Medicinal sage is one of the most popular herbs that is used not only in the kitchen to season dishes, but also in natural medicine and cosmetics. Due to its rich composition, it has a number of medicinal properties. Most often, sage infusion is used for this purpose, which can be used both internally and externally. It should be used to improve digestion and fight flatulence and indigestion.

Sage also has antibacterial and fungicidal properties, making it an excellent remedy for sore throat relief and for treating mouth ulcers, thrush, and ulcers. Sage infusion can also help women with heavy periods and hot flashes. In addition, this product has a beneficial effect on the skin, reducing wrinkles, unevenness and acne. Why else is it worth drinking sage infusion? Is it completely safe, and can I use it?

The composition of medicinal sage

Склад лікувальної шавлії
The composition of medicinal sage

The leaves and crushed parts of sage contain an essential oil containing many valuable ingredients, incl. thujone, camphor, cineole, pinene, and bornel. In sage, we can also find flavonoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as tannins with antibacterial properties. In addition, the plant contains tannins, organic acids, carotene, resins, bitterness, and many vitamins and minerals. Among the most important are vitamins A, C, and B, as well as magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc, sodium and iron. This composition means that sage can help with many ailments.

Why is sage tea useful?

Чим корисний чай з шавлією?
Why is sage tea useful?

Due to the content of tannins, resin compounds and bitterness, sage stimulates the secretion of bile and digestive juices. Therefore, the use of sage infusion after meals will help improve digestion and facilitate the absorption of food. It has diastolic properties and prevents excessive fermentation, so it can relieve symptoms of gas and indigestion. The infusion is also recommended for gastroenteritis, diarrhea, nausea and food poisoning. Sage also improves liver function and supports the body’s detoxification processes. In addition, it lowers blood sugar levels, which is why it is recommended for people at risk of developing diabetes, as well as for people with early diabetes.

Sage for women’s problems

Sage infusion helps with many female ailments. It contains phytoestrogens and tannins, thanks to which it can regulate heavy menstruation and soothe associated pain. In case of menopause, it suppresses hot flashes and reduces the frequency of night sweats. It also prevents mood swings and helps fight insomnia. Sage infusion can also reduce lactation in women who are finishing their feeding period and in a food stress situation.

Sage for infections

The antibacterial and antifungal properties of sage make it useful in fighting infections. Sage infusion as a mouthwash can help with thrush, ulcers, mouth ulcers, and bleeding gums. It also soothes sore throat and tonsillitis. Due to its astringent and expectorant properties, it also helps to remove secretions that remain in the bronchi during upper respiratory tract infections.

Sage for excessive sweating

Drinking sage infusion can also help reduce excessive sweating, which can be caused by neurosis, fever, and overactive thyroid gland. Tannins and other substances in sage inhibit perspiration and bacterial growth. The infusion can take effect in 2-3 hours, and the effect can last for several days. It is also worth using sage infusion baths for sweating feet and hands.

Sage in cosmetics

Sage infusion can also have a positive effect on the condition of the skin. Thanks to its essential oils and flavonoids, it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, so it can help treat acne, acne, psoriasis and ringworm. It also slows down the aging process of the skin and prevents the formation of wrinkles.

How to prepare sage infusion and how to use it?

Як приготувати настій шавлії і як його використовувати?
How to prepare sage infusion and how to use it?

To prepare an infusion of sage, pour a tablespoon of chopped leaves with a glass of boiling water and let it brew under the lid for 15 minutes. At the end, it is enough to strain the liquid. Sage infusion can be drunk 1–3 times a day for half a glass. Use it in moderation and take for a maximum of two weeks. Sage can be toxic in excessive amounts and cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and dizziness. Sage infusion should not be used by pregnant women, as this can lead to miscarriage. Also, sage is not recommended for breastfeeding women, except in cases of food overload and inflammation of the mammary glands.