Sage

Natural health supplements sometimes have unexpected side effects or interactions with medication that can lead to adverse reactions that are sometimes life threatening. The following is a list of cautions that you should be aware of before using Sage (Salvia officinalis). These are referred to as drug/herb interactions.

Warning 1 - Contraindications: Pregnancy and lactation. Some studies indicate that sage may help stimulate uterine contractions. Pregnant women should not consume highly concentrated forms of sage, although using it as a culinary spice has not been shown to have this effect.

Avoid sage if you are breast-feeding, too. There is some evidence that thujone, a chemical found in some sage may reduce the mother’s milk supply.

Warning 2 - Anticonvulsants: Sage may decrease the effect of anticonvulsant medications. Experts recommend avoiding concurrent use.

Warning 3 - Iron Salts: Sage may decrease the absorption of iron salts.

Warning 4 - Diabetes: Excessive amounts of sage may lower blood sugar levels in people with diabeties.

Warning 5 - Hypertension: Sage may increase blood pressure in those with hypertension.

Warning 6 - Seizure Disorders: One species of sage (Salvia officinalis) contains significant amounts of thujone, a chemical that can trigger seizures. If you have a seizure disorder, don’t take sage in amounts higher than what is typically found in food.

Used as a natural health remedy: At one time or another sage has been used for virtually every ailment known to man. Modern evidence supports the possible use of sage for the following:

antisweating agent
antibiotic
antifungal
astringent
antispasmodic
estrogenic
hypoglycemic
mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease

Sage may also be effective for reducing cold sores when combined with Chinese rhubarb.

Side Effects of Sage

Although few side effects have been reported from the use of sage leaves, those using the more concentrated forms such as sage tea or extracts, may experience inflammation of the mucous membranes of the lips and lining of the mouth. Concentrated sage oil is toxic and should be restricted to aromatherapy.

The side effects of sage oil include:

Inflammation of lips and lining of mouth
Kidney damage
Rapid heart rate
Restlessness
Seizures
Tremors
Vertigo
Vomiting
Wheezing

Sage is generally regarded as safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is approved for food use as a spice or seasoning.

As with any herb, a serious allergic reaction is possible. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction. These may include a rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

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For questions and answers about the side effects of herbs see the Herb Forum

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This consumer advocate website is protected by copyright © 2011 Askdocweb, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This is a layman's report on Sage and is not intended to replace discussions with a health care provider. Do not use the information on this forum as a substitute for your doctor's advice. Always consult your doctor before taking any drug and follow your doctor's directions. Source material: Food and Drug Administration, Medline, Physician's Desk Reference, and the largest community of people in the world, those who are concerned about side effects and healthcare.