Sage is a silvery green shrub that has very fragrant leaves. The plant originally came from the Mediterranean, but can also be found growing in North America.
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Uses
Most people know sage as a seasoning for food or as an herb. However, sage essential oil can also be very beneficial for treatment of various medical ailments and conditions.
Benefits
Alzheimer’s Disease
One of the greatest benefits of sage oil is in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. According to the University of Michigan, one study showed that using sage oil supplement for four months significantly improved the cognitive functioning of Alzheimer’s patients. These particular patients were given 60 drops per day in a tincture of 1:1.
It is still unknown exactly how sage oil actually works to improve the cognitive functioning, but it is believed that the sage oil acts by helping the neurotransmitters in the brain to work better. However, more research is yet to be done to be sure of the exact way it benefits a person with Alzheimer’s.
Dental
Sage oil may also be quite beneficial for treating dental conditions like gingivitis. According to the University of Michigan Health System, sage oil has been combined with other oils such as peppermint, menthol, Echinacea, myrrh, clove, caraway and chamomile in mouthwash to successfully treat gingivitis. The herbal mixture should be taken with a half glass of water three times a day by slowly swishing it around in the mouth and then spitting it out. Once you have achieved your desired goal, you can continue to do this on a less infrequent basis to help maintain your gum health.
Skin Conditions
Another benefit of sage oil is that it can be used to treat some skin conditions. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a skin condition called erythema, which is marked by redness and rash, can be treated with sage oil. One study showed that sage oil had similar results to hydrocortisone in significantly reducing the symptoms of erythema. Another skin condition that can be treated by using sage oil is dandruff. According to Northwestern Health Sciences University, applying sage oil directly to the scalp can rid it of problematic dandruff.
Cautions
Being a nervous stimulant, those with epilepsy, hysteria, or a history of either, should avoid using it. Furthermore, since it contains camphor and camphene, which are toxic in nature, it should be avoided during pregnancy.
Interactions
None are recorded.
Other names
References
Source: LiveStrong, http://www.livestrong.com/article/97754-benefits-sage-oil/
OrganicFacts, http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/sage-essential-oil.html