Sage

The healing properties of a tea with sage

Sage tea is an aromatic decoction made from the leaves of the herb, which belongs to the same family as mint. Commonly used as a spice, sage also has a long history of use in alternative and traditional medicine. In particular, its tea is full of health benefits.

Rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds

Sage tea contains a variety of powerful plant compounds. In particular, its antioxidants work to neutralize harmful free radicals, which when accumulated in the body can lead to chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. Sage tea is particularly rich in rosmarinic acid, an antioxidant with numerous benefits, including reduced inflammation and blood sugar levels. It also provides a good amount of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health, circulation and proper blood clotting.

Healthy skin and wound healing

Sage is a common ingredient in cosmetics applied topically as a natural skin care remedy. It is likely that drinking its tea provides some of the same benefits, such as healthy skin cell growth, delaying skin aging and reducing wrinkle formation. In addition, an animal study correlated the carnosol and carnosic acid of this herb with helping to treat sun-related damage and other inflammatory skin problems. Other studies show that sage extract helps heal herpes and speeds up wound healing.

Good oral hygiene

Sage is one of the most popular herbs in dentistry, as it targets pain, inflammation and bad breath in the mouth, as well as fighting bacteria and healing wounds. In fact, sage tea gargles are often recommended as a treatment for mouth sores and sore throats.

Women’s health

This herb can also provide some unique benefits to women. In the Middle East, pregnant women commonly use sage to treat digestive symptoms such as nausea, a common problem in early pregnancy. Historically, sage has been used as a natural way to reduce breast milk production in women during weaning or when they have an excess of milk. However, there is little research to support any of these traditional uses. Research, however, shows that sage helps reduce hot flashes by up to 64%.

Health of the heart

Some research suggests that sage may help improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease. A 2-month study of 105 people with type 2 diabetes found that those who took 500mg of sage extract 3 times a day had healthier triglyceride levels and all cholesterol markers, compared to those in a control group.

Brain health and improved mood

Sage is widely used in alternative medicine to boost mood, improve memory and help prevent brain-related disorders such as Alzheimer’s. Scientific research supports many of these uses.

Improves blood sugar control

It is a common ingredient in alternative sugar medications and may help improve blood sugar levels and also help prevent or treat type 2 diabetes.