Introduction to Salvia sclarea
Clary Sage, also known as clary sage or Roman sage, is a biennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, widely recognized for its multiple medicinal and aromatic properties. Native to southern Europe, western Asia and regions of northern Africa, this species has been valued since ancient times both in traditional herbal medicine as in the cosmetics and food industries. Its use is primarily associated with hormonal regulation, skin benefits, and emotional well-being, making it a benchmark in aromatherapy and natural formulations.
Botanical description and habitat
Clary Sage It is a large, biennial herbaceous plant that can reach up to a meter in height during the flowering period. It has sturdy, square, branched stems covered in hairs.
The leaves They are large, opposite, oval-shaped, with slightly toothed margins and a very characteristic woolly texture, reaching between 10 and 20 centimeters in length. The basal leaves form a rosette after flowering, during the winter period.
Flowers They are grouped in whorls of 2 to 6 units on the flower stems, presenting shades that vary between white, lilac, and pale pink. The bracts have colors similar to the flowers and are notable for the presence of aromatic glands on their stems, responsible for the secretion of the precious essential oil.
El natural habitat Clary sage includes temperate regions, fields, sunny slopes, well-drained soils and scrub areas, where it is able to adapt to drought conditions.
History and traditional uses
Clary sage It has been used since the Middle Ages, where it came to be known as Oculus Christi —the eye of Christ— for its uses as an eye tonic. In France it is called all good (good for everything) and in English it is called Clary sage, derived from "clear eye" in reference to its traditional use to soothe or cleanse the eyes. Historically, it has also been called clary sage.
Over the centuries, clary sage gained prestige as comprehensive medicinal plant and was highly valued in folk medicine to treat ailments dermatological, digestive and nervousIn the food field, its fragrance was used to flavor wines, liqueurs, vermouths, and similar products.
Taxonomy and synonymy
- Scientific name: Salvia sclarea L.
- Common names: clary sage, Roman sage, eye herb, St. George's wort, St. John's wort, maro, almaro, among others.
- Most relevant botanical synonyms:
- Clary sage vulgaris Mill.
- Aethiopis sclarea (L.) Fourr.
- Salvia haematodes Scop., Salvia foetida Lam., Salvia coarctata Vahl.
- Other less frequent variants.
In botanical literature, Salvia sclarea It was described by Carl Linnaeus, and its epithet "clarea" comes from the Greek sklêros, which means “hard.”
Chemical composition of Salvia sclarea
One of the reasons for the popularity of clary sage is that complexity of its essential oil, which is obtained by steam distillation of the leaves and flowers. The resulting oil is a yellowish liquid with a sweet, minty and herbal aroma, described as “spicy” by some, and very attractive to others.
Amongst the Main components of the essential oil are:
- Linalyl acetate: Present in proportions of 45% to 75%. Responsible for the calming properties and characteristic aroma.
- Linalool: It comprises between 10% and 20%. It is noted for its anti-inflammatory and relaxing effects.
- Other compounds: sclareol, pinene, myrcene, phellandrene, germacrene D, caryophyllene, as well as minor terpenes that vary according to chemotype and geographic region.
In recent studies, a notable content of sclareol, which also gives the oil value in the perfume industry due to its function as a natural fixative.
The plant also contains linolenic acid (omega-3), which provides additional benefits for the skin and cardiovascular system.
Pharmacological and health properties
Clary Sage exhibits a wide range of medicinal properties which have positioned it as an essential plant in modern and traditional phytotherapy. Its benefits are mainly due to its unique combination of active compounds.
- Antimicrobial and antiseptic properties: Laboratory studies confirm that essential oil is effective against bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. Therefore, it is recommended for throat, stomach, and skin infections.
- Anti-inflammatory and soothing action: Thanks to its high levels of linalool and linalyl acetate, it helps reduce inflammation and relieve muscle pain and joint discomfort.
- Hormonal regulator: It is famous for its ability to balance the female hormonal system, relieving premenstrual symptoms, menstrual cramps, irregularities and discomfort of menopause.
- Spasmolytic properties: It relaxes smooth muscles, helping to calm menstrual cramps and digestive discomfort.
- Sedative and anxiolytic effect: In aromatherapy, its fragrance helps relieve stress, anxiety and improves sleep quality.
- fungicidal activity: Effective for treating dandruff, dermatitis and scalp problems.
- Astringent properties: Regulates sebum production in oily skin and provides balance to the skin.
- Antioxidant: Its compounds help neutralize free radicals, protecting the skin and preventing premature aging.
Cosmetic and dermatological uses
El clary sage essential oil It is widely used in the formulation of natural cosmetic products:
- Acne treatment: Due to its antiseptic and astringent action, it helps reduce inflammation and regulate oil production in combination or oily skin.
