Member of the Mint family

Sage is a very important herb used in cooking for the holidays, but it is also important for medicinal reasons. The leaves, which can have a greenish-gray pebbly look, are the most commonly used part, being used in poultices, teas, and gargles. The plant is an evergreen and is very aromatic.

Sage is great as a digestive aid, making it extra useful for those large holiday meals. It helps with digestion of fatty foods, diarrhea, and for relief of gas. Did holiday planning or gatherings give you a headache? Sage is known for its sedative properties and can help relieve headaches.

Cold and flu symptoms can be treated with the use of sage, including sinus congestion. As a gargle it can relieve sore throat, laryngitis, and tonsillitis. Sage tea can be consumed for relief of hot flashes and night sweats, excessive perspiration, and mouth ulcers. The herb is useful for getting rid of toxins in the body and is used for bladder and kidney infections and as a tonic for the liver. Sage acts as a stimulant and improves blood circulation along with warming the body.

Sage is also useful in body care as an astringent for skin conditions and as a hair conditioner. It can be helpful for intense insect bites; it is even safe to use on dogs for flea bites.

Sage should never be used in excessive amounts as it may induce poison symptoms. It can also dry out mammary glands, so should not be used during while breastfeeding.