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Sage is a powerful ally in your skin and hair care, but also in your well-being.
Since I love fun facts, I’ll start with these. The Arabs, therefore, used to say the proverb “Whoever has sage in his garden, does not need a doctor” . The French call sage “the tea of Greece”, because it is widespread in our country, where twenty different species are recorded, mainly in the sunny south, in the Peloponnese and the islands.
Hippocrates, Dioscorides and Galen praised sage for its rich antioxidant, antibiotic, antimicrobial and astringent properties . The ancient Greeks considered it a sacred plant, while the Egyptians gave women sage to increase their fertility.
Sage is the first herb you think of when you have a cold , while its intense aroma and strong and spicy taste are the star of many cuisines around the world.
Of course, it also has a cosmetic use , either in product formulations or as an (essential) oil, decoction or dried. I read somewhere that they used to chew it to clean their teeth, which doesn’t surprise me since sage is a common ingredient in natural toothpastes.
What can sage do?
1. Stimulates cell renewal
Rich in vitamin A and calcium, sage oil stimulates the cell renewal process and delays the appearance of wrinkles. Thanks to its strong antioxidant action, it acts as a shield against free radicals, which cause oxidative stress and premature aging. The oil is applied to the skin locally and always diluted with a vegetable oil .
2. It has multiple benefits in haircare
Sage contributes to good scalp health , strengthens weak and brittle hair and reduces dandruff. Frequent bathing with sage decoction also helps with hair loss.
3. Treats cellulite
The oil stimulates blood circulation, helping to eliminate toxins and, by extension, reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Massaging with a body butter with clary sage oil releases trapped toxins and breaks down the swollen fat cells responsible for the appearance of cellulite. The application must be repeated several times during the week. Alternatively, you can put 1-2 drops on the bathroom sponge along with some neutral organic shower gel and massage gently.
4. Fights acne
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action, it is ideal for oily, acne-prone skin, to which it offers deep cleansing.
Put leaves (after washing them well) or 1-2 drops of sage essential oil in a pot to boil. After cleansing the face with a mild product, get ready for a steam bath. Steam opens pores to release acne-causing bacteria and sebum. After carefully removing the pot from the heat, lean over the pot where the sage is boiling, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam, and stay for 8-10 minutes.
You can also dissolve 2-3 drops of essential oil in 10 ml of vegetable oil or in some neutral organic face cream and apply to the area with the pimples.
5. It calms and relaxes
Sage works against anxiety and depression, as it helps you relax.
Dissolve 4-6 drops in organic vegetable oil (olive oil, almond oil) and massage the temples, wrists and soles of the feet.
Also, fill the tub with your favorite bubble bath, add 10-12 drops of clary sage essential oil and soak… for hours.
6. Rests the feet
Sage stimulates blood circulation, stimulates and revitalizes tired muscles, relieves cramps, relaxes and has a deodorizing effect.
When you come home exhausted from work, put 6-8 drops of clary sage essential oil in a bowl of water and put your tired and sore feet in it to rest.
7. Fragrances the space
Sage creates an environment of calm and relaxation. Drip 1-2 drops of essential oil in an aromatherapy device, to pleasantly scent your space.
8. Favors oral hygiene
Thanks to its antimicrobial action, it is ideal for the oral cavity that has problems with gingivitis and canker sores.
Make a mouthwash by putting 1-2 sage leaves in half a liter of water. After boiling, cover the decoction until it cools. Then gargle for 5-10 minutes and repeat as many times as you like throughout the day.
9. Soothes mosquito and wasp bites
Rub sage leaves on the irritated area and you will feel immediate relief.
