Sage Advice - by Robin EH Bagley

Sage, Salvia officinalis, is one of the most omnipresent herbs in history. Originating in Syria, sage has an impressive collection of myths and lore, making it as much a part of history as many historical figures. Long used in religious ceremonies throughout the world, it became known as the Herb of Wisdom. Sage has a heady collection of mystical uses in addition to bringing wisdom, it also symbolized virtue, was used to attract money, to banish evil spirits and to purify one’s self or environment. Sage was sacred to the Romans and was grown in Charlemagne’s garden.

Taking its name from the Latin word salvare, “to heal or save,” sage has many medicinal qualities. Its antiseptic qualities helped fight infection, allowing wounds to heal. It also came in handy for disinfecting areas tainted by illness. Sage soothed sore throats and eliminated mucous, as well as helped with intestinal disorders and insect bites. Because of its myriad of healing powers, sage became associated with immortality. An old adage pondered whether a man could die if sage grew in his garden.

Sage’s history plays an important role in its aromatherapy uses. While rarely used on the body, sage is still burned, either as leaves or incense, to purify an environment, such as a building. Its oil is used for strength, cleansing, protection, and grounding. Sage oil blends well with several other clean-smelling oils such as citrus, juniper and hyssop.

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