Sage

Sage is a silvery-green plant with leaves that offer a subtle fragrance. It is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. There are 750 varieties of this perennial herb that is grown for its flavorful leaves and herbal flowers.http://gardenhobbies.com/herbs/sage.html

Countries all over the world use sage for a variety of health-related purposes. In Europe, sage is used medicinally as a gargle for sore throat and inflammation of the mouth and gums. In Germany, it is used to cure upset stomach and excessive sweating.http://www.nutrasanus.com/sage.html

Most sage bushes grow up to two feet high with silvery-green leaves. The leaves have a pebbled texture and the flowers have circular clusters filled with white, pink, or violet tones.http://gardenhobbies.com/herbs/sage.html

The sage plant is grown from a seed. This allows the plant to easily be seeded into your herb garden. If planting outdoors, sow the seed after the soil has started to warm in spring weather. It's best to start indoors six week before the last frost.http://gardenhobbies.com/herbs/sage.html

1. Space Seedlings about 12" Apart
2. The Plants Prefer Full Sun and Well Drained Soil
3. Water the Plants during Dry Periods Once or Twice per Week
4. Add a Purpose Fertilizer Once or Twice a Season
5. Harvest the Leaves While Their Young for the Best Flavor
6. Dry Leaves in Cool, Dry Place

Tips for Harvesting & Drying Herbshttp://gardenhobbies.com/herbs/dryingherbs.html

1. Harvest the herbs in the morning because the oils will be at their highest concentration.
2. Wash the herbs gently in cool water immediately after harvesting.
3. Spread herbs on a drying rack to dry.

Sage is a great cooking herb because it can easily be combined with other herbs, especially thyme. The herb is used to add flavor to potato and vegetable dishes, as well as mild cheeses.http://www.theherbspiral.com/SageCuisine.htmA cooking secret of Chefs is to add sage stems or leaves onto hot charcoal while grilling. The fragrant stems will add a wonderful aroma to your grilled dishes.http://www.theherbspiral.com/SageCuisine.htm

1. Kingdom: Plantae
2. Division: Magnoliophyta
3. Class: Magnoliopsida
4. Order: Lamiales
5. Family: Lamiaceae
6. Genus: Salvia
7. Species: Salvia officinalis

1. Indigestion
2. Excessive lactation
3. Excessive sweating
4. Anxiety
5. Depression
6. Female sterility
7. Menopause symptom relief

1. Insect bites
2. Various infections
3. Vaginal discharge