Sage (sago in tagalog)

(Salvia officinalis) Part used: Leaves. Properties: Antispasmodic, astringent, anthelmintic, aromatic, vulnerary. What it affects: Bowels, sinuses, bladder, mucous membranes, and nerves.

Preparation and amount: Infusion (leaves): Steep 5-15 min. Take 1 Tbsp. as needed or 1-2 cups daily, hot or cold. Tincture: Take 20-60 drops 3-4 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 1/4 - 1 tsp. 3-4 times daily. Powder: Take 2-5 #0 capsules (10-30 grains) 3-4 times daily.

Purposes: Internally, sage’s best-known effect is its ability to reduce perspiration, which will begin about 2 hours after it is taken. The effect may last several days. This makes it useful in treating night sweats which often occur in tuberculosis. A nursing mother, whose child has been weaned, can take sage for a few days, to help stop the flow of milk. It also reduces salivation and decreases secretions of the lungs, sinuses, throat and mucous membranes. It also helps eliminate mucous congestion in the respirator passages and the stomach.

• Sage tea is good for stomach troubles, diarrhea, gas, dysentery, colds, and flus. It is good for hot flashes other symptoms of estrogen deficiency, whether in menopause or following hysterectomy. It will expel worms in children and adults. It is used for nervous conditions, trembling, depression, and vertigo. It is used for inflamed throat and tonsils, laryngitis, and tonsillitis.

• Sage tea can be combined with equal parts of peppermint, rosemary, and wood betony for a very helpful headache remedy. It is used for leucorrhea, dysmenorrheal, and amenorrhea. As an astringent, it is used for diarrhea, gastritis, and enteritis.

Externally, sage tea is an excellent gargle when combined with freshly squeezed lemon juice and honey for all amount diseases. It is a good wash for wounds that are slow to heal. It is a useful hair rinse to eliminate dandruff, stimulate hair growth, and promote shine in the hair. As a gargle, the tea is good for laryngitis, tonsillitis, and sore throat. Crushed, fresh sage leaves can be used as first aid for insect bites.

Warning: Extended or excessive use of sage can cause symptoms of poisoning.