What is clary sage oil anyway?
Clary sage oil is extracted from a namesake plant; particularly known to be a native of Europe. The biological name of the plant is Salvia Sclarea and has been spoken of through generations due to its medicinal properties.
Also otherwise known as muscatel oil, this essential oil contains sclareol, alpha-terpineol, geraniol, linalyl acetate, linalool, caryophyllene, neryl acetate, and germacrene-D.
The most common and widely known use of this oil is that it is used to cleanse the eyes and improve the vision/avoid premature vision loss among many others.
Let’s talk benefits!
Helps fight depression
The usage of clary sage oil naturally boosts your mood, provides mental strength, confidence and hope. It is no secret that every human being is tested under a dark cloud; this particular oil can help you get rid of insecurities and loneliness; it can help you feel hopeful in situations like that of the death of a close person and can also help relieve anxiety. Even therapists are known to prescribe the clary sage oil to those suffering from depression.
Helps manage epileptic seizure
Seizures are sometimes equated to having epilepsy, however, it needs to be understood that a seizure is a single occurrence and is different from epilepsy which is defined as two or more unprovoked seizures. Clary sage oil, however, helps get rid of both as it is known to bring peace to the mind, relaxing the tense nerves and providing an overall sense of calmness and control.
Prevents Bacterial Infections
The clary sage oil is capable of killing the harmful bacteria/fungi or the growth of such microorganisms thereby protecting us against various infections. The parts that benefit the most from this oil are colon, intestines, urinary tract and the excretory system collectively.
Prevents Infections
Clary sage oil acts as a shield against tetanus germs as well as prevents the wounds from becoming septic. The commendable antiseptic properties of this oil also make it useful for protecting the body during surgical recoveries and other wounds which make us vulnerable to infections of sorts.
Stimulates Sexual Desires
Highly aphrodisiac in nature, the clary sage oil acts as a stimulant for sexual desires and also helps treat psychological problems that might have lead to a loss of libido in the first place. Equally effective for both the genders, the oil basically works by increasing the testosterone levels in the system.
Rich in Antioxidants
The essential oil happens to have astringent as well as antioxidant properties. The astringent properties help make your gums and teeth stronger, tones the skin shades, prevents hair loss and helps feel a lot younger. The antioxidant properties, on the other hand, help to tighten the skin and prevent sagging which might take place by virtue of the free radicals in the body.
Skin Care
Due to the presence of an ester – an organic compound made by replacing the hydrogen of an acid by an alkyl (or other organic groups)- called linalyl acetate, sage oil helps reduce skin inflammation and rashes, also accelerating the production of natural oils in the skin. Due to the high concentration, however, it is recommended to mix it with a carrier agent for maximum absorption and healthy-looking skin.
Helps cure flatulence
Flatulence is a situation of accumulation of gases in the alimentary canal; a rather uncomfortable and painful situation to speak of. Clary sage oil, however, due to its carminative properties can help get rid of the bloating; and also even prevent the formation of gas in the first place.
Regulates Menstruation
Irregular, painful menses are very common in the day due to the unhealthy lifestyle that we practice. In a lot of non-medical cases at least, (cases that are not identified as PCOS), clary sage oil has proven to stimulate the occurrence of periods. Apart from stimulation, it can also help get rid of dizziness, mental irritation, mood swings, hot flushes and cravings that are common to women going through menstruation or are in a menopause stage.
Lowers Blood Pressure
By relaxing veins and arteries, clary sage oil can help in lower the blood pressure of the body, also helping reduce the vulnerability to or the risk of a heart stroke, and brain hemorrhage. Increased oxygenation of muscles and better metabolism can also be attained by the usage of clary sage.
Acts as a Nervine
By virtue of being able to sedate the nerves and impart a tranquilizing effect, clary sage oil can help calm your nerves, anxiety and hysteria; thereby acting as a nervine.
Treats Inflammation
Because of being able to have a calming effect, clary sage oil can help treat inflammation on any of your body areas – internal or external.
Cures Stomach Disorders
The production of digestive juices can be regulated with clary sage oil thereby preventing stomach disorders and helping achieve regular bowel movements. Apart from attaining uninterrupted excretion, it also helps absorb nutrients, protects the colon and reduces the possibilities of gastrointestinal conditions like colorectal cancer.
Eliminates Bad Odor
Clary sage oil can be used as an alternative to deodorant and is actually way better because it is natural, stays way longer and does not have any side effects to speak of
Improves Uterus Health
By regulating menses and the production of estrogen, the oil helps maintain better uterus health. Apart from that, the oil can also help get rid of common problems that take place after a menopause-like that of a tumor, bleeding, and intense internal pain. Regular usage can ensure a healthy uterus and reduced the chances of ovarian cancer.
Fights addiction
Clary sage oil has a highly positive impact on the functioning of the brain; it helps get rid of negativity and gives you an overall boost to lead a rather optimistic life. Hence, the usage of the oil can help get rid of other substances like drugs/alcohol that are also known to provide calmness at points of extreme distress.
Eases pains
Pains in general like that of the back, joint, head and menstrual can be relieved by using clary sage oil. Acne production and acne pain can also be eased as the oil helps get rid of excess sebum production.
How to use it?
The clary sage oil can be blended/mixed with oils of citrus fruits (lemon, orange) or with other essential oils like that of Lavender, Pine, Juniper, Geranium, Sandalwood, Jasmine, and Frankincense.
Beware, however:
- Avoid heavy dosage as the sedative effect can cause severe headaches
- It can accelerate the intoxication of alcohol/narcotics by virtue of being a relaxant and sedative
- Pregnant/nursing women should avoid consuming this oil, as the transference effect of this oil through breast milk is still undiscovered.
