Salvia: A nature’s ally for women

Salvia or Sage  has become one of my favourites as it has not left me disappointed when it comes to women’s health. Salvia encompasses a variety of species, including Salvia officinalis (common sage) and Salvia miltiorrhiza (red sage or Danshen). These are both celebrated for their medicinal properties in women’s health.It offers evidence-based benefits in managing hormonal imbalances, symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), insulin regulation, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Let’s explore how this powerful herb supports women’s well-being, backed by research.

1. Hormonal Balance

Hormonal fluctuations and transitions as in perimenopause and as a menopause Support:

A study published in Advances in Therapy found that Salvia officinalis significantly reduced the severity and frequency of hot flashes in menopausal women. Its phytoestrogenic properties help mimic estrogen, addressing estrogen decline during menopause (1)(8)(9)

I often find this helpful in Mood Regulation due to its adaptogenic and anxiety reducing properties.  A great ally if you are going through mood swings.(2)

2. PCOS

Sage shows promise in addressing several underlying factors in PCOS;

Insulin Sensitivity: A study in Diabetes & Metabolism Journal demonstrated that Salvia officinalis improves insulin sensitivity and reduces blood glucose levels. Since insulin resistance is a common feature of PCOS, incorporating sage  along with other protocols can  help manage symptoms (3)(7).

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation plays a role in PCOS. Sage contains potent anti-inflammatory compounds, such as rosmarinic acid, that may reduce systemic inflammation, improving ovarian function (4).

3. PMS

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) involves physical and emotional symptoms linked to the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. Sage can help alleviate common PMS symptoms:

Mood Enhancement: The essential oil of Salvia officinalis has been shown to have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, helping to stabilize mood during PMS (8) (10) (11)

I have found it useful in various forms such as capsules and tinctures for this purpose.

How to use Salvia : Salvia can be used as tea, capsules or in herbal tinctures.

Precautions: Using salvia in  excessive amounts can be estrogenic. Seek a qualified provider who can advise right dosing and forms customised for your individual journey.

For women seeking holistic solutions, sage is a powerful ally in achieving balance and wellness.

If you are going through PMS or mood swings and keen to find effective alternative solutions to antidepressant medications, please get in touch or subscribe for informational content.

References

  1. _First_time_proof_of_sage’s_tolerability_and_efficacy_in_menopausal_women_with_hot_flushes
  2. Effect of Salvia officinalis on diabetic patients PMID: 25340127
  3. Clinical trial of Salvia officinalis for glucose management.” Journal of Ethnopharmacolgy. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24050577/
  4. Akaberi, M., et al. (2016). “Chemical and therapeutic properties of Salvia species.” Phytotherapy Research.
  5. The effects of Salvia on cognitive performance and mood.” Nutrition Journal https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20937617
  6.  Efficacy of Salvia Officinalis Extract on the Prevention of Insulin Resistance in Euglycemic Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial.
  7. Estrogenic Activity of Sage (Salvia Officinalis L.) Aerial Parts and Its Isolated Ferulic Acid in Immature Ovariectomized Female Rats.
  8. Salvia Officinalis for Hot Flushes: Towards Determination of Mechanism of Activity and Active Principles.
  9. Effects of Cholinesterase Inhibiting Sage (Salvia Officinalis) on Mood, Anxiety and Performance on a Psychological Stressor Battery.
  10. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Premenstrual Syndrome With Special Emphasis on Herbal Medicine and Nutritional Supplements.