Sage|

[Onyxaeon]

Sage is an evergreen that grows to about 80cm. It has mauve-blue flowers in summer, and there are many varieties of sage. Sage is used to aid in the digestion of fatty meats, and is popular in poultry stuffings. Tea from its leaves is an antiseptic, nerve, and blood tonic. Can be used in combination with wintergreen and willow for a headache tea as well. Some teas from it reduce sweating and sooth coughs and colds. It contains hormone precursors that help irregular menstruation and menopause symptoms. One could burn sage on embers or boil it in water to disinfect a room. Sage smoke also deodorizes animal and cooking smells. Rub fresh leaves on teeth to whiten them, or use in a mouthwash. Clary sage seed infused in water may be used to remove foreign matter from eyes painlessly. The leaves of sage help combat diarrhea, as well.

Warnings: Sage should not be taken in large doses over long periods. Avoid large doses during pregnancy.