|
|
|
|
|
Healthy Way: Issue 10 > Sage – Not Just during menopause! |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Menopause Feminine
|
|
Sage – Not Just during menopause!
by Josée Fortin, ND
In ancient times, sage was considered to be a sacred herb. The Greeks and Romans valued its medicinal properties, believing that it helped prolong life. Native to the Mediterranean region, Sage is one of our common kitchen herbs.
We have long known about Sage’s ability to reduce hot flashes. The tannins in Sage have an astringent effect, drying excessive skin (perspiration) and throat (mucus) secretions. Thankfully, the astringent action is particularly effective for sore throats, as it reduces irritation and inflammation of the mucus membranes of the throat and digestive tract. Tannins also prevent the growth of bacteria by depriving them of elements that are necessary to their development.
Sage extract also contains an essential oil that has antiseptic, antifungal and antiinflammatory properties. The combined action of the tannins and the essential oil makes Sage particularly effective in fighting sore throats and tonsillitis. It is the perfect remedy for soothing throat irritations in people who use their voices a great deal in their work, such as teachers, lecturers and singers.
Sage should not be used by people suffering from epilepsy or by nursing mothers (it may dry up breast milk). It should not be taken at the same time as mineral supplements (such as iron, calcium and magnesium), as it can affect their absorption by the body. Wait at least four hours after taking mineral-rich supplements before taking sage.
Sage is recognized for its excellent medicinal properties. It is carminative (relieves flatulence), antispasmodic, antiinflammatory, astringent and antimicrobial. It contains, among other elements, tannins, bitter principal, steroids, flavonoids and essential oils rich in terpenes.
|
|
|
|
In ancient times, sage was considered to be a sacred herb. The Greeks and Romans valued its medicinal properties, believing that it helped prolong life. Native to the Mediterranean region, Sage is one of our common kitchen herbs.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