- Prevention of skin aging: Its antioxidant and regenerative effects make it a key ingredient in anti-wrinkle creams and lotions for mature skin.
- Hair care: It is used in preparations for prevent hair loss, combat dandruff and balance oily or dermatitis scalp.
- Soap and perfumery: Its persistent aroma is used as a fragrance and fixative, providing value in soaps, lotions, and handmade perfumes.
- Natural deodorants: The oil has the ability to regulate sweating and eliminate bacteria that cause bad odor.
- Dental care: Used in whitening and antiseptic toothpastes, it fights oral bacteria and strengthens oral hygiene.
Historically, remedies were prepared with clary sage leaves mixed with vinegar and honey to combat skin infections and promote skin regeneration.
Aromatherapy and emotional well-being
Clary sage essential oil is highly valued in aromatherapy for its deeply relaxing and balancing qualities. It is used in diffusers to create calm environments, combat stress, relieve anxiety or induce positive moods.
- Mood and stress: Numerous studies associate its aromatic use with increased well-being, reduced emotional tension, and improved mood.
- Sleep disorders: It helps to make rest more restful and reduces cases of occasional insomnia.
- Menopause and menstrual cycle support: It promotes emotional and physical regulation in women, both topically (diluted in carrier oils for massages) and aromatically.
- Calm in situations of child hyperactivity: It helps to relax restless children, although always following the recommendations for safe dilution and dosage.
Therapeutic and traditional applications
Clary sage has been and continues to be an indispensable element in herbal medicine:
- Menstrual symptoms and menopause: It is one of the most popular remedies for reduce menstrual pain, regulate the cycle and relieve hot flashes.
- In childbirth: It has traditionally been used to relax the mother, soothe pain, and promote a less traumatic birth.
- Fertility Support: It is a plant linked to the female reproductive system and has been recommended to couples having difficulty conceiving.
- Digestive disorders: Used in folk medicine as stomachic, antispasmodic, emmenagogue and stimulant to improve digestive discomfort, cramps, diarrhea or tympanitis.
- Respiratory symptoms: The oil is recommended as an anti-catarrhal remedy in mild cases of congestion and throat discomfort.
- Regulation of sweating: Indicated for people with excessive sweating and as support in personal hygiene.
Food and ornamental uses
Clary sage It has also been used to flavor foods and beverages:
- At food industry, the essential oil serves as a flavoring for muscatels, vermouths, wines and liqueurs.
- The garden, is appreciated for its beautiful flowering and aroma, also promoting biodiversity by attracting bees and pollinators.
His presence as ornamental plant It is becoming increasingly widespread, both in gardens and in organic crops, taking advantage of its low water requirements and its ability to improve the environment.
Growing and caring for Salvia sclarea
Clary Sage It is one of the largest and most resistant salvias, and its domestic cultivation is simple by following a series of guidelines:
- Floor type: It prefers light, well-drained soils with good sunlight. It tolerates calcareous and poor soils.
- Irrigation: Moderate, avoiding waterlogging. It is drought-resistant once established.
- Multiplication: By seeds, which can germinate spontaneously after flowering if the inflorescences are not cut.
- Maintenance: It does not require extensive pruning; it is advisable to leave the flowers to encourage natural reseeding.
- Plagues and diseases: It is resistant but can be affected by fungi in conditions of excessive humidity.
During the winter, the aerial part dies, but the plant regrows the following season from the basal rosette.
Recommendations for use and precautions
Although Clary sage is considered one of the least toxic salvias, a series of recommendations must be followed for its safe use:
- Pregnancy and lactation: Avoid using essential oils, especially without professional supervision. Except for possible limited and closely controlled applications during childbirth.
- Dilution: The essential oil should be diluted to 1% for facial use and 3% for body applications, preferably in carrier oil (almond, jojoba or olive).
- Drug interactions: Avoid simultaneous use with anticoagulant medication, antidepressants, or other substances without the advice of a specialist.
- Internal route: Not recommended without medical supervision.
- Hypersensitivity: Perform an allergy test before first topical use and avoid application to mucous membranes, eyes, or broken skin.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and combined use with other medications without medical consultation.
The safety of Roman sage is well documented, and at appropriate doses, no significant adverse effects have been observed.
Scientific studies and references
Numerous investigations support the Properties of Salvia sclarea and its main components:
- Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects: Linalool and linalyl acetate have been shown to reduce inflammation in cellular and animal models.
- Antimicrobial and antifungal activity: The essential oil inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi, including Candida albicans.
- Anxiolytic and antidepressant effect: Inhalation of the oil modulates dopaminergic activity and can improve symptoms of anxiety and low mood.
- Hormonal regulation and support for female well-being: Several trials have indicated the effectiveness of the oil in relieving premenstrual and menopausal symptoms.
- Cosmetic and dental application: Its use reduces inflammation, improves skin conditions and can whiten teeth.
