Sage (Salvia officinalis) is an extremely versatile and ancient herb, whose name derives from the Latin word “salvare” (meaning to heal, to save).
It has been used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to treat various health problems. This plant of Mediterranean origin is particularly valuable for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
Here’s why it’s good for sore throats
Sage leaves contain powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agents such as cineole, camphor, and borneol. These substances are effective in fighting the bacteria and viruses that cause sore throats, making sage an excellent natural antiseptic and soothing agent for the throat. It soothes inflammation, reduces swelling and helps you heal faster.
Using sage for a sore throat can help:
Reduce throat inflammation and irritation.
Disinfect the throat due to the bactericidal properties it contains.
Soothe throat soreness and pain, making it easier to swallow and speak.
Sage throat antiseptic recipes
Sage gargle solution
This is a classic and simple solution that can quickly help a sore throat.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons dried sage leaves (or 8-10 fresh sage leaves)
2,5 dl boiling water
1 teaspoon of salt
Preparation:
Put the dried or fresh sage leaves in a mug.
Pour the boiling water over it.
Cover and leave to stand for 10-15 minutes.
Strain and add 1 teaspoon of salt to increase the antiseptic effect.
Use 2-3 times a day. It will be effective if you gargle with it for at least 30 seconds. At night, before going to bed, be sure to include a final rinse. It is important not to eat or drink for at least 1 hour after gargling, as the effect will be reduced!
Sage honey tea for sore throat
This is a soothing, tasty tea that not only relieves sore throats, but is also beneficial for other symptoms of the common cold.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon of dried sage leaves (or 3-4 fresh leaves)
2 dl hot water
1 teaspoon of honey
1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
Preparation:
Place sage leaves in a cup and pour boiling water over them.
Cover the cup and leave to stand for 10 minutes.
Strain the leaves and stir in 1 teaspoon of honey, which also soothes a sore throat.
If you like, add a little freshly squeezed lemon juice
Consume 2-3 times a day until the sore throat subsides.
Sage and apple cider vinegar gargle
The combination of apple cider vinegar and sage creates a very powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory mixture that is excellent for disinfecting the throat.
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons dried sage leaves
2,5 dl water
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon of honey
Preparation:
Bring the water to the boil and pour over the dried sage leaves.
Cover and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes, then strain.
Add the apple cider vinegar and honey.
Rinse 2-3 times a day. The apple cider vinegar enhances the antibacterial properties of the sage and the honey soothes sore throats.
In summary, sage is good for sore throats because:
Anti-inflammatory: reduces throat irritation and pain.
Antibacterial and antiviral: helps fight bacterial and viral infections that often cause sore throats.
It has a soothing effect: it can soothe an irritated throat, making it easier to swallow and reducing the scratchy feeling.
Sage is therefore an extremely useful herb that provides a natural solution for sore throats and colds. The recipes I have shared can be used to effectively relieve sore throat symptoms.
