Salvia

Salvia is a large genus of plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae, with nearly 1000 species of shrubs, herbaceous perennials, and annuals. It is one of three genera commonly referred to as sage. This article will focus on the medical uses and properties of Salvia.

Overview

The genus Salvia is distributed throughout the world, with the greatest diversity in Central and South America, Central Asia, the Mediterranean, and Eastern Asia. The plants are used for various purposes, including culinary, ornamental, and medicinal. The most commonly known species is Salvia officinalis, also known as common sage or garden sage.

Medical Uses

Salvia has a long history of medicinal use. Traditional Chinese Medicine uses Salvia miltiorrhiza, also known as red sage or danshen, for treating cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. It is also used in Ayurvedic medicine.

Salvia divinorum, also known as diviner's sage, is used in traditional Mazatec rituals for its psychoactive properties. It has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of mental disorders, including anxiety and depression, but more research is needed.

Active Compounds

The active compounds in Salvia vary by species. Common sage contains a variety of phenolic compounds, including rosmarinic acid, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Red sage contains tanshinones and salvianolic acids, which have been shown to have cardiovascular benefits.

Safety and Precautions

While Salvia is generally considered safe for culinary and medicinal use, some species can have psychoactive effects and should be used with caution. Salvia divinorum, in particular, can cause hallucinations and other psychological effects.

See Also

• Herbal Medicine
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Ayurveda

References

Salvia Resources
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