Sage

Index

Common Sage (Salvia Officinalis)

Sage is a very useful herb, both medicinally and magickally.

Medicinal Properties

From a medicinal point of view Sage seems to be very good for the throat. When I get a sore throat or bronchitis, out comes the sage. It's mildly antiseptic too. It is also an anti-inflammatory and good for inflamed anything when applied as an ointment. It's also famous in the Sage and onion stuffing.

$/!\$ BE WARNED: Sage should not be taken internally during pregnancy as the oils can induce abortion.

Magickal Properties

Magickally, Sage is very useful. It purifies and protects and is often used to cleanse spaces that have been disturbed. I burn Sage in my bedroom once a month. In the language of plants Sage represents longlife and knowledge.

Varieties

There are many different varieties of Sage, but I find that the most effective one for magick work and ritual is White Sage (latin; Salvia apiana) as it's very good for purifing things. Common Sage, (latin; Salvia officinalis) is best for medicinal use.

Cultivation

You usually grow sage from seed but this can be tricky in the UK so cuttings are your friend. it likes a fair bit of sun, and lightly alkaline soil, so if you've got acidic soil, it's wise to mix in a little chalk or dolomite. It likes fairly warm conditions, and grows like mad in semi-deserts like Spain, Greece, and most of the USA.

Bibliography

Sage at Wikipedia.

CategoryPlantLore CategoryRitual