Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Common Names: Clary Sage
• Parts Used: Leaves, Flowers, Essential Oil

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Description

Salvia sclarea, commonly known as Clary Sage, is a biennial or short-lived perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is widely used in herbal medicine and aromatherapy for its calming effects, hormonal balancing properties, and benefits for skin and respiratory health.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European herbal medicine for eye health and vision support (hence the name “clear eye”).
• Traditionally employed to support hormonal balance, especially in women’s health.
• Used as a relaxant and mood enhancer in aromatherapy.
• Applied externally to wounds and inflamed skin for healing and pain relief.

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Constituents

• Essential oils (linalyl acetate, linalool, sclareol)
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Diterpenes
• Coumarins

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Actions

• Nervine (Calming and relaxing)
• Hormonal balancer
• Antispasmodic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Astringent
• Antimicrobial

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Medicinal Uses

1. Women’s Health and Hormonal Balance:
Clary Sage is known for its ability to balance hormones, relieve menstrual discomfort, and ease menopausal symptoms.

2. Nervous System Support:
Used for stress relief, anxiety reduction, and improved mood in aromatherapy.

3. Digestive Aid:
Traditionally taken to soothe digestive discomfort, bloating, and spasms.

4. Respiratory Health:
The essential oil is often used in steam inhalations to clear congestion and support lung function.

5. Skin and Wound Healing:
Applied topically to reduce inflammation, heal wounds, and treat skin irritations.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Leaves/Flowers):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Essential Oil (Topical and Aromatic Use):

• Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to the skin for relaxation or menstrual relief.
• Inhale or use in a diffuser for calming and mood-enhancing effects.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy due to its potential uterine-stimulating effects.
• Blood Pressure: May lower blood pressure; use with caution if hypotensive.
• Essential Oil Sensitivity: Always dilute before applying to the skin.
• Alcohol Interaction: Can enhance the intoxicating effects of alcohol when used in aromatherapy.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and calming; supports hormonal balance and emotional well-being.
• Ayurveda: Balances Vata and Kapha, but may increase Pitta in excess.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Moves Qi stagnation, nourishes Yin, and calms the Shen (spirit).

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Combinations

• For Hormonal Support: Combine with chaste tree (Vitex) and raspberry leaf.
• For Stress Relief: Combine with lavender and lemon balm.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and chamomile.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected during peak bloom and dried for medicinal use.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried herb and essential oil in airtight containers away from heat and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Salvia sclarea’s hormonal balancing, stress-relieving, and anti-inflammatory properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Clary Sage remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for hormonal balance, relaxation, and skin health.