9 Emerging Benefits and Uses of Sage Tea

Benefits of Sage Leaf

Safe leaf is loaded with antioxidants, and it is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. These leaves are also rich in zinc, copper, magnesium, and essential vitamins like A, C, E, and K. An interesting point about sage leaves is that they contain about 160 varieties of polyphenols. Apart from protecting the body against inflammation, it can also be used for the following —

• Improving dental health, thanks to its anti-microbial properties

• Providing relief from PMS (premenstrual syndrome) symptoms

• Regulating blood sugar levels

• Improving overall cognitive function

• Providing calmness and reducing symptoms of depression

Benefits of Sage Tea

Although detailed and scientific research is needed to prove sage tea benefits, the active compounds and antioxidants in the leaves may help with the following —

1. Anti-inflammatory Effects

Sage tea protects the body against the oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Sage has compounds like carnosol and camphor that may reduce inflammation & inflammation-related issues and improve overall bone health, circulation of blood, and blood clotting issues.

2. It may improve skin health

Camphor, found in sage tea and sage leaves, is known to provide immense benefits to your skin. Consuming this tea can enhance skin health, reduce wrinkles, and make you look younger. The carnosol and carnosic acid found in sage aid in recovery from damage due to over-exposure to sun and inflammation.

3. It may help in dental health

The rosmarinic acid in sage tea can help to bring overall improvement in your oral health. It is used to treat bad breath, gum inflammation, sore throats, mouth ulcers, and more. For its anti-microbial properties, sage is also used extensively in many mouthwashes today.

4. It may protect against certain forms of carcinoma

Animal and test-tube studies show that camphor, carnosol, carnosic acid, and rosmarinic acid found in sage leaves can reduce your risk of certain cancers, like thyroid cancer while promoting the growth of healthy cells and preventing the genetic changes that cause the formation of cancer cells.

5. Regulation of blood sugar levels

The anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants present in sage tea help in playing a significant role in regulating your blood sugar levels. Studies show that consuming about 500mg of sage (in any form) daily lowers blood sugar levels (fasting and postprandial).

6. It may improve overall functioning of the brain

A significant benefit of sage leaf is that it improves overall cognitive functioning and makes you more alert. In alternative medical treatments, sage plays a vital role in improving memory, regulating mood swings, and preventing the risk of brain degeneration ailments like Alzheimer’s. Studies show that even the aroma of the sage leaf could significantly improve memory and focus.

7. It may help in women’s health

According to studies, taking a sage pill daily provides immense relief from PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and menopause symptoms. In many traditional treatments, sage is used to reduce the breast milk supply in women looking to wean off their babies.

8. Improvement in overall cardiac health

Foods rich in antioxidants eventually help in protecting your heart health. Sage tea is no exception to this rule. According to studies, consuming 300ml of sage tea twice a day helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and improves good cholesterol (HDL). It also helps to improve the triglycerides level in your body, thereby reducing your risk of cardiac ailments, such as heart attacks and strokes.

9. Easy incorporation

Sage tea packets are easily available in grocery stores. You can use fresh/dried sage leaves for preparing tea. Even if you are not a huge fan of this tea, you can grind the sage leaves and use them in small quantities in dishes cooked as part of your everyday meals.

You can prepare sage tea just like green tea. Steep the tea bag or sage leaves in boiling water for 5 to 10 minutes. Strain the water before drinking. You can add a spoonful of any natural sweetener and lemon juice for added taste and flavour.

However, remember that sage should be consumed daily in very small quantities as it contains thujone, a chemical that can cause damage to the nervous system and liver and seizures. You can consume sage tea in moderation (i.e., 3-6 cups or 4-6 grams per day).