Sage is an annual herb that is in season from May to mid November in Missouri. It has soft, gray/green leaves and has a savory taste.
Health Benefits
- Antioxidant power: rosmarinic acid (a polyphenol) is easily absorbed in the digestive tract and reduces inflammation.
- Flavonoids, phenolic acids, and enzymes in sage work together to decrease oxidative (damage) to cells.
- Recommended for those with inflammatory issues such as arthritis, bronchial asthma, and atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries).
- Memory enhancement: studies have shown increase in cognitive function and recall. Use of sage is also being studied as a therapeutic treatment for Alzheimer’s.
- Digestive health: sage can help treat bloating, diarrhea, heartburn, and stomach pain.
- Sage essential oil is used as an antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, disinfectant, laxative and stimulating substance. It can also assist in treatment of dermatitis, herpes, psoriasis asthma, and bronchitis, and sciatic nerve pain, and promote mental focus.
SELECTION & STORAGE
- Sage is available in most markets in dried or fresh form (organic and fresh is best!).
- Select fresh sage that does not have bruising, yellowing, or signs of rot.
- Store fresh sage by wrapping leaves in a slightly damp paper towel in a plastic bag for 5-7 days.
- Store dried sage in an airtight glass container in a cool, dark environment for up to 6 months.
How to Use
- Sage is a wonderful aromatic herb to use in colder months. Use as a rub along with salt and pepper for red and white meat and fish.
- Use in vegetable side dishes with squash, tomatoes, beans, olives, etc.
- Dry fresh sage and cup finely to make tea for sore throats.
- Make sage butter to use with pasta (like gnocchi) or with chicken.
- Dab sage essential oil to pressure points to improve mood, add to bath water for sore joints.