Salvia officinalis
Originally from the Mediterranean region, sage is a sub-shrub that was introduced to Eastern and Northern Europe in the Middle Ages, and to America in the 17th century. It is commercially cultivated in Albania, former Yugoslavia, Turkey, Greece, Italy, France, England, and America.
Sage essential oil is obtained by distilling the flowering tops and leaves. It contains phenolic and rosmarinic acids, flavonoids, salviole, as well as estrogenic principles.
This oil is traditionally used to reduce menopausal hot flashes, relieve respiratory infections and inflammation of the oral mucosa. It is also known to alleviate excessive sweating.
Identification
Label Name: Sage essential oil
Botanical Species: Salvia officinalis
Family: Lamiaceae
Part Used: Flowering tops
Extraction Method: Distillation
Origin: Spain
Main Components: Estrogen, borneol, salviole, cineole, salvone
Uses: Massages, inhalations, baths, diffusions, and compresses
Properties for External Use
- Astringent
- Healing
- Antiseptic
- Tonic, anti-rheumatic (baths)
Main Uses for External Use
- Ovarian disorders (hormonal ventral massage)
- Canker sores, stomatitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis, dental neuralgia
- Asthma
- Atonic wounds, ulcers
- Dermatoses (eczema)
Directions for Use
Spot Massage: Apply 3 to 4 drops of pure essential oil to the affected or treated area.
For Massage: To achieve a 5% dilution, ideal for massages, mix 5 ml of essential oil with 100 ml of vegetable oil, alcohol-free gel, cream, or virgin massage emulsion.
Inhalation: Apply 2 or 3 drops on a handkerchief and breathe for a few minutes. Stop if you feel any discomfort. Repeat as often as necessary OR boil water, remove from heat, pour into a dish, add a few drops of essential oil, cover your head with a towel and breathe gently.
In Bath: Add 15 drops of pure essential oil to water, bath foam, or a handful of sea salt.
Compresses: Add a few drops of oil to a bowl of very hot water. Dip a clean cloth in the water. Wring out and place the compress on the affected area. Repeat as often as necessary.
Essential Oil Diffusers: Add 10 to 15 drops to a diffuser of your choice. Duration: 10 to 15 minutes depending on the size of the room.
Recommendations and Precautions for Use
IMPORTANT: KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN AND PETS. KEEP AWAY FROM HEAT, FLAMES, AND LIGHT. FLAMMABLE.
Caution: People with a slow heart rate should avoid taking it. At high doses, this oil can cause seizures. Not recommended for epileptic individuals.
Avoid use during pregnancy as it can cause abortion, but can be very effective once labor is well advanced. Do not use during breastfeeding (anti-lactating).
