Sage Aerial Parts Extract
Also known as: Sage, Garden Sage, Salvia officinalis
Overview
Sage, scientifically known as Salvia officinalis, is a perennial herb indigenous to the Mediterranean region. Widely recognized for both its culinary and medicinal applications, sage derives from its aerial parts which include leaves and flowers used for creating various extracts. Key components such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenes like thujone lend sage its therapeutic properties. Traditionally, sage is employed for enhancing cognitive function, supporting digestive health, and easing menopausal symptoms. While there exists a moderate quantity of clinical research, the evidence base showcases variability and indicates a need for further comprehensive exploration. Nevertheless, systematic reviews have offered glimpses into sage's efficacy regarding specific health conditions.
Benefits
Sage extracts are particularly noted for alleviating hot flushes in menopausal women. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 310 patients established potential benefits, although a robust quantification of effect sizes remains elusive. Besides its primary applications, sage exhibits secondary effects, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may confer additional health benefits. The population most likely to benefit consists of menopausal women, particularly in relation to hot flush frequency and intensity. Despite encouraging preliminary findings, further high-quality research is imperative to validate these benefits and clarify the effectiveness of sage in alleviating cognitive decline and other ailments.
How it works
The bioactive compounds in sage, such as thujone, may engage with neurotransmitter systems, influencing hormone regulation and potentially impacting cognitive function and hormonal balance. Through its antioxidant properties, sage may help protect cells from oxidative damage, thereby supporting brain health and hormonal stability. However, specific molecular targets and detailed pathways are not yet clearly defined, warranting additional investigation into the mechanisms underlying its health effects.
Side effects
Sage is generally recognized as safe when employed correctly; however, certain side effects may occur. Common adverse effects include gastrointestinal upset and allergic reactions. Rare instances of seizures associated with high doses containing thujone have been reported. It is essential to consider drug interactions, particularly with anticoagulants and diabetes medications, that could heighten the risk of side effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid sage, given its potential hormonal effects. Additionally, individuals with epilepsy or those on specific medications are advised to use caution when incorporating sage into their regimen.
Dosage
While optimal dosage for sage varies depending on individual health conditions, a general guideline suggests a range of 300-600 mg of dried sage leaf per day. Minimum effective doses have not been firmly established, and dosage should be tailored to the specific therapeutic aims. Due to limited data on maximum safe dose parameters, caution is advised as high doses might elevate the risk of adverse effects. Common forms of sage include capsules and teas, but the bioavailability could vary based on the extraction and preparation methods used.
FAQs
How can I use sage supplements?
Sage can be taken as a tea or in capsule form. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplements, especially if you have health conditions or take medications.
Is sage safe for everyone?
While generally safe, high doses should be avoided due to potential thujone content. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
What timing is best for taking sage?
No specific timing recommendations exist; sage can be consumed at any convenient time.
What benefits should I expect from sage?
Users report possible improvements in cognitive function and reduced menopausal symptoms, though results can vary.
Is sage a cure for cognitive decline?
While sage has potential cognitive benefits, it is not a guaranteed cure for cognitive decline. Individual results may differ significantly.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/29/1/94 – This systematic review assesses the efficacy of Salvia officinalis in reducing hot flushes among menopausal women, highlighting the potential benefits and identifying the need for more robust studies.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/14/3/1028 – An investigation into the phytochemical profiles of sage extracts, indicating significant levels of polyphenols and flavonoids which could contribute to various health benefits.
- https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/Sage.pdf – Overview of safety and efficacy data related to sage, including identified risks associated with high doses, particularly regarding thujone.
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