Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)

History: The Romans called it sclarea, from claurus, or “clear,” because they used it as an eyewash. The practice of German merchants of adding clary and elder flowers to Rhine wine to make it imitate a good Muscatel was so common that Germans still call the herb Muskateller Salbei and the English know it as Muscatel Sage. Clary sometimes replaced hops in beer to produce an enhanced state of intoxication and exhilaration, although this reportedly was often followed by a severe headache. It was considered a 12th century aphrodisiac.-Susun Weed

In Jamaica, it was used among the local people for cleaning and cooling ulcers and for inflammation of the eyes.- http://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oils/clary-sage.htm

Clary sage Salvia sclarea essential oil has extraordinary healing powers, especially for women. During my research of clary sage I learned how truly important it is. I use the essential oil in my body wash because it’s an anti-depressant and I love the deep sweet/herbaceous scent. After taking a shower with my body wash I want you clean and happy. Keep reading it gets better.

Clary sage therapeutic properties are:

Antidepressant, anti-convulsive, antispasmodic, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, deodorant, digestive, emmenagogue, euphoric, hypotension, nervine, sedative, stomachic, uterine and nerve tonic.

Antibacterial: Kills bacteria and fungi, particularly infections of the colon, intestines, urinary tract and excretory system.

Anti convulsive: reduces convulsions, calms the nervous system

Antidepressant: It helps with clarity, uplifting, reduces stress and improves the mood. Encourages hope, confidence and mental strength.

Antiseptic: Keep wounds from becoming septic, protects against tetanus.

Antispasmodic: Useful in the treatment of spasms, muscle, respiratory, coughs, headaches.

Aphrodisiac: Reduces frigidity and impotency.It’s said that the plant offers euphoric sensations, increasing joy, confidence and even sexual drive while combating stress and depression.

Deodorant: Clary Sage oil in diluted form, it serves as an efficient deodorant without any side effects. It’s effects last a long time.

Digestive: It boosts the secretion of gastric juices and bile, thereby speeding up digestion and easing the process, which relieves cramping, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.

Hypotension: Clary Sage oil is very effective in reducing blood pressure by relaxing the veins and arteries. It widens the blood vessels and allows for increased circulation, resulting in increased oxygenation to the muscles and organ systems, boosting their performance and your overall metabolic performance.

Nervine: It sedates nervous and other disorders  like nervousness, vertigo, anxiety, and hysteria.

Sedative: It’s calming, helps you relax, reduces inflammation.

Skin care: Clary sage is great for acne. Calming and soothing to the skin. Eczema is soothing to the skin and can reduce irritation.Strengthens skin and gums. Combined with a carrier oil, like jojoba, it can be used on larger areas of the skin to reduce wrinkles and improve tone and texture. Also promotes healthy hair and scalp.

Stomachic: Maintains health of stomach.

Uterine: It prevents uterine problems that women have after menopause, including uterine tumors, bleeding, and pain. It regulates hormones like estrogen and ensures long-term health of the uterus.

                                                                                         photo from Fordville Gardens

 Cautions:

Clary sage oil can be very relaxing and should be avoided when consuming alcohol, since it could exaggerate the effects of alcohol. It is a non-toxic, non-sensitizing oil, but can in large doses generate a headache and must be avoided during pregnancy.

Reference:

http://www.essentialoils.co.za/essential-oils/clary-sage.htm

http://www.susunweed.com/Article_ClarySage.htm

http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/clary-sage-oil.html

Lawless, Julia. The C0mplete Illustrated Guide to Aromatherapy.Great Britain: Element Books Limited,1997.