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Common Name

Sage

Scientific Name

Salvia Officinalis

Habit

Shrubby plant about 2' in height, with velvety "sage green" oval leaves up to 3" long. Produces whorls of purple-blue flowers in summer. Mediterranean in origin.

Hardiness

USDA Zone 4 to 11

Soil & Site

Well-drained, full sun. Prefers a dry climate. Do not over-water.

History & Lore

Most familiar as a culinary herb, but revered as a cure-all and longevity herb since classical times, when it was known as "the savior." Its name is probably from the Latin salvere, to be safe and well, or saved. Sage was used in the treatment of the plague, epilepsy, cramp, sore throats, palsy, headaches, colds, and lethargy, and as an aid in weaning. Sage is highly recommended by herbalists to treat menopausal symptoms.

Indigenous Americans still burn ceremonial sage for purification and spiritual cleansing. Sage was also used as a tonic to improve the brain and thinking, and is currently being studied as a treatment for Alzheimer's.

Warning: In large doses, sage can be toxic. Desert sage/sagebrush is poisonous!

"How can a man grow old who has sage in his garden?" -Ancient proverb

Suggested Uses

Culinary      

Known as a "prima donna" in the kitchen, sage is best used sparingly and alone. Scatter in salads. Grind sage flowers and infuse for a light soothing herb tea. Dip and fry whole leaves in batter or young leaves in cream, and eat with sugar and orange. Make sage vinegar and butter. Great in sausage and cheese dishes, sage helps you digest fatty foods!

Beauty

Use in facial steams, astringent cleansing lotions, and as a rinse to condition and darken grey hair. Rub on your teeth to whiten, and as a mouthwash.

Health

Aids digestion. Sage is an antiseptic, antifungal, and contains estrogen. Helps combat diarrhea. Reduces sweating, sooths coughs and colds.

Fun Facts

Sage is not fully appreciated as a flowering garden plant, but it is truly lovely in bloom, and bees are crazy about it!