by Greg Spinks

Created on: October 05, 2009   Last Updated: October 08, 2009

In the old days, people used sage, to treat snake bites and just about any other ailment known. Sage today, however, is more important in the kitchen, instead of a medicine pouch. But since the days of the old Roman Empire, other life-saving cures for snake venom have been discovered, thankfully.

Sage for centuries was grown and respected as a potent herbal medicine. It was used as sort of a cure-all and used to treat just about anything that could ail a human body and mind. The generic name for sage, Salvia means health or salvation; garden sage, the herb commonly grown and used for cooking today, is Salvia officinalis, not to be confused with the hundreds of other salvia family plants.

Sage officinalis is frequently used as a mouth wash or gargle for sore throats and to control excessive sweating. Research indicates the herb does have some anti-bacterial properties. Like most herbs, sage can be brewed as tea, and is reputed to help coughing and nervousness.

Sage, the salvation herb, with it's silver green leaves, is an attractive addition in landscaping and in the vegetable garden. Perennial, sage is hardy and can withstand cold winter weather. The herb is not bothered by damaging insect pests, which seem to just leave it alone.

Sage is a salvation herb for our most important pollinators. Sage has purple to blue flowers which are irresistible to numerous species bees, including the important honeybee. The flowers are a source of rich pollen and nectar for the bees. In some regions, sage honey is highly regarded for taste and health.

Sage is a good herb for container gardening and snakes generally aren't found around container gardens. The plant will generally only grow about a foot or slightly larger and requires no extra particular care. It does appreciate full sun and well drained soil, as do most container herbs and plants.

It's important to make sure the container has drainage holes in the bottom. Sage does not do well when water soaked. Clay containers work well but tend to dry out quicker; a layer of mulch will help to reduce watering needs. Mulch in plastic containers is also helpful in retaining soil moisture.

Sage can be easily grown from seed either indoors or outside. Once the seeds are planted and covered slightly, keep moist and in a sunny location. Depending on weather and environmental conditions, the seeds will germinated in about a week; as with most plants, keep the seedlings well watered and provide a lot of light if growing indoors.

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