Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a plant that belongs to the mint family. This herb has been renowned for its culinary purposes, but it has other benefits too. The leaves of the plant are rich in antioxidants like ellagic acid and rosmarinic acid and other nutrients and compounds. Sage tea has a strong aroma.
Sage tea benefits the body by working as a natural cleanser. Read on to know more about its benefits.
The Nutrient Profile of Sage Tea
0.7 gms or 1 tsp of Ground Sage consists of the following-
| Calories | 2 |
| Protein | 0.1 gms |
| Carbs | 0.4 g |
| Fat | 0.1 gm |
| Vitamin K | 10 % of RDI |
| Iron | 1.1 % of the RDI |
| Vitamin B6 | 1.1 % of the RDI |
| Calcium | 1 % of the RDI |
| Manganese | 1 % of the RDI |
The Health Benefits of Sage Tea
Sage consists of a healthy dose of minerals and vitamins. Consuming a small amount of sage takes care of 10 % of your daily intake of Vitamin K. It contains caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, rutin, and ellagic acid- all of them play a crucial role to benefit the health.
1. Full of Antioxidants
Antioxidants consist of molecules that help to fight off the free radical- the leading cause of chronic diseases. Sage tea benefits you mainly by protecting from life-threatening diseases as it has over 160 identified polyphenols that are plant-based compounds functioning as antioxidants in the body.
2. Relives Symptoms of Menopause
There is a decline in the hormone called ‘estrogen’ when a woman reaches menopause. It can cause some disturbing symptoms like sweating, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and irritability. Sage tea benefits include traditional methods to treat symptoms of menopause.
Sage has estrogen-based properties that help to bind the receptors in the brain and improves memory and treats hot flashes. Studies show that drink sage tea for over eight weeks drastically reduced symptoms of menopause(1).
3. Controls Blood Sugar levels
The extracts from sage reduced blood glucose levels in rats suffering from Type 1 diabetes as it activates a specific receptor. Once it is activated, it empties the excess fatty acids in the blood that help to improve insulin performance in the body. Thus, drinking Sage Tea prevents blood sugar spike.
4. Improves Brain Health
Drinking Sage tea benefits(2) the brain by boosting memory and improving concentration. The antioxidants present in the plant buffer the defense system of the brain. Drinking this improves memory, problem-solving ability, and other cognitive functions. It elevates mood, enhances alertness, and calmness.
5. Lowers the Bad Cholesterol
It reduces LDL, also known as the bad cholesterol in the body. LDL compromises heart health as it builds upon the wall of arteries and causes damage.
6. Treats Diarrhea
Sage tea benefits you if you are suffering from diarrhea. It has been used as a traditional remedy for the treatment of diarrhea. There is a specific compound present in sage extracts that alleviate symptoms of diarrhea and relaxes the gut.
7. Improves Bone Health
Vitamin K is present in excess amounts in Sage Tea. This vitamin plays a crucial role in improving bone health.
8. Prevents Aging of the Skin
Some studies have reported that drinking sage tea can prevent the premature aging of skin and formation of wrinkles.
9. Improves Dental Health
Sage tea has microbial effects that kill microbes that cause dental plaque. Drinking this removes bad breath, treats bleeding gums, and prevents cavities. It may also prevent throat infections.
How to Use
To utilize maximum sage tea benefits follow this recipe to prepare it-
- Take a cup ad to add 1 tsp sage leaves to it.
- Pour in boiling water in the cup and steep for 10 minutes.
- Add some sugar and lemon to enhance its taste.
Precautions to be Undertaken
As the sage tea benefits have been well discussed, the side-effects must also be mentioned.
- Thujone is a compound found in sage leaves that causes worry for some. High doses of thujone can be very toxic and harmful to the brain.
- Overconsumption of sage tea can cause symptoms of headache, nausea, and palpitation. The maximum allowed intake is about 4-6 cups a day.
Bottom Line
The plant Sage promises several health benefits. The richness in antioxidants supports oral health, improves brain function, controls diabetes, and improves cholesterol levels. Drinking this hot tea brings immediate relief when you have a sore throat or if you are suffering from cough and cold.
FAQ
1. How Much Sage Tea Safe to Drink?
To make full use of sage tea benefits, you can easily drink around 4 cups of sage tea every day. However, do not exceed 6 cups as it may cause signs of irritability in the body.
