The health benefits of sage leaves have been known for hundreds of years. Thanks to its nutritional content, this leaf has been used for generations as a traditional medicine throughout the world. To find out more about the benefits of sage leaves, let's look at the following article.
Sage leaves (Salvia officinalis) are generally used as a cooking ingredient because of their strong and distinctive aroma. Not only used as a kitchen spice, the leaves which are still in the same family as mint leaves can also be used as herbal medicine because they contain various natural compounds in them.
Sage leaf extract can also be processed and used as aromatherapy and as an ingredient in cosmetic products.
Nutritional Content of Sage Leaves
Due to its strong aroma, sage is usually only used in small amounts. In 1 teaspoon or about 1 gram of sage leaves, there are 2 calories and various nutrients as follows:
- Fiber
- Carbohydrate
- Proteins
- Vitamins, especially vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin K
- Minerals, including iron, calcium, and manganese
Sage leaves also contain various natural compounds that act as antioxidants, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and painkillers, such as luteolin, polyphenols, flavonoids, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, and ellagic acid.
Various Benefits of Sage Leaves for Health
Thanks to its nutritional and antioxidant content in it, sage leaves can provide various health benefits for the body. Following are some of the benefits:
1. Maintain healthy teeth and mouth
Sage leaves contain antimicrobial properties that are useful in preventing the formation of dental plaque. A study showed that gargling with a mouthwash based on sage leaves can kill the bacteria that cause plaque and cavities.
Not only that but sage leaves are also believed to treat infections in the gums and throat.
2. Lower blood sugar levels
Not only insulin leaves, but sage leaves are also useful for lowering blood sugar levels and keeping them stable. In addition, this leaf is also able to improve the function of insulin in maintaining blood sugar levels. It's no wonder that sage leaves are even called almost similar to anti-diabetic drugs.
Therefore, sage leaves can be used to prevent and treat diabetes. To be able to enjoy the benefits of this sage leaf, you can consume it in the form of tea.
However, if you are undergoing diabetes treatment, you should first consult a doctor before using sage leaves as herbal medicine.
3. It has a relaxing effect
Sage leaves which are processed into aromatherapy are known to have a relaxing effect, so they are good for relieving stress and preventing depression. The aroma of these leaves is also believed to improve the quality of sleep.
4. Maintain brain health and function
Sage leaves contain antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals which are also good for brain health and function. Various studies state that sage leaf extract can improve memory and concentration, and reduce inflammation of the nerves of the brain.
5. Relieves menopausal symptoms
Approaching menopause, a woman's body naturally experiences a decrease in estrogen levels. This condition can usually cause various complaints, such as excessive sweating, dry vagina, difficulty sleeping, and mood swings.
Various studies state that natural compounds in sage leaves have properties similar to estrogen and can relieve complaints due to menopause.
6. Reduce pain
Sage leaf extract is known to have anti-pain effects. Thanks to these benefits, sage leaves have been used for a long time to treat sore throats and minor skin wounds.
In addition to the various benefits above, sage leaves are also known to have various other benefits, such as lowering cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of developing cancer, and supporting bone health.
Even so, the claims for the various benefits of sage leaves above have so far only been limited to small-scale studies. Therefore, the level of safety and effectiveness of the benefits of sage leaves as a medicine or herbal supplement still needs further research.
How to Safely Eat Sage Leaves
Sage leaves are most commonly consumed as a mixed ingredient in various foods, such as soups, stir-fries, or omelets. However, you can also use this leaf as an herbal tea or consume it in supplement form.
In sufficient quantities, sage tea is safe for consumption and rarely causes side effects. The safe limit for consuming sage tea is 3–6 cups per day.
Even though it has various health benefits, sage leaves are not recommended for consumption by everyone, especially pregnant women, nursing mothers, or people who have certain diseases, such as cancer, high blood pressure, and epilepsy.
To get the benefits of sage leaves safely and optimally, you should consult with your doctor first. Moreover, if you are on medication to treat certain diseases.