Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) is in the mint family (Lamiaceae or Labiatae). This herb was highly esteemed in the Middle Ages. Its name is derived from the Latin word clarus meaning, “clear” which reflected its role in treating eye complaints. The name salvia comes from the Latin salvere meaning “to save, or heal.” It was even referred to as herba sacra or “sacred herb” by the Romans. In Germany hundreds of years ago, they added clary sage to their beer making which added to the beer’s euphoric qualities. A key constituent is Linalyl Acetate-56-78%–an ester. Sclareol , a diterpene alcohol can be as little as .4% but as much as 7%. It is the sclareol that makes clary sage hormone-like in action.
Traditionally clary sage was traditionally used for eye ailments. Hildegard of Bingen was familiar with it in the 12th century and recommended its use for digestive problems. In her book on medicine, she declares that Clary Sage is effective against poison unless it is so potent that the person dies.
Today, some refer to this oil as “a gift to the female.” It helps to get rid of monthly bloat, depression, and anxiety. It regulates menses and cools down hot flashes. It is known to be euphoric, giving a sense of clarity and empowerment. Clary sage also has a rejuvenating effect on the endocrine system. It balances the pituitary and the pancreas making it helpful for diabetics. Clary sage also helps reduce high cholesterol, supports hormones, and may help with epilepsy. Clary sage oil is effective for calming the mind and easing tension. It is strengthening yet relaxing. This oil teaches us to be satisfied with our achievements, and brings the realization that most of our problems exist in the imagination. For emotional healing it is used to encourage calm, confidence, grounding, regeneration, tranquility, revitalization, balance, and restoration.
The main effect of clary sage is relaxing and anti-spasmodic. It is estrogen-like, used for menopausal symptoms. It mixes well with geranium, lemon, grapefruit, lavender, sandalwood, cypress, mandarin, jasmine, juniper, rose, bergamot, coriander, patchouli, and tea tree. It can be diffused or applied topically to the soles of the feet, ankles, and wrists. It may be taken internally, added to food or soy/rice milk as a dietary supplement.
Clary sage is non toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitizing. You should avoid using clary sage during pregnancy and do not use when drinking alcohol since it will exaggerate drunkenness.
Author: Linda Lee Smith
To learn more about Clary Sage and other essential oils you might want to consider becoming a certified aromatherapist. Educational courses in healing energy and aromatherapy can help you understand how essential oils heal the body/mind/spirit.
Check this out for more information on learning to heal through the art of aromatherapy as a clinical aromatherapist. http://www.ISHAaromatherapy.com For educational courses on healing energy and the laying-on of hands, you can go to http://www.HTSpiritualMinistry.com You can also read more about aromatherapy and Clary Sage essential oil in Linda Smith’s books: Called into Healing, Reclaiming our Judeo-Christian Legacy of Healing Touch, and Healing Oils Healing Hands, Discovering the Power of Prayer, Hands On Healing and Anointing. You can find these books plus much more on my web site at http://www.ISHAhealing.com/HealingStore/tabid/348/Default.aspx
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