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Sage

Scientific Name: Salvia officinalis

Description

Sage is a perennial herb belonging to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is characterized by its gray-green, often hairy leaves and woody stem. The leaves have a strong aroma and are commonly used in cooking. Sage produces small, purple-blue flowers that attract pollinators.

Where it Grows

  • Mediterranean regions
  • United States
  • Canada
  • Australia
  • Parts of Asia

Planting

When

  • Spring: Ideal for planting in temperate regions after the last frost.
  • Fall: Can also be planted in milder climates before the winter.

How

  1. Soil Preparation: Choose well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
  2. Spacing: Plant seedlings or seeds about 12-24 inches apart.
  3. Depth: Sow seeds to a depth of 1/4 inch if planting seeds.

Care

Watering

  • Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
  • Avoid over-watering as sage prefers drier conditions.

Thinning

  • Thin seedlings to prevent overcrowding once they reach 2-3 inches in height.

Weeding

  • Regularly remove weeds to reduce competition for nutrients and water.

Mulching

  • Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Fertilizing

  • Fertilize sparingly; over-fertilization may lead to reduced flavor.

Pest Management

  • Monitor for pests like aphids and spider mites; use insecticidal soap if necessary.

Harvesting

  • Harvest leaves as needed; the best time is in the morning after the dew has dried.

Common Problems

  • Root Rot: Caused by over-watering.
  • Powdery Mildew: Manage moisture and improve air circulation.

Nutrition

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
  • Supports digestive health and serves as a natural remedy for sore throats.

Nutritional Composition (per 100g)

Nutritional ComponentAmount
Calories315 kcal
Protein10.6 g
Fat6.7 g
Carbohydrates60.7 g
Fiber40.3 g
Vitamin K171.6 �g
Calcium1681 mg
Iron28.1 mg

Varieties of Sage

  • Common Sage (Salvia officinalis)
  • Purple Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Purpurascens')
  • Tricolor Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Tricolor')
  • Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans)
  • Golden Sage (Salvia officinalis 'Icterina')

Health Benefits

  • May help improve memory and cognitive function.
  • Contains antimicrobial properties.
  • Can help alleviate digestive disorders.

Fun Facts

  • The word 'sage' comes from the Latin 'salvia', meaning "to be saved," highlighting its medicinal properties.
  • Sage has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
  • It is often included in rituals and smudging practices for its cleansing properties.