During the olden days, the Greeks and Romans held clary sage in high esteem owing to the herb's ecstatic and aphrodisiac (anything that stimulates sexual desire) aspects. The Germans too regarded clary sage highly as it has the aptitude to strengthen the inebriating power of their Muscatel wines.
Clary sage is a biennial herb that grows to sufficient heights and is found in most parts of the world. This herb yields potently aromatic oil that is euphoric as well as beneficial for the health. The essential oil of clary sage is obtained from the plant's flowering tops and leaves.
In addition to its therapeutic properties, clary sage is extensively used in culinary, especially in preparing stews and soups, across the globe. This herb also has industrial use. The powerful aromatic essential oil obtained from clary sage is in great demand in the perfume industry. The stimulating and inspiring actions of the herb result in a feeling of happiness or well-being that is of great importance during times of melancholy as well as nervous tension. This property of the herb is especially helpful in accommodating to changes and aids in putting things into the right point of view.
Clary sage possesses a potent, arid and nutty fragrance. Use of the essential oil obtained from this herb promotes inspirational feelings. Nevertheless, as clary sage may also induce sleepiness, it is advisable to use the herb or the essential oil obtained from it during times of happiness and recreation. This is a primary reason why people should never use this essential oil before undertaking any work that requires concentration, such as driving or using any heavy machinery. In addition, clary sage is considered to be an effective medication for women, especially those enduring premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or menopausal symptoms. The herb or its essential oil forms an important ingredient of many products used for body care. Clary sage is specially used in products intended for hair care as the herb invigorates the scalp. It is also a vital ingredient for many skin care products since it is believed to regenerate the skin.
Unadulterated clary sage essential oil is not only appealing, but also possesses a gentle floral and sweet aroma that will have a profound soothing impact on men and women enduring nervous tension. The essential oil obtained from clary sage is also associated with the treatment of the female reproductive organs and is potently Yang (the lighter side of life, according to Chinese philosophy) and, hence, it is effective in maintaining equilibrium when there is too much of Ying (the dark negative feminine principle in Chinese dualistic cosmology) condition.
According to researchers, the rich sclareol content in clary sage essential oil is attributed to the herb's potent action in alleviating premenstrual syndrome in women. This is owing to the oil's balancing impact on the hormones in women.
Herbalists in many regions of the world have traditionally used clary sage essential oil to ease the painful tightening of the uterus during childbirth. The essential oil obtained from the leaves and flowery tops of clary sage is frequently combined with geranium essential oil to facilitate controlling as well as alleviating disorders endured by women vis-�-vis hormonal disparity, for instance menopausal symptoms, irregular menstrual periods, depression, headache and nausea. In order to ease menstrual and intestinal cramps, you may use a hot towel compress of unadulterated clary sage essential oil. Using a similar compress is also helpful in alleviating liver, stomach and gall bladder problems.
The essential oil obtained from clary sage is natural oil that facilitates invigoration, refresh and reinforce the body, it is ideal for treating anxiety, debility, trepidation and depression. This essential oil promotes coherent imagination and distinct understanding by means of an individual's perception and supports enduring peacefulness, enthusiasm and alertness. Many people who have been using the clary sage essential oil affirm that the oil has an entrancing impact on the mind and feelings that results in extremely peaceful and soothing conditions.
Most importantly, use of the essential oil of clary sage sustains an individual's consciousness, helps to drive out pessimistic thoughts and feelings and also has the potential to help a person to overcome testing and complicating situations. This herb is particularly useful in alleviating traumatic or anxious physical as well as mental conditions. When blended with any other body massage oil, clary sage essential oil works excellently in promoting vigorous blood circulation. A massage with clary sage essential oil facilitates in maintaining the regular blood circulation and aids in the treatment of conditions, such as high blood pressure or hypertension and varicose veins. Rubbing clary sage massage oil on the forehead may also prove to be effective in getting relief from migraine headaches.
As mentioned earlier, the aroma of this essential oil has been traditionally used to soothe the nervous system as well as to relieve anxiety and nervous tension. Although not all people find the aroma of clary sage essential oil to be pleasant, people who like the scent may use it for inducing sound sleep. Interestingly enough, people who dislike the scent of clary sage essential oil describe it having a smell similar to tobacco along with an earthly stench. On the contrary, those who like the aroma of this essential oil say that it is balmy, woody and herbal.
It is likely that you may also find that the clary sage essential oil has a gentle sedative influence on the mind. Hence, if you intend to use this essential oil for any remedial purpose, it is advisable that you avoid narcotics. In addition, people should not undertake any work involving alertness, such as driving, after using the clary sage essential oil. Most importantly, never ever blend clary sage essential oil with alcoholic beverages for it may result in serious side effects.
All said and done, clary sage remains a very fascinating essential oil. This essential oil forms a significant element of several blends and is a much desired herb in many gardens. The floral whorls of clary sage plant are so wonderful and attractive that it appears ideal that they should yield an exceptional essential oil useful for several purposes, especially in aromatherapy.
Although clary sage and the essential oil yielded by the herb have multiple uses, especially as an important element in aromatherapy, it should be used with caution and prudently. Caution is essential because when the herb is used very frequently in elevated intensity or concentration, it may sometimes get out of control. One should never use this herb before driving or undertaking any work that requires concentration, as it may cause dizziness. There have been several complaints of intoxication following the use of the herb or the essential oil obtained from it. Hence, it is advisable that you should never use it while consuming alcoholic beverages or use a blend of the oil with alcohol. In addition, use of the herb or its essential oil should preferably be avoided during the initial months of pregnancy.
