Sage is a herb that is found in most kitchen spice racks. If you haven't used it before, you really should try it and see what you have been missing. This herb/spice is fabulous for meat and fish dishes as well as having several medicinal properties.
Sage's best known effect is the reduction of perspiration, which usually begins about two hours after taking sage tea or tincture and may last for several days. This makes it excellent for night sweats. A nursing mother whose child has been weaned can take sage tea for a few days to help stop the flow of milk. The tea has also been used for nervous conditions, trembling, depression, and vertigo. As a gargle, the tea is good for laryngitis, tonsillitis and as a breath freshener. It also helps to eliminate mucous congestion common with a cold virus. Finally, crushed fresh sage leaves can be used as first aid for insect bites. CAUTION: excessive use of sage cause symptions of poisoning.
Sage Tea
2 tsp dried sage leaves 1 cup boiling water Pour boiling water over dried leaves and allow to steep for 5 minutes. Strain leaves and drink hot. Sweeten with honey if desired.
Insect Bite Oil
1 tsp sage oil 1 tbsp vegetable oil Combine sage oil with vegetable oil and dab mixture directly on bite as needed. Store excess in a bottle with a tight lid.
Sage Massage Oil
2 ounces vegetable oil 12 drops sage oil Combine ingredients. Massage into lower belly a few times a day. (This is helpful for heavy menstrual cycles.)
Sage Gargle
1 cup boiling water 2 tsp dried sage leaves salt Pour boiling water over sage leaves, cover and steep 20 minutes. Strain and add salt. Gargle as needed. Stored in the refrigerator, this mixture will keep for a few days.
Sage Pesto
1/2 cup frsh sage leaves 1 1/2 cups frsh parsley leaves 2 lrg garlic cloves 1/2 cup grtd parmesan cheese 1/2 cup walnuts 1/2 cup olive oil Salt and freshly grnd pepper to taste. Combine sage, parsley, garlic, cheese and nuts in a food processor. Process to mix. Continue mixing and add olive oil. Season to taste with salt & pepper. Let stand for 15 minutes before serving.
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