What is clary sage?

Clary sage is a perennial herb which grows up to 1 m in height. The stems of clary sage are square and covered with hairs. The green saw-toothed leaves are large at the base of the plant and small at the top. The small white or blue flowers are formed in violet coloured bracts. All parts of clary sage produce a typical sage aroma, which is more fragile than that of the common sage.

Parts used

The dried leaves of clary sage are mainly used. From the whole herband seeds essential oil are produced.

Phytochemicals

These are typical phytochemicals found in clary sage: clary sage contains essential oil which is rich in linalyl acetate and linalool. other phytochemicals which can be found in clary sage include myrcene, diterpene, sclareol, rosmarinic acid, flavonoids.

Benefits of clary sage

Clary sage has antiseptic, carminative and astringent action. Clary sage is traditionally used to treat digestive problems including gas formation, upset stomach and indigestion. Because of its antiseptic action clary sage is used to treat wounds.

Clary sage is also know to reduce menstrual problems and menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes). It seems that clary sage stimulates the action of estrogen.

Other facts

Clary sage originates from southern Europe and central Asia. It is often grown as a garden plant and is commercial cultivated in Asia and Europe. The clary sage oil is used in aromatherapy and is an ingredient for soaps, perfumes (such as eau-de-cologne) and some alcoholic beverages (such as vermouth).

Other names

Clary, Horminum, clear eye, see bright