Sage
Sage – Salvia officinalis – a member of the Lamiaceae family is native to the Mediterranean region and has been naturalized in many places. It is a favorite culinary herb used primarily with chicken dishes and stuffing, as a seasoning and in pork sausages. It is an aromatic shrub in the mint family with abundance of phytochemicals that have been identified and intensively studied. These phytochemicals modulate our metabolism. Current studies revealed a wide range of pharmacological activities including anticancer, anti -inflammatory, anti -nociceptive, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, antidementia, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic just to name a few.
The bioactive compounds include alkaloids, carbohydrate, fatty acids, glycosidic derivatives, phenolic compounds, steroids. The bioactive compounds are different in the parts of the herb, they are found in the stem, leaves and flowers, which are considered the aerial parts or above ground. The compounds can be extracted through different methods such as essential oils, tinctures with alcoholic extraction or tea infusions or aqueous extraction.
The stem’s main function is to conduct the nutrients between the root and leaves and provide structure for the above ground organs. The leaves specialize in the production of high-energy sugar molecules via photosynthesis through sunlight and a good supply of carbon dioxide. Flowers are the plant reproductive organs. They are brightly colored to attract the pollinators, some flowers are edible. The colors speak of vitality, life force, and sheer pleasure of sensation; it catches our eyes
I love this culinary herb as it has such a rich affinity for regulating female hormones through its phytoestrogen compounds that support menopausal symptoms. It helps with the management of hot flashes, night sweats, panic, fatigue, and concentration.
Here’s an easy recipe for hydration and to boost your IQ
8 cups filtered water
4-8 large sage leaves slightly rubbed to release the volatile oils
1.5 cups of fresh or frozen blackberries
Place all the ingredients in a large pitcher and allow to infuse for at least 30 minutes. better. The longer it sits the better. Use the frozen berries for ice cubes.
Enjoy and stay well hydrated.