Navigation Path: Home arrow Environment arrow Garden arrow Sage (Salvia officinalis)  
 
Sage (Salvia officinalis) Print E-mail
Didi Hofmann   
Thursday, 01 June 2006

Image

Looking for some quick and easy natural remedies this winter? Sage (Salvia Officinalis) is a good place to start. Its leaves have strong antiseptic properties and they can be used to make a gargle for throat and mouth infections. Infuse 3 teaspoons fresh leaves in a cup of boiling water for 15 minutes, strain and cool. Gargle three times a day.

A sage infusion can also be used to treat coughs, colds and influenza. To keep a pot of Sage growing through winter place it in a sunny, protected position and don't over water. It grows about 30cm high and throws up spikes of mauve purple or white flowers in spring. Trim the bush after flowering to retain its shape.

Besides its medicinal value, Sage is traditionally used in stuffing's for roast chicken. But don't stop there. It combines well with cheese and vegetables like butternut or pumpkin. A traditional Italian dish simmers together a tablespoon of chopped sage, diced butternut and thinly sliced onions in chicken stock before adding Orzo, mini pasta, and letting it cook until all the juices are absorbed. Sage should be used sparingly in cooking because its strong, aromatic taste can be overwhelming.

Information supplied by Di-Di Hoffman who is the owner of Bouquet Garni Nursery - South Africa's Top Potted Herb Growers and Marketers. Visit his website www.herb.co.za for access to his free Timeless Herb Secrets e-newsletter and hundreds of tips and recipes to help you get the most from your herbs.

Share |
Disclaimer: Harmonious Living is written for and read by a community of individuals with strong and independent opinions. While the publishers of Harmonious Living are dedicated to providing a forum in which views can be openly expressed, those views do not necessarily reflect those of the publishers.
Related Articles

 
 
 
 
Contact Us | Sitemap | Terms & Conditions | Search | Login | About HL | News | Advertise
 
 
     
You may also like: Green or Nothing
Designed & Maintained by
Salsanet Solutions