Sage essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and has a number of health benefits. It should not be confused with clary sage oil, which has different uses.
The name of the plant comes from the Latin word that means “to heal,” and the plant is a native to the Mediterranean area of Europe.
The oil is extracted from the leaves of the plant by a process of steam distillation.
Sage oil has similar benefits to rosemary oil and blends well with rosemary.
It can also be used with lavender, tea tree, and neroli essential oils.
Common sage oil has a number of medicinal benefits including:
- Helping relieve the symptoms of menstrual problems, including regulating periods and improving fertility levels. It has a stimulating effect on estrogen production. It can also help to relieve the symptoms brought on by periods such as headaches and mood swings.
- Relieving the symptoms of the menopause in a similar way to helping menstruation.
- Sage oil is a natural pain reliever and can be used in a massage oil to help sufferers of arthritis and rheumatism. It has anti-inflammatory properties which can also help to soothe an irritated digestive system.
- The oil can encourage the production of bile, which can improve the functioning of the digestive system.
- It has antiseptic and antibacterial properties which can be used to treat and prevent infection. Sage essential oil is often found as an ingredient in skin care products. It is beneficial for scarring and reducing the appearance of stretch marks. The oil should never be applied undiluted to the skin and should always be diluted in carrier oil, skin cream, or bathwater.
- It can be beneficial when suffering from skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis.
- The oil is a natural antifungal so can be used on conditions such as athlete’s foot. The easiest way to make use of the oil for skin conditions such as this is to add a few drops to bathwater.
- It is a natural diuretic which can help the body to rid itself of excess fluid and toxins. The antioxidant properties of the oil can help to fight the free radicals in the body which lead to symptoms of aging.
- Sage essential oil is a natural expectorant and can help to keep the airways clear from excess mucus when suffering from colds and infections of the respiratory system.
- The stimulating effects of the oil can help to keep mental alertness and combat fatigue. It is beneficial for combating depression. Using the oil in a vaporizer or adding a few drops to bathwater are effective methods for these problems.
Side Effects of Sage Essential Oil
Sage oil should be used with care and preferably under the supervision of a qualified aromatherapist, as it is more toxic than clary sage.
It should not be used by those who are pregnant because of the stimulating effect it has on the uterus and the reproductive system. Epilepsy sufferers should avoid using sage oil.
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HERBAL ENCYCLOPEDIA OF REMEDIES