Sage - Herb Uses |
WARNING - This herb contains "thujone", a hallucinogenic, addictive, and toxic compound when taken in excess. Thujone is found in Sage Oil.
Culinary (eaten)
Traditionally used to flavour stuffing, breads and meats.
Infusion (like a tea)
Pour near-boiling water over the herb and let steep 5-10 minutes. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water. The Infusion must be taken same day. It may be sweetened, but do not add milk. This is the best method for leaves.
Used for treating Anxiety, Depression, Fever (especially when combined with Yarrow), Flatulence, Indigestion, Stomach Upset, Liver Complaints, Liver Tonic (especially when combined with Yarrow), and Menopausal Complaints
Cold Infusion (called a Maceration, like a cold tea)
A Cold Infusion is recommended if certain properties of the herb may be damaged by heating. Steep the herb in water for 12 hours or more, strain and use. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water.
Used for treating Excess Lactation, Excess Perspiration, Excess Salivation, and Night Sweats
Decoction (like a broth)
Simmer the herb for 10 minutes and strain. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water. The Decoction may be stored for a short period.
Used as a hair rinse for all types of hair and to darken greying hair (add approximately 4 tsp of used tea leaves to the decoction)
Simmer the herb for 15-30 minutes and strain. Standard quantities are 75g fresh or 30g dried herb to 500ml water. The Decoction is best used on the same day but may be stored for a short period.
Used as an extremely powerful antiseptic
Poultice
A Poultice consists of a pulp or paste made by heating chopped fresh, dried, or powdered herbs with a little water. Spread the paste between two layers of gauze and apply (as hot as possible) externally to the affected area. Replace as necessary.
Used for treating Spider Bites and Jellyfish Stings
Compress
An alternative to a poultice, a Compress is made by soaking a clean cloth in a hot unsweetened Infusion or Decoction and applying externally to the affected area.
Used for treating Varicose Veins
Sage - Plant Information |
