Sage - a natural remedy for hot flushes

Now if you ask any herbalist what their go to herb is for hot flushes they will tell you sage. Yup, that common-a-garden plant is a miracle for the hottest of women.

The Geeky Stuff

Sage has been used traditionally for menopausal hot flushes and night sweats for many years. It’s not really known how it works. Research studies have shown that it does improve symptoms, particularly excessive sweating but we don’t know how. It was thought that it affected hormone levels but the showed only changes to a hormone called thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Sage can also help with memory issues and this one is better understood. It inhibits a couple of enzymes that are help our cognitive function and memory (acetylecholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase if you really want to know). Research studies have shown that people have found it to improve mood and cognitive function.

How do you use it?

If you are planning to use sage medicinally at home then I strongly recommend you plant some fresh sage either in your garden or in a pot if you don’t have a garden (though be aware that it does grow best outside). In this case fresh is best. Sage tea can be drunk hot or cold….. and given we’re trying to cool down then I recommend trying a cold infusion.

To make a cold infusion

Take a small handful of leaves, put in a jug (preferably with a lid) and add a litre of water and leave overnight. The next morning, strain and drink throughout the day. I have to admit, like most things herbal, it’s an acquired taste so if you really can’t do it, maybe add some mint or cucumber to alter the flavour.

Sweet sage tea

If you have more time, you could try a traditional recipe for sweet sage tea. You’ll need: A handful of sage leaves 30g sugar The juice of 1 lemon or lime Infuse all the ingredients in 1 litre of boiling water for 30 mins. Strain and drink either hot or cold.

Cautions

I wouldn’t be a herbalist if I didn’t tell you to be careful. Taking too much can cause irritability so if you are taking it daily for a long period it would be worth consulting a local medical herbalist. Please also consult a herbalist if you are taking any medications or have an underlying medical conditions as this blog to does not constitute medical advice.

Want more hot tips?

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