Sage is an aromatic plant native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region to which numerous beneficial properties for health have been attributed since ancient times; in fact, its name, “sage”, means to cure or heal. However, many of these positive effects have not been demonstrated or are false. Knowing what the real benefits of this plant can be to know when and how it should be used.
Health Benefits of Sage with myths and truths
1. It alleviates the own changes of the menopause
True. The professor of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy of the CEU San Pablo University of Madrid, Antonio Aguilar, affirms that “one of the indications of sage is for the treatment of hot flashes and excessive sweating that some women experience during menopause, for this reason, it is more used by the female ”.
2. It is anti-inflammatory
True. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) recognizes its anti-inflammatory effect, both for the skin and for the oral mucosa and throat.
3. It helps to get a flat stomach
False. The EMA recognizes that sage has to regulate properties of digestion since it serves for the symptomatic treatment of mild dyspepsia (a digestion disorder whose most frequent symptoms are nausea, heaviness, stomach pain, and flatulence ); However, the expert admits that “although it has been used historically to aid in digestion, there is a difference between this statement and the fact that it works to achieve a flat stomach.”
4. Relieves heartburn
True: In addition to being a good remedy for dyspepsia, Aguilar claims that sage also helps fight heartburn and reduce bloating.
5. Sage is an antioxidant
True. In its composition, says the CEU expert, “there are polyphenolic compounds “, which are substances found in some foods and plants and characterized by their antioxidant effect.
6. Has diuretic properties
False. Although it has been pointed out on some occasions that sage favors the elimination of body fluid, the European Medicines Agency does not recognize that it has diuretic properties.
How to take sage?
In order to take full advantage of all the benefits of this plant, the EMA highlights that there are several ways to take sage:
Infusions: The recommendation is to take 25 grams of sage leaves for every liter of water, three times a day.
Tablets: As Aguilar highlights, there are some drugs marketed in Spain that have dry sage extract as the only active ingredient.
Topical preparations: Sage is also part of topical preparations such as lotions, creams, ointments, and cosmetics in general.
Read here the health benefits of sage tea.
