TRADITIONALLY INDICATED FOR
THESE SYMPTOMS
Sage may be beneficial for these symptoms.
The suitability of any food for a condition is highly dependent on the individual.
Please see your doctor before using this food to treat a medical condition.
CONTRAINDICATED FOR
THESE SYMPTOMS
Sage may be harmful or contraindicated for these symptoms.
Note this is not a complete list of all possible contraindications.
Please see your doctor before using this food to treat a medical condition.
Pregnancy: Sage, especially in medicinal amounts or as sage oil, should be avoided during pregnancy. It contains thujone, which can stimulate uterine contractions and may increase the risk of miscarriage or preterm labor.
Breastfeeding: Sage may reduce milk production, particularly in larger amounts. It is generally advised to avoid excessive use of sage when breastfeeding, especially concentrated forms.
Estrogen-sensitive conditions: Sage contains compounds that may have mild estrogenic effects. People with hormone-sensitive conditions like breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or ovarian cysts should use sage with caution, as it could potentially alter hormone levels.
Allergic Reactions: Individuals allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family (which includes basil, lavender, mint, rosemary, and thyme) may also be allergic to sage. This can cause symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, or respiratory issues.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Excessive use of sage may irritate the digestive system, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or upset stomach. People with gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis or ulcers should avoid large quantities of sage.
Kidney and Liver Conditions: Sage contains thujone, a compound that can be toxic in large quantities. High amounts of sage, particularly in concentrated forms like extracts or oils, can place additional stress on the kidneys or liver. Individuals with pre-existing kidney or liver disease should use sage cautiously and consult a healthcare provider before using it medicinally.
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels: People with diabetes or those on blood sugar-lowering medications should monitor their blood sugar levels closely when using sage, particularly in larger amounts.
Seizure Disorders: Sage contains thujone, which can lower the seizure threshold. Individuals with seizure disorders, including epilepsy, should avoid using sage, especially in large amounts or in concentrated forms, as it may trigger seizures.
Surgical Considerations: Since sage may have mild blood-thinning effects, it is advised to stop using sage at least two weeks prior to surgery to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding during and after the procedure.
Herb Drug Interaction Risk
Here are some potential herb drug interactions with Sage. Please see your health care provider for more information.
- Analgesic: If the mechanism of pain relief is narcotic, do not combine with antihistamines.
- Antidepressant: Do not combine with antihistamines.
- Decongestant: For decongestants whose mechanism is vasoconstriction, could potentially increase blood pressure.