Medicinal Monday - Sage

Sage is a small aromatic evergreen shrub with silvery green leaves that are held sacred by many Native Americans because of its excellent purifying attributes. The botanical name for this plant comes from the Latin word "salvere" meaning to be saved. It is a member of the mint family and closely related to rosemary.

There are many health benefits of sage and in Native American culture, this herb was thought to provide balance healing the mind by clearing it of any negative thoughts such as anger, fear, and the body by cleansing it.  Interestingly, scientific research has shown that the smoke of sage actually clears bacteria out of the air.

Sage is known for its natural antiseptic, preservative and bacteria-killing abilities in meat; making it useful before refrigeration was invented.  Medicinally, this useful herb has been helpful in easing abdominal cramps, menopausal symptoms, bloating, colds, flu, sore throats cuts, and bruises. Sage tea, sometimes called "thinkers" tea helps ease depression.

People have cooked with sage for thousands of years. Fresh sage is the most flavorful and fragrant and is a main ingredient in many recipes. When sage is hung and dried it retains some of the pungent flavorful qualities for about a year. Sage pairs well with cheese, eggs, mushrooms, pasta, butternut squash and of course turkey!

Did you Know...

People have used sage to flavor food for at least 2000 years. It was popular with the Ancient Romans and Greeks and used to treat sore throats, hot flashes, and ulcers. Arabian healers of the 10th century believed that eating it would grant immortality, and Europeans four centuries later used it to ward off witchcraft. Three cases of tea leaves reportedly were traded for one case of sage leaves by 17th century Chinese because they appreciated the medicinal qualities of sage tea. 

Finnish herbalist, Henriette Kress, and author of Henriette’s Herbal lists at least seven different varieties of sage, while other sources say there are over 700 species spread throughout the world. Some varieties are used for culinary purposes, while others have more medicinal properties and uses.

About The Institute for American Indian Studies

The Institute for American Indian Studies preserves and educates through discovery and creativity the diverse traditions, vitality, and knowledge of Native American cultures. Through archaeology, the IAIS is able to build new understandings of the world and history of Native Americans, the focus is on stewardship and preservation.  This is achieved through workshops, special events, and education for students of all ages.
 

Located on 15 woodland acres the IAIS has an outdoor Three Sisters and Healing Plants Gardens as well as a replicated 16th c. Algonkian Village.  Inside the museum, authentic artifacts are displayed in permanent, semi-permanent and temporary exhibits from prehistory to the present that allows visitors a walk through time. The Institute for American Indian Studies is located on 38 Curtis Road in Washington Connecticut and can be reached online or by calling 860-868-0518.