Organically cultivated on our Tea Plantation in Northumberland, and carefully harvested and packed by our dedicated volunteers, European sage (Salvia officinalis) is a treasured medicinal herb and a cornerstone of Dilston Physic Garden. This remarkable foodstuff plant is not only central to our garden’s history and research, but also symbolises the profound healing power of nature. Historically revered throughout Europe and Asia, Salvia officinalis was once so valued that it was traded at three times the price of Chinese tea. Common sage is known as a tonic that supports both mind and body. Salvia comes from the Latin word meaning ‘to heal or save’ and is widely used in both culinary and medicinal preparations through human history. It has been traditionally used for the treatment of a range of problems including digestive and circulation disturbances, bronchitis, coughs, asthma, mouth and throat inflammation, excessive sweating and salivation, angina, depression and memory problems. Its efficacy is backed by established scientific research.
Foremost among its benefits, when taken as a plant medicine, European sage has been shown to clinically enhance memory in the young, the elderly, and in those with Alzheimer’s disease. Sage increases acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter associated with memory and attention. Sage is also neurotrophic, supporting the development survival and differentiation of neurons, and is anti-amyloid. Clinical studies also demonstrate that sage improves mood and promote a sense of contentment. Sage affects adrenergic α2A receptor, μ-opioid receptors, muscarinic M3 receptors, and serotonin 5-HT1A receptors.
Sage is rich in polyphenols including terpenoids and flavonoids, which contribute to its neuroprotective effects:
- Sage has significant antioxidant activity, protecting cells from oxidative stress and contributing to brain and overall health. These antioxidants help to neutralise free radicals, which are harmful molecules that can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases.
- Sage is a powerful anti-inflammatory, particularly in reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This makes it potentially beneficial for reducing inflammation in the brain and in managing conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and other inflammatory disorders.
- Sage improves blood lipid profiles by lowering “bad” cholesterol and increasing “good” cholesterol, which in turn also support brain health.
- Sage regulates blood sugar levels and has been studied for its hypoglycemic effects, showing promise in the management of type 2 diabetes, again which also supports brain health.
Additionally, sage exhibits oestrogenic effects, supporting hormonal balance and the management of menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings. Studies also indicate that sage helps reduce pain, particularly in conditions like sore throats, due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Sage also has anticancer effects and is a key antimicrobial, being antibacterial, antifungal, as well as antiviral, indicating use in preventing or treating infections, particularly those involving the respiratory and digestive systems, as well as helping protect the brain.
Nutritionally a tablespoon of sage provides 43% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K, is a source of fiber and B vitamins (such as thiamin), vitamin C, vitamin E, and essential minerals including copper, calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium and manganese.
The Salvia genus comprises over 900 species, of which, Salvia officinalis (common sage) and Salvia lavandulaefolia L. (Spanish sage) have a longstanding reputation as traditional plant medicines, being used by the ancient Greeks and Romans and in Ayurvedic, Native American and Chinese medicine. Despite their widespread use, adverse effects to common sage and Spanish sage have rarely been documented in scientific literature. In all the clinical trials, these plants did not cause serious adverse reaction, but should are contraindicated in epilepsy.
