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Sage Leaves Extract

Also known as: Sage, common sage, garden sage, Salvia lavandulifolia, Salvia plebeian, Salvia miltiorrhiza, Salvia officinalis

Overview

Sage leaves extract is derived from the leaves of *Salvia* species, primarily *Salvia officinalis* (common sage). It has a long history of traditional use in culinary applications and medicinal practices. Key characteristics of sage extract include its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential neuroprotective properties. Research indicates its utility in cognitive enhancement, alleviating inflammation, and notably, providing relief from menopausal symptoms. The extract contains bioactive compounds such as rosmarinic acid and ursolic acid, which contribute to its therapeutic effects. While research maturity is moderate, several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses support its efficacy, particularly for menopausal symptom treatment and cognitive effects. The evidence quality varies but includes systematic reviews and meta-analyses published in peer-reviewed journals, making it a promising herbal supplement.

Benefits

Sage leaves extract offers several evidence-based benefits. Most notably, a 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials demonstrated that *Salvia officinalis* significantly reduces the frequency of hot flashes in postmenopausal women compared to placebo, though its effect on hot flash severity was not significant. This finding is supported by high-quality meta-analytic evidence. Additionally, sage extracts show promising anti-inflammatory effects; studies on *S. plebeian* and *S. miltiorrhiza* have shown significant reductions in inflammatory markers like nitric oxide, COX-2, prostaglandin E2, and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-8) in both in vitro and in vivo settings. Sage also exhibits strong antioxidant activity due to compounds like rosmarinic acid and ursolic acid, which protect cells from oxidative stress. While some studies suggest potential improvements in cognitive function, possibly via modulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), this evidence is less conclusive and requires further high-quality randomized controlled trials.

How it works

Sage's therapeutic effects are primarily attributed to its rich array of bioactive compounds. These compounds exert anti-inflammatory actions by inhibiting inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Its potent antioxidant properties stem from compounds like rosmarinic acid, which effectively scavenge free radicals, thereby protecting cells from oxidative damage. For cognitive benefits, sage may modulate neurotrophic factors like brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a crucial role in neuronal growth and survival. The absorption and bioavailability of these compounds can vary depending on the specific extract type and formulation, with lipophilic compounds like tanshinones potentially having variable bioavailability.

Side effects

Sage leaf extract is generally considered safe when consumed at typical supplemental doses. Common side effects are rare and, if they occur, are usually mild, such as gastrointestinal discomfort. There are no firmly established significant drug interactions or contraindications identified in clinical trials to date. However, caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety data in these populations. While generally well-tolerated, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation. Long-term safety data beyond three months of use are limited, suggesting that prolonged use should be approached with caution and under professional guidance.

Dosage

For menopausal symptoms, clinical trials have typically utilized doses of *Salvia officinalis* extract around 100 mg, taken three times daily, for a duration of 8 to 12 weeks. The minimum effective dose for reducing hot flash frequency appears to be approximately 300 mg per day of a standardized extract. Optimal dosing for other potential benefits, such as cognitive enhancement or anti-inflammatory effects, is less clearly defined and may require further research. It is generally recommended to take sage extract with meals, as this may improve the absorption of its active compounds. Using standardized extracts is crucial to ensure a consistent and reliable content of bioactive compounds, thereby maximizing efficacy and safety. Adherence to recommended dosages is important, as upper limits and safety thresholds for very high doses are not extensively studied.

FAQs

Is sage extract effective for hot flashes?

Yes, meta-analytic evidence supports that sage extract, particularly from *Salvia officinalis*, can significantly reduce the frequency of hot flashes in postmenopausal women, though it may not impact severity.

Is it safe long-term?

Short-term use (up to 3 months) appears safe based on current research. However, long-term safety data for sage extract are limited, so prolonged use should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Can it improve memory?

Preliminary evidence suggests sage extract may have potential cognitive benefits, including memory improvement. However, more rigorous and larger clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects.

Does it interact with medications?

No major drug interactions have been consistently reported in high-quality studies. Nevertheless, it's always advisable to consult a healthcare professional if you are taking other medications.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5318325/ – This review, including RCTs and mechanistic studies, indicates that sage extracts reduce inflammation markers and may enhance cognition via BDNF modulation. It highlights the biological plausibility of sage's effects, though many findings are from preclinical or small clinical trials.
https://www.phasesclinic.com/post/spotlight-on-sage-as-a-natural-remedy-for-menopause – This source cites an unnamed double-blind RCT involving 66 postmenopausal women over 3 months, which found that 100 mg of *S. officinalis* taken three times daily improved menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, anxiety, and sleep. It suggests good quality but notes the need for replication.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37489230/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Moradi et al. (2023) analyzed multiple RCTs in postmenopausal women. It concluded that *S. officinalis* significantly reduces hot flash frequency compared to placebo but had no significant effect on severity. The study is considered high-quality with robust methodology.