Sage Leaves Health Benefits & Nutrition
The health benefits of sage leaves have been known for hundreds of years. Due to its nutritional content, these leaves have even been used from generation to generation as a traditional medicine in Europe, Africa and America. To find out more about the benefits of sage leaves, let’s look at the below article.
Sage leaves are generally used as a cooking ingredient because of their strong and distinctive aroma. Not only used as a spice in the cuisine, herbal leaves which are still in the same family as mint leaves also contain various nutrients and minerals that are good for health.
Sage leaf extract can also be processed and used as aromatherapy and a mixture of soap and cosmetic products.
Sage Leaf Nutritional Content
In one tablespoon or about 2 grams of sage leaves, there are 6 calories and the following nutrients:
- Fiber
- Carbohydrate
- Protein
- Vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate
- Minerals, such as zinc, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and manganese
Sage leaves also contain quite high antioxidants. The various types of antioxidants present in sage leaves are lutein, zeaxanthin, polyphenols, and flavonoids. Apart from the various nutrients above, sage leaves also contain antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-pain properties.
Various Benefits of Sage Leaves for Health
Due to the various nutritional content and substances in it, sage leaves can provide various health benefits to the body, each one is briefly describe below :
1. Maintain Healthy Teeth and Mouth
Apart from the vitamins and minerals already mentioned, sage leaves also comprise substances that are antimicrobial and can prevent dental plaque from forming.
A study shows that gargling with a mouthwash made from sage leaves can kill the bacteria that cause cavities. Not only that, but sage leaves are also believed to treat throat infections, gum infections, and mouth sores.
2. Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Another benefit of sage is that it lowers blood sugar levels and keeps it stable. The benefits of sage leaves are even said to be almost similar to the insulin hormone, which functions to regulate blood sugar. Besides, a sage leaf tea is believed to prevent and treat type 2 diabetes.
To enjoy the properties of these leaves, you can consume it in the form of tea. However, if you are currently undergoing diabetes treatment, you should consult your doctor before using sage as herbal medicine.
3. Relieves Inflammation and Heals Wounds
Sage leaf extract has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This feature can treat various health problems due to inflammation, such as sunburn or minor injuries.
Sage leaf extract in topical form is also known to aid in the wound healing process.
4. Provides a Relaxing Effect
Used as aromatherapy or herbal teas, sage is known to have a relaxing effect and reduce stress. It is because to these benefits of sage leaves, you will feel calmer and more relaxed. Aromatherapy from these leaves is also said to help improve sleep quality.
5. Maintain Health and Brain Function
Sage leaves contain antioxidants and various vitamins and minerals, which are also good for brain health and function.
Various studies suggest that sage leaf extract can improve memory and concentration, and reduce inflammation of the brain’s nerves. Sage leaf extract is also said to prevent weakness in the old aged.
6. Relieves menopause symptoms
Approaching menopause, a woman’s body will naturally experience a decrease in estrogen levels. This condition will cause menstruation cessation and can cause various complaints, such as excessive sweating, vaginal dryness, difficulty sleeping, and mood swings.
Various studies suggest that sage leaf extract can help relieve menopausal symptoms.
7. Pain Killing Properties
Sage leaf extract is known to have anti-pain effects. Due to these benefits, sage leaves have been used for a long time to treat sore throats, minor skin wounds, toothaches, and headaches.
In addition to the various benefits above, sage leaves are also known to have various other benefits, such as nourishing and nourishing hair, strengthening endurance, and inhibiting cancer cells’ growth.
However, the claims for the various benefits of sage leaves above, until now, have only been limited to small-scale studies. Therefore, sage leaves’ level of safety and effectiveness as a medicinal or herbal supplement still needs to be further investigated.
Safe Ways to Eat Sage Leaves
Sage leaves are most commonly consumed as an ingredient in various foods. However, you can also use these leaves as herbal teas. Besides, sage leaves are now widely available in the form of herbal supplements.
In certain cases, sage leaves can sometimes cause side effects in abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea, and uterine contractions.
Also Read: Rarely Known Health Benefits of Vanilla Tea
Although it has various health benefits, sage leaves are not recommended for consumption by everyone. Until now, sage leaves have not been proven to be effective and safe for consumption by pregnant women, nursing mothers, or people who have certain diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, high or low blood pressure, and epilepsy.
To make it safer for consumption, you should consult a doctor before using sage leaf supplements. If allergies or other conditions arise after consuming sage leaves, consult your doctor immediately.
