Common sage, the Sun King's secret to longevity?

Common sage (Salvia officinalis, from the Latin "to heal") is a perennial aromatic plant native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has been known since antiquity for its medicinal and culinary properties.

Louis XIV, the Sun King, lived to be 77 years old (a canonical age for his time). His longevity is often attributed to his healthy lifestyle and his regular consumption of sage herbal teas.

History of common sage

Common sage was already used by the Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties. It was notably used to treat digestive disorders, skin problems, and infections. Sage was also used for its astringent and antioxidant properties.

In the Middle Ages, sage was considered a sacred plant. It was used for its purifying, protective properties, and also to perfume homes and clothes.

Even today, common sage is used for its medicinal and culinary virtues. A Provençal saying reminds us: "He who has sage in his garden needs no physician."

Sage is also used in aromatherapy and cosmetics.

Involvement in other traditional medicines

Sage is a plant that has been used in many cultures for its purifying properties in rituals. It is often burned as smudge to ward off bad vibes, purify the air, objects, and people.

In Native American culture, sage is known as the "truth plant" to purify the mind and body and to facilitate communication with spirits. It is then used in healing rituals.

In Chinese culture, sage is known as the "plant of immortality." It is used to purify vital energy and promote longevity. Sage is also used in traditional remedies to treat a variety of health problems, just like by the Greeks and Romans.

It has always been a precious ally for health and well-being.

Benefits and properties of common sage

Common sage has many health benefits. It is notably known for its properties:

• Astringent: fights inflammation and irritation of the skin and mucous membranes.
• Antioxidant: protects body cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Antibacterial and antifungal: fights bacteria responsible for many infections.
• Digestive: improves digestion and relieves digestive disorders such as bloating, flatulence, and stomach aches.
• Memory: helps improve memory and cognitive functions.
• Androgenic alopecia: When applied topically to the scalp, it can help treat certain forms of androgenic alopecia.

Women's ally

Sage is often considered a woman's plant, like raspberry, because it has many properties particularly beneficial for women's health.

• Menopause: relieves menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
• Amenorrhea: stimulates ovulation and regulates menstruation.
• Breastfeeding: can reduce breast milk production at the end of breastfeeding. Sage should therefore be avoided during breastfeeding.

What are the main uses of sage?

• Infusion: This is the most common way to consume sage. To make an infusion, simmer filtered water and pour it over a teaspoon of dried or fresh sage leaves. We offer recipes in this article.
• Gargling: Sage gargle is an effective remedy for sore throats and tonsillitis. To make a gargle, mix 1 teaspoon of dried or fresh sage leaves in a glass of hot water. Gargle for 30 seconds, then rinse your mouth with cold water.
• Cooking: Common sage can be used in cooking to flavor dishes. It pairs very well with grilled foods, meat, fish, as well as Mediterranean vegetables.
• Macerate: Sage macerate is a preparation based on olive oil and sage leaves. It is used to treat skin problems such as acne, cold sores, and chapped skin. To make a good macerate, mix 1 tablespoon of dried sage leaves in a cup of olive oil. Let it macerate for 2 weeks away from light, then filter.
• Smudging: Sage smoke is said to ward off bad vibes, purify the air, objects, and people.

Common sage in herbal tea

Sage herbal tea is a popular hot beverage known for its powerful aromatic profile with notes of thyme, sweet mint, and linden, as well as its many health benefits. It can be consumed hot or cold.

Recipe for hot organic sage herbal tea

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of dried organic common sage leaves
• 250 ml of filtered, simmering water

Preparation:

1. Pour the common sage leaves into a cup.
2. Pour the simmering water (80°C) over the sage leaves.
3. Let steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Filter the herbal tea and serve hot.

Recipe for cold organic sage herbal tea

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of dried organic common sage leaves
• 1 liter of cold water

Preparation:

1. Pour the common sage leaves into a water bottle.
2. Close the bottle and shake well.
3. Let infuse for 12 hours in the refrigerator.
   Ideally, prepare the day before for the next day.
4. Filter the herbal tea and serve cold.

Our opinion

This herbal tea is very pleasant to drink and has interesting aromatic notes of thyme, sweet mint, and linden. Perfect to accompany your cozy evenings or relaxation moments. We use this organic French sage to prepare our Cantatrice recipe.

Conclusion

Common sage is a plant with multiple health benefits. It can be consumed as herbal tea, like the Sun King did, powder, essential oil, or capsules. Common sage is an excellent ally for your health.

Relaxation tip: Before a yoga or meditation session, burn a few sage leaves to properly prepare the space and enhance your mental stimulation.