Clary Sage Oil

Clary sage is an essential oil, extracted via the steam distillation of the leaves and buds of the clary sage plant; Salvia sclarea. This pale, yellowish-golden oil has a somewhat sweet and nutty fragrance to it. It comprises components such as alpha terpineol, linalool, neryl acetate, geraniol, sclareol, caryophyllene, germacrene D, and linalyl acetate.

Apparently believed to be a native of Europe, this herb is touted for its numerous medicinal benefits. In the Middle Ages, its oil was used to treat menstrual, uterine, and digestive problems. Today, this plant is cultivated all across the globe, and is added to toothpastes, shaving creams, lotions, eyewashes, shampoos, etc.

Clary sage oil is well-known for its aphrodisiac, sedative, antiseptic, antifungal, digestive, regenerative, antidepressant, deodorant, and hormone-like properties. This is why it is commonly used in aromatherapy, even though it's quite expensive.

One of the names of clary sage oil is 'clear eye', which clearly indicates that the oil good for the eye. In the Middle Ages, this oil was referred to as 'Oculus Christi', meaning 'Eye of Christ', due to its remarkable ability to cure eye problems.

It keeps eye infections at bay and also soothes the eyes in case of inflammation. Moreover, it improves vision and reduces onset of macular degeneration due to aging. This is why this oil is added to eyewashes. However, it is important to note that it shouldn't be applied directly to your eyes.

This oil is known for its stress-relieving properties. It works on the hypothalamus of the brain and alleviates anxiety, stress, and fear. Adding a few drops of oil to an oil burner and placing it in the room will help the mind relax. It calms one's emotions and nerves. Moreover, its sedative properties help reduce insomnia. Just add a few drops of it to the bath before bedtime. You could also add a drop or two of this oil onto your wrists to enjoy its relaxing effects.

This essential oil claims to stimulate hair growth, reverse hair loss, and restore the lost sheen. Since this oil blends well with other essential oils, prepare a hair-nourishing blend by mixing 2 tablespoons of clary sage oil to 3 tablespoons of coconut oil, 1 tablespoon of jasmine oil, and 6 drops of ylang-ylang oil. Apply and massage well. After half an hour, wash the oil off with a shampoo and conditioner.

Clary sage oil stimulates the action of the female hormone, estrogen, which is why it is used to treat menstrual problems, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, hot flashes, etc. Adding 3 drops of this oil to a warm compress, and placing it on the abdomen helps relieve menstrual cramping.

Another noteworthy property of this oil, is its ability to intensify uterine contractions during labor. A cotton ball dipped in clary sage oil is placed under the pillow to help the mother relax during labor. However, this depends on whether she can stand the smell of this oil, because many women have an aversion towards it. Since clary sage oil induces uterine contractions, it is important not to use it during pregnancy.

Besides these medicinal benefits, clary sage oil is also used to treat acne, dandruff, frigidity, impotence, high blood pressure, insect bites, migraines, whooping-cough, etc. Nevertheless, always make sure you consult your health care provider or herbalist before using this oil.

Disclaimer: This Story is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.