Essential Oil Spotlight: Clary Sage

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) essential oil is steam-distilled from the flowering plant. Clary sage can be identified by its herbaceous, spicy, and hay-like aroma. This essential oil possesses anticonvulsant, antifungal, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, nerve tonic, sedative, soothing, tonic, and warming health properties. Clary sage primarily affects the body’s hormonal system.

In the Middle Ages, clary sage was nicknamed “clear eyes” for its ability to clear eye problems. During that time it was also widely used for female complaints, kidney/digestive/skin disorders, inflammation, sore throats, and wounds. The French have long used this oil to aid with bronchitis, cholesterol, frigidity, genitalia, impotence, menstrual cramps, and weak digestion.

Today, clary sage essential oil is commonly used to help with the following health conditions: aneurysm, breast enlargement, convulsions, cramps, emotional stress, endometriosis, epilepsy, estrogen balance, hair (fragile), hormonal balance, hot flashes, infection, infertility, insomnia, lactation (start milk production), mood swings, muscle fatigue, Parkinson’s disease, PMS, postpartum depression, premenopause, and seizures.

Applications of Clary Sage Essential Oil and Safety Data:

Topical Application: Clary sage can be applied neat (with no dilution). Apply to reflex points and/or directly on the area of concern.
Aromatic Application: Diffuse, or inhale the aroma directly. The aroma of clary sage may calm and enhance the dream state, helping to bring about a feeling of euphoria.
Internal Application: Clary sage is recognized as safe for human consumption by the FDA and can be taken in capsules or used as a flavoring agent.
Safety Data: Should not be taken internally by children under 6 years old, and should be taken with caution and in greater dilution by children 6 years old and older. Use with caution during pregnancy. Not for babies. Avoid using this oil during and after consumption of alcohol.

Ways to Use Clary Sage Essential Oil:

1. Hot Flashes
Clary sage essential oil affects the hormonal system, making it a powerful tool when you’re experiencing hot flashes. Simply add 5 drops clary sage to 1 Tbsp. (15 ml) jojoba oil, and add the mixture to bathwater as a relaxing bath oil.
2. Diffuse
The strong, herbaceous aroma of this essential oil adds an amazing new level to your diffuser blends. Here are a few you can try out!

3. Menstrual Cramps
Clary Sage is great for alleviating bloating and cramps caused by your menstrual cycle. Combine 3 drops clary sage, 3 drops grapefruit, and 2 drops lavender in a 5 ml roll-on bottle, and top off with 1 tsp. (5 ml) carrier oil of your choice. Apply the blend on location whenever needed.
4. Hormone Balance
Taking essential oils internally can be an effective way to receive their benefits quickly. Balancing your hormones can be tricky, but essential oils are great to keep them in check. Place 2 drops of each rosemary, frankincense, and clary sage in an empty capsule. If desired, fill the remainder of the capsule with olive oil. Take internally 1–2 times a day, or as needed.

5. Hair Care
This essential oil is known for its ability to help strengthen fragile and thinning hair. It can be a great addition to your shampoo and conditioner, or you can click here for a recipe to make your own natural shampoo and conditioner. It’s completely customizable depending on your specific hair needs.

Source:
Modern Essentials: The Complete Guide to the Therapeutic Use of Essential Oils, 9th Edition, pp. 51–52.