CLARY SAGE (SALVIA SCLAREA)

Clary sage is a perennial or biennial herb with large hairy green leaves with a hint of purple. The flowers are small and blue growing out from large pinkish bracts. Branches of these bracts radiate in pairs from a spectacular central stem often reaching 1.5 meters in height. Other members of the Sage family include Garden sage (S. Officinalis) and Spanish sage (S. Lavendulaefolia)

It is native to Southern Europe and is cultivated in the Mediterranean region, Russia, USA, England, Morocco and Central Europe. The French, English and Moroccan sage, are considered to be of the best quality for perfumery work.

It is believed that the word 'Clary' is derived from the Latin 'clarus' meaning clear. It was called 'Clear eye' in the Middle Ages, since it was known for its ability to heal eye problems. It was also used for digestive disorders, kidney disease, uterine and menstrual complaints, for cleansing ulcers and as a general nerve tonic. The mucilage, (gum like secretion) from the seeds, was used for treating tumours and for removing dust particles from the eyes. Like garden sage, it cools inflammation and is especially useful for throat and respiratory infections.

Extraction

The flowering tops of the plant and the leaves are used and the oil is extracted by steam distillation. A concrete and absolute are also produced by solvent extraction in small quantities.

The oil is a colourless or pale yellow/green liquid with a saturating nutty, sweet, and heady aroma. The oil blends well with juniper, lavender, geranium, sandalwood, cedarwood, pine, jasmine, frankincense, bergamot and other citrus oils. It has antispasmodic qualities and serves as an effective relaxant and sedative. In addition, the oil is antibacterial, anticonvulsive, antiseptic, astringent, cholesterol reducing and cicatrisant.

Uses

Emotional: The oil has uplifting qualities making it suitable for the treatment of depression, anxiety, tension and mental fatigue. The oil may also prove effective in the treatment of migraine and stress related disorders.

Respiratory: The calming and anti-inflammatory qualities can help to relieve sore throats and hoarseness.

Skin: The soothing qualities make sage useful for all skin inflammations including boils and acne and it can help to preserve moisture in dry skin. Benefits have also been shown in treating hair loss and dandruff.

Circulatory: The calming effect of clary sage can help to relieve high blood pressure.

Gynecological: It can help to relieve P.M.S. and menstrual pain and help to establish menstrual regularity. Sage can also help to soothe swollen breasts and prevent hot flushes.

Digestive: Sage can have a calming influence on colic, cramp and dyspepsia.

Other Uses

The Oil and the absolute are used as fragrance components. The oil is also used by the food and drink industry, especially in the production of wines with a Muscatel flavour. German wine makers have used clary sage to improve the flavour of inexpensive wine.

Safety precautions

Avoid it use during pregnancy and use cautiously in conjunction with HRT. Alcohol should be avoided after use as the combination may induce a narcotic effect which exaggerates drunkenness.

Note : Top Note