Clary Sage Essential Oil

Description

Clary Sage essential oil

Clary sage essential oil is extracted from Salvia sclarea of the Labiatae family and is also known as clary, clary wort, muscatel sage, clear eye, see bright and eye bright (but not to be confused with the common herb also called eyebright (Euphrasia).

Although not a cheap oil, clary sage oil has great benefits – not only for easing depression  and nervous burn-out, but for a host of female complaints and for relieving congested complexions.

Oil properties

A clear to pale yellow essential oil, Clary sage has a sweet, nutty fragrance, somewhat herbaceous.The viscosity is watery, viscous if the leaves are included in the distillation.

Origin

It is a native to southern Europe and is a stout biennial herb that grows up to 1 meter (3 feet) tall with large, hairy leaves and small blue/ white flowers growing directly off the long, thin stem. It is cultivated for oil production in France and Russia.

The name is derived from the Latin ‘Claris’ that means ‘clear’ or from the Greek ‘Skeria’ meaning ‘hardness’, referring to the hard parts of the flower petals. It was known in the Middle Ages as ‘Oculus Christi’ – the ‘Eye of Christ’ and was a highly esteemed medicine.

In Jamaica, it was used amongst the local people for cleaning and cooling ulcers and for inflammation of the eyes.

he plant is said to originate from India, China and Java, yet is also native to Africa and the West Indies. It was most likely brought to Europe between the 10th and 15th century as a condiment and spice.

Extraction

Clary sage oil is extracted by steam distillation from the flowering tops and the leaves.

Chemical composition

The main chemical components of clary sage are linalool, linalyl acetate, caryophyllene, a-terpineol, geraniol, neryl acetate, sclareol and germacrene D.

Precautions

Clary sage oil can be very relaxing and should be avoided when consuming alcohol, since it could exaggerate the effects of alcohol,. It is a non-toxic, non-sensitizing oil, but can in large doses generate a headache and must be avoided during pregnancy.

Therapeutic properties

The therapeutic properties of clary sage oil are antidepressant, anticonvulsive, antispasmodic, antiseptic, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, deodorant, digestive, emmenagogue, euphoric, hypotensive, nervine, sedative, stomachic, uterine and nerve tonic.

Uses

Clary sage is calming to the nervous system, particularly in cases of depression, stress, insomnia and deep seated tension. It furthermore is a good tonic for the womb and female functions in general, such as painful periods, scanty menstruation and relaxation during labor, thus encouraging a less painful birth.

During menopause, clary sage oil can help reduce hot flushes, night sweats, palpitations, irritability, as well as headaches and dizziness.

It is good for muscle pains, digestive disorders, kidney diseases and the cooling of inflammation of the skin.

The above information is for general research purposes only and is not a representation or warranty of any kind. This material is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The user of this material is solely responsible for determining fitness for any particular use; requesting and reviewing the applicable Material Safety Data Sheet; and compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Terms and conditions apply.