Sage

Sage is available in a variety of forms, suited to different therapeutic needs and preferences for administration. Among the most commonly used are:

• Sage tea, made from the leaves or aerial parts of the plant, available as a dried herb in ranges such as Dacia Plant or AdNatura. 
• Sage capsules, for example Salvie 40 capsules (Favisan), used as a standardised dietary supplement.
• Sage tincture, such as Salvie Tincture 50 ml (Hofigal), obtained by macerating the leaves of Salvia officinalis in 70% ethyl alcohol.
• Sage oil, such as Solaris or Sabio essential oil.

Sage is recommended as an adjunct in a wide range of functional disorders and physiological imbalances. 

When taken internally, it supports the normal functioning of the digestive system, helping to relieve abdominal discomfort, bloating and gastrointestinal spasms. 

At a hormonal level, sage helps to reduce the unpleasant symptoms associated with the menopause, such as hot flushes, excessive sweating, nervousness or dizziness, playing an important role in maintaining women’s wellbeing. 

Thanks to its effects on the nervous system, sage is recommended for physical and mental fatigue, stress, mental overexertion and a decline in cognitive performance, including in older people. 

Externally, sage infusion or tincture is used to reduce excessive sweating, the risk of local bleeding, for oral hygiene and to protect the mucous membranes.

The administration of sage varies depending on the pharmaceutical form used and the concentration. 

Sage infusion is made by steeping one tablespoon of the plant in 250 ml of boiling water for 10–15 minutes; it is recommended to drink 2–3 cups a day on an empty stomach.

In the case of capsules, the usual dose is 1–2 capsules three times a day, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. 

Sage tincture should be taken in doses of 20–30 drops, three times a day, diluted in water.

The consumption of sage tea during pregnancy or breastfeeding is contraindicated due to its hormonal effects and thujone content. 

It is also contraindicated for people with known sage intolerance, epilepsy, high blood pressure, hormone-dependent conditions or kidney failure.

Sage should be used with caution in long-term treatments, observing the recommended rest periods. 

Due to its hypoglycaemic effects, sage requires careful monitoring in people with diabetes mellitus.

In general, sage is well tolerated, but excessive or prolonged use may cause gastric irritation, dryness of the mucous membranes, dizziness or allergic reactions. 

The thujone content means that the recommended doses must be adhered to.

Sage may enhance the effect of hypoglycaemic drugs and those with sedative properties. 

It may also interact with hormone therapies and anticonvulsants, which is why concurrent use should be discussed with a specialist.

Exceeding the recommended dose may cause significant gastrointestinal disturbances and, in severe cases, hepatotoxicity or convulsions.

In the event of accidental ingestion of high doses, urgent medical assessment is required.

Sage-based products should be stored in their original, tightly sealed packaging, away from direct light, excessive heat and moisture, to prevent the deterioration of the active ingredients and loss of therapeutic efficacy. 

It is recommended to store the product at temperatures below 25 °C, out of reach of children, and to observe the expiry date indicated by the manufacturer.

• WebMD, Sage
• PubMed, Sage: an analysis of its potential cognitive and protective effects
• Healthline, 12 health benefits and uses of sage
• PubMed, Acute and chronic cognitive effects of a sage extract: a randomised, placebo-controlled trial in healthy individuals