1. Sage seeds are a superfood

There are over 800 different varieties of sage; most of them come from South America, North America and the Near East. There’s one particular part of the sage plant that everyone’s talking about these days: chia. Chia seeds are actually the seeds of a type of sage called ‘salvia hispanica’. They’re considered a ‘superfood’ because they’re full of antioxidants, as well as calcium, potassium, iron, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

2. Sage gives you fresh breath

Before modern toothpaste was invented, people used to wrap a sage leaf around their index finger and rub it over their teeth and gums. This would kill bacteria, remove plaque, strengthen the gums and freshen the breath. Perfect for when you’ve left your toothpaste at home!

3. Sage eases cold symptoms

Got a cold? The anti-inflammatory properties of sage can help! We recommend brewing a simple sage tea with honey and lemon juice. The honey coats the oesophagus, therefore protecting the irritated areas, while the vitamin C in the lemon boosts the immune system. You can either drink the tea or gurgle it. It’s a very soothing remedy for coughs and sore throats, as well as inflammation of the gums, tonsils, pharynx or larynx and any other cold symptoms.

4. Sage eases symptoms of menstruation and menopause

Struggling with menstrual cramps, hot flushes or weaning problems? Many women have found that a cup of sage tea can provide some relief from these issues. This is because sage naturally reduces cramps and perspiration.

5. Sage can help with weight loss

Sage contains key tannins and bitter compounds. These help to regulate digestion, boost the metabolism and shift excess weight.

6. Sage is pleasantly cooling

You can also apply sage externally. A refreshing foot bath with sage leaves can cool you down and prevent excessive sweating – perfect for summertime!

7. Sage soothes insect bites and stings

There’s a simple home remedy to treat irritating bites from mosquitoes and horseflies or stings from bees and wasps. Simply rub a sage leaf between your fingers and apply the juice to the bite or sting. Alternatively, you can also place whole fresh leaves on the bite or sting and then cover it with a cloth. After about two hours, the itchiness should be gone.

8. Sage helps with cold sores

First aid for cold sores and skin blemishes! Take advantage of sage’s antibacterial properties by dabbing a little sage tincture onto the affected areas. This will get rid of the irritating symptoms quickly and gently.