Ingredient focus: Sage

Sage, an evergreen shrub, (otherwise known as Salvia Officinalis) is a common herb that is used in a variety of ways. It comes in three forms: fresh, dried or as an oil and has many benefits to include medicinal properties. Eastern and western cultures have used it for centuries. 

Sage has a strong aroma and earthy flavour and is part of the mint family alongside other herbs like oregano, rosemary, basil and thyme. It is high in antioxidants (molecules that help to strengthen your body's natural defences) and has been linked to several health benefits such as brain health and lowering the risk of cancer. Sage is widely used in preventive and alternative medicine to treat conditions such as cold sores, fatigue, sunburn and high cholesterol. The herb is also high in several nutrients to include vitamin K, A, C & E, magnesium and zinc. 

If you’re looking to add fresh sage to your diet, perhaps try sprinkling it as a garnish on soups, add chopped leaves to tomato sauce or serve it with eggs. Dried sage is great for seasoning roasted vegetables and is also available in the form of tea. Alternatively, if you’d like to try out a sage based beauty product, why not give our KRAYNA AY4 Plantain Cream a go? It is a cream that nourishes the skin and works to improve its elasticity, soothe redness and narrow enlarged pores.

Smudging (burning sage)

Smudging, the act of burning sage, is an ancient spiritual ritual that originates from Native American cultures. It has long been used to connect with the spiritual realm and is used traditionally by healers to reflect upon dilemmas. Certain types of sage contain thujone, which has been found to be mildly psychoactive. 

Sage has antimicrobial properties, meaning that it helps to keep infectious bacteria, viruses and fungi at bay. Burning the herb may purify the air around you to help protect you. It may also help to neutralise positive ions such as pollution, dust and mould. If you’d like to try this out, buy some sage (traditionally white sage is used) and light the end of it. Blow it out before it catches on fire and allow it to smoulder. Allow the ash to collect in a bowl or dish of sorts.