The pungent smell of sage is one that may bring you memories of thanksgiving at Grandmas, or perhaps of high desert walks in the Southwest. This aromatic herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and with good reason.
Sage has anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, counter-irritant and antiseptic properties. This bitter herb stimulates the digestive system and improves the secretion of digestive enzymes.
But because it also has anti-spasmodic properties and reduces muscle tension, it can also be used effectively to treat asthma or other respiratory difficulties.
Perhaps the most wonderful attribute of sage is its effect on your memory. Thujone, contained in the essential oil of this plant, improves attention span, enhances concentration, and hones your senses.
A study published in the 2003 issue of Pharmacological Biochemcial Behavior showed that a 50 microl dose of sage oil significantly improved word recall in young adults.
Other researchers suggest it may mitigate mild Alzheimer’s disease in older patients. Acetylcholine is one of the brain’s chemical messengers, and a drop in its concentration is one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s. Sage inhibits the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine.
Sage has also been shown to be helpful to those suffering from diabetes type 2, by aiding in the regulation of blood sugar and cholesterol.
Benefits of Sage Include…
Improves your memory, concentration, and attention span: Thujone, a component of sage’s essential oil, can significantly enhance your cognitive skills.
Treats asthma and respiratory illnesses: Through anti-spasmodic action which relaxes the smooth muscle, sage can help greatly in an asthma attack. It also works to thin the mucus that builds up in a respiratory infection.
Regulates blood sugar: Sage works to keep the blood sugar concentrations within good limits.
Mitigates Alzheimer’s disease: Sage protects acetylcholine, a chemical messenger necessary to proper brain function.
Best Sage Juice Recipes
Want brain-power-boosting sage juice recipes you can try?
The Klever Sage
This is one herb-y green juice recipe you’ll want to try over and over again, with aromatic sage adding just the right amount of delicious flavoring to sweet pear and pH-balancing, acidic lime. Perfect for newbies to green juicing!
Memory Boost
A lovely, delicious-ly varied juice recipe guaranteed to fill you up and keep you energized and sharp throughout the day. Gentle enough to drink for breakfast and potent enough to power you through the mornings!
