The Sage

Salvia officinalis commonly known as sage is a small shrub with woody stems. The leaves are grayish and the flowers are somewhat blue or purple in color. I've always loved the aroma of sage whenever I use it for roasting chicken. I never knew that it could be medicinal too. It was recently discovered that sage can kill 65 types of germs. The herb's rosmarinic acid is a potent antioxidant that acts as a natural antibiotic. It can soothe the pain and inflammation brought about by sore throats within 24 hours. The formula is so simple. Just simmer 2 tablespoons of dried sage in 8 oz water for 10 minutes, stir in 1/4 teaspoon of salt and let cool. The salt will help ease the swelling. Gargle with the solution for 30 seconds 3 times daily at the sign of infection. Before I have read about this, my mom used to make just the water and salt solution. Now, I've learned that this works even better with sage. I am so glad I bought the plant a few months ago.