there are virtually no downsides to adding sage to your diet. However, it's important to eat a variety of foods and not focus only on the benefits of one. Ask your nutritionist or dietitian for more sage advice.