Recent research published by Tunceli University in Turkey shows the antioxidant and antifungal properties of Clary Sage (Salvia Sclarea). Experts were able to breakdown the essential oil into its chemical components. These showed the oil to be high in terpenes, caryophyllene oxide and sclareol (1).
Clary Sage essential oil has a healing chemical composition
The terpenes which make up about 30 percent of this essential oil are what give it its antioxidant and antifungal qualities (1). These components can cleanse receptor sites on the surfaces of cells, deprogram or erase incorrect information from cellular memory, and finally, they can reprogram the cells with correct information (2).
Anti-depressant and hormone balancing benefits
Another study done in Korea measured the significant change in depression once the women were treated with Clary Sage Oil (3). Sclareol, a diterpenol known for its hormone balancing effects, may have a role in Clary Sage’s antidepressant-like properties (4). After the oil was introduced to the women by inhalation, levels of cortisol (stress hormone) decreased and serotonin (mood and sleep regulator) increased significantly (3).
Historical and modern uses of Clary Sage essential oil
Clary Sage gets its name from the Roman “sclarea” meaning clear because of its popular historical use as eyewash. It is also recorded that the herb of Clary Sage was used in beer to enhance intoxication and produce exhilaration. It was considered an aphrodisiac in the 12th century and was commonly used in cigars (5). Many of its modern uses include:
- Labor pain
- Menstrual symptom ease
- Hormone balancer
- Skin care
- Spiritual balancing
- Reduce high blood pressure (5)
It’s sweet, flowery aroma and use for female ailments made this oil known mostly for women use. The recent studies expand the focus to its antioxidant and anti fungal properties, which are excellent effects for all people. Antioxidants are desirable to all because of their ability to clear free radicals thereby slowing the aging process and preventing cancers and other diseases (2). Save the following infographic as a cheat-sheet for using essential oils for your health. Remember to always mix essential oils with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or jojoba oil to avoid negative skin reactions.
Sources for this article include:
(1) www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
(2) Stewart, David Ph.D. Healing Oils of the Bible
(3) www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
(4) Stewart, David Ph.D. The Chemistry of Essential Oils made Simple p. 414
(5) www.susunweed.com
Article originally published on RawFoodWorld.com republished with permission
