There are many varieties of sage that are used in a variety of recipes as well as medicine cabinets that have one thing in common - the smell of Thanksgiving dinner being cooked. However, you will find that there are some varieties of sage that are very different in taste. Any one wishing to use sage would be wise to either grow their own or buy it from a reputable source, wild sage is not palletable.

In Arabia sage was associated with immortality and credited with increasing the mental capacity of those who chewed on its leaves. The Latin meaning of the name is salvation. It has been used as an antidote for snake bites to the first toothbrush.

Sage is native to the Mediterranean coast. Today in Yugoslavia it is still harvested much like hay is here in the US. The volatile oils and tannins in sage are used in homeopathic deodorants. Many homeopathic physicians still say that it is the best remedies for laryngitis, tonsillitis, and sore throats. Using a teaspoon of the dried leaves in a cup of boiling water steeped and cooled can be used as a gargle. It can also be sweetened with honey and drank as a tea. It is a mild laxative when used as a tea and can stimulate the menstrual flow. Women who are pregnant should not drink the tea.

Some recent research on sage has shown that the tea infusion drank daily has lowered blood sugars in diabetics. This claim is still being researched.

There are different variations of sage. The above medicinal properties are of sage (Salvia officinalis - common garden). Another variety of sage called Teucrim scorodonia or wood sage is defined by the yellow flowers rather than the traditional purple reddish flowers known more commonly as sage.

The wood sage is also used medicinally, although the flavoring is much stronger the dried herb tea infusion has been used to improve appetite, stimulate the female cycle, and produce sweating in fever colds.

Both types of sage can be used in poultices for external use to heal wounds, boils and ulcers.

Sage that has blue flowers is used only for ornamental value; as are the clary sage which has lilac and pink flowers. The pineapple sage which also has lavender flowers are distinguishable by the defined pineapple scent and are used only in culinary and craft areas.

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