Medicinal plant

Sage

Salvia officinalis

An astringent aromatic leaf for digestion and a sore throat. Also called Garden Sage, Common Sage.

An astringent, aromatic leaf traditionally used as a digestive bitter and, cooled, as a gargle or mouth rinse for a sore or irritated throat.

Properties

Astringent — Tightens and tones tissues; often drying

Aromatic — Rich in aromatic oils that often support digestion or breathing

Carminative — Helps relieve gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort

Energetics
Warming Drying Toning
Sage (Salvia officinalis), historical botanical illustration

Growing and using it

Life cycle

Woody perennial; cold-hardiness depends on drainage and winter conditions.

What to buy

Common garden sage (Salvia officinalis) seed or a straight-species nursery plant.

Best way to start

Nursery plant, cutting, or seed.

Seed starting

Start indoors about 6–8 weeks before the last frost, or buy a nursery plant for a faster first harvest.