Essential Oil Spotlight: Spanish Sage

Spanish sage, also known as sage lavender (Salvia lavandulifolia), is steam distilled from the leaves and stems of the plant. It belongs to the Lamiaceae botanical family. The aroma is herbaceous and camphorous (with camphor as a primary chemical constituent), with a subtle lavender undertone.

Common Primary Uses: Aromatically for alertness, calming, concentration, and mental fatigue. Topically, also, for an uplifting yet calming sense of focus, enhanced memory, and mental rejuvenation. Internally, for these same uses when taken in a beverage.

Other Possible Uses: The people of Spain traditionally consider this oil a folk-medicine “cure all” for colds and flu, muscle aches and arthritis, and skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. It may be beneficial for mitigating Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, balancing hormone levels, promoting menstruation, soothing menstrual pain, and reducing excessive sweating.

Body Systems Affected: Nervous, Hormonal, and Respiratory systems; Emotional Balance, Muscles and Bones; Skin.

Application and Safety Data

Aromatic: Diffuse, or inhale the aroma directly.

Topical: Dilute and apply 1–2 drops to area of concern. Dilute and use in massage oil.

Internal: Generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for human consumption by the FDA. Dilute 1 drop oil in 1 tsp. (5 ml) honey or in 1/2 c. (125 ml) of beverage (e.g., soy/rice milk). Not for children under 6 years; use with caution in in greater dilution for children over 6 years.

Ways to Use Spanish Sage Essential Oil

Diffuser Blends: With its soothing and refreshing aromatic influence, Spanish sage can serve as a nice addition to a diffuser blend. Here are a couple blends for you to try out.

Massage Oils:

Hormone Helper: Along with or instead of diffusion (above), combine 6 drops Spanish sage, 2 drops clary sage, and 2 drops geranium in a 1/3 oz. (15 ml) roll-on vial. Fill remainder with sweet almond oil or fractionated coconut oil (FCO). After each bath or shower, alternate rolling blend among these areas of thin skin: inner, upper arms; inner forearms; inner thighs; behind the knees; and back of neck.

Joint & Muscle Mend: To soothe aches and pains, combine 4 drops Spanish sage, 4 drops marjoram, and 6 crops Roman chamomile a 1/3 oz. (15 ml) roll-on vial. Fill remainder with sweet almond oil or fractionated coconut oil (FCO). Roll on and rub in skin over affected areas.

Bath Salt: Use bath time to relax and rejuvenate with salts and essential oils. Combine 4 drops Spanish sage, 4 drops geranium, and 3 drops ylang ylang in 1/2 c. (4 oz., or 120 ml) Epsom salt and pour under warm running bathwater. Soak for 15 minutes.

Skin Spritzer: Spanish sage oil can help soothe and heal the skin. Combine 8 drops Spanish sage, 5 drops lavender, and 5 drops geranium in a 2 fl. oz. (60 ml) spray bottle. Fill remainder with about 1/4 c. (2 fl. oz., or 60 ml) witch hazel. Spray onto minor cuts and abrasions, areas of skin irritation, and patches of eczema or dermatitis to reduce pain and promote healing.

Source: "Modern Essentials: New 2022 Product Update" Booklet, 14th Edition.