Sage is considered one of the best natural remedies for insomnia thanks to its calming and relaxing properties. Drinking an infusion made with sage leaves before bed, perhaps combined with other relaxing herbs like lemon balm and lavender, is ideal for promoting quality sleep. It can also be used as an essential oil, both orally (always after consulting a doctor) and in aromatherapy using a room diffuser.
Sage’s Contraindications and Side Effects
Before taking sage regularly, not just as a food but as an essential oil or infusion, it’s best to consult your doctor and seek advice on dosage and safety based on your medical condition. This is because sage, particularly its essential oil, contains thujone, a substance naturally present in some plants and a major component of absinthe. In high doses, this compound can be neurotoxic: according to the FDA, 12 drops of essential oil are already considered a toxic dose, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommends a maximum daily dose of thujone of 5 mg.
Therefore, be careful not to exceed the dosage, although it is best to avoid it in some specific cases, such as during pregnancy, as high doses can cause abortion; in cases of epilepsy or neurological disorders, as it can trigger seizures; and in cases of drug therapy, particularly if sedatives, anxiolytics, antiepileptic drugs, or hormonal medications are used. Finally, some people may develop contact dermatitis and allergic skin or respiratory reactions when using sage, especially when using the essential oil.
