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Clary Sage Oil: Unlocking Its Research-Backed Benefits and Uses

By Dr. Shubham Pandey +2 more

Key Highlights: 

  • Clary sage oil, derived from the clary sage plant, has numerous potential health benefits. 
  • Potential uses include stress reduction, antibacterial action, and natural antidepressant properties. 
  • May alleviate menopause symptoms, as well as reduce menstrual cramps when applied topically. 
  • Various methods of using clary sage oil include aromatherapy, topical application, use as a massage oil, and inhaling for respiratory health. 
  • Consult a healthcare professional before using this essential oil to ensure safety and proper use. 

Introduction 

Clary sage oil is an essential oil from the leaves and buds of the clary sage plant from the Mediterranean. It’s known for its fresh scent and multiple potential health benefits. It’s being recognized more and more in the world of natural solutions for its antistress and bacteria-fighting qualities. This article will uncover all the research-backed ways that clary sage oil may benefit your health. Lastly, we will answer some frequently asked questions regarding this topic.  

Researchers have discovered that clary sage extract might be a useful treatment for a gum problem called periodontitis, which causes inflammation in the gums. I would recommend taking proper medical consultation to avoid unwanted effects.

clary sage oil

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD

Did you know?

  • Clary sage oil may be used as an active natural antimicrobial agent in formulations for treating wounds and skin infections. source: PMC
  • Linalool and linalyl acetate, the major compounds in clary sage oil, have anti-inflammatory activity. source: PMC
  • Essential oils, including clary sage oil, have been used in the treatment of respiratory tract, digestive system, and skin infections. source: PMC
  • Clary sage oil may be applied in the treatment of cardiovascular and nervous system disorders and to reduce cholesterol and regulate glucose levels. source: PMC
  • Clary sage oil has strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus clinical strains responsible for wound infections. source: PMC

Potential Benefits of Clary Sage Oil 

It’s common knowledge that essential oils are health powerhouses. Clary sage oil is no different. We’ll explore its potential benefits in areas such as lowering stress, fighting off bacteria, promoting balance in hormone levels, and boosting mood. 

1. Stress Reduction 

Clary sage oil may help with managing stress. 

  • How Does Clary Sage Oil Affects Stress Levels? 

Thanks to its soothing scent, clary sage oil may help reduce stress. Our sense of smell plays a significant role in soothing our mind. Aromatherapy with this oil may lead to a peace of mind and less stress. 

  • Studies Supporting Its Use in Stress Reduction 

Tests have shown that clary sage oil may bring down stress levels. In a small study, women sniffing the oil felt more relaxed and even had lower blood pressure. Used the right way, this oil may effectively reduce stress and calm the mind.  More studies are needed to corroborate these findings.  

2. Antibacterial Properties 

Clary sage oil is proposed to be able to fight against harmful bacteria.  

  • Combatting Bacterial Infections 

Clary sage oil may help manage different kinds of infections. It may help the body’s defenses against infections. Thus, it may help support  other methods of managing infections and help in faster recovery.  

  • Research on Its Antibacterial Efficacy 

Laboratory tests have shown that clary sage oil proves useful against many types of bacteria. A study confirmed that it’s good for severe skin infections caused by various Staphylococcus strains. This found that clary sage oil may work well along with other methods of wound care. 

Recent research indicates that inhaling clary sage oil may significantly lower blood pressure and induce a calming effect on breathing in women, potentially assisting in controlling involuntary urine leakage associated with urinary incontinence. Despite this evidence, I recommend you to consult your doctor before using it as high blood pressure treatment.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

3. Natural Antidepressant 

The uplifting scent of clary sage oil may be a mood lifter. 

  • Chemical Composition and Antidepressant Effects 

Dopamine plays a part in controlling mood and pleasure. Studies suggest that clary sage oil may help the release of dopamine. This combats depressive feelings and promotes happiness and peace of mind. 

  • Clinical Evidence and Studies 

Research supports the use of clary sage oil as a natural antidepressant. One study showed it had a positive effect against stress in rats. Another showed that breathing in clary sage oil brought down stress hormone levels in women during menopause. This leads to an antidepressant-like effect. More research probing into this is needed.   

To my knowledge, sage plants contain certain compounds that might potentially enhance memory, increase alertness, and offer possible benefits in fighting against Alzheimer’s disease. In my opinion, one may consider consuming the clary sage oil with doctor’s guidance.

Dr. Smita barode, BAMS

4. Alleviation of Menopause Symptoms 

Menopause can bring discomfort and hot flashes, but clary sage oil may be able to help. 

  • Effect on Hormone Levels 

A substance called sclareol in the oil works like estrogen in the body. Hence, clary sage oil may help relieve the symptoms of menopause linked to hormonal imbalances. Research indicates that applying some diluted clary sage oil on your feet may help ease hot flashes. 

  • Studies Examining Menopause Symptom Relief 

Studies show that clary sage oil may reduce menopause symptoms. One study observed that applying the oil on the skin led to notable reductions in both the number and severity of hot flashes.  

5. Reducing Menstrual Cramps 

Clary sage oil may provide some much-needed relief in the matter of menstrual cramps. 

  • Mechanism of Action for Pain Relief 

Clary sage oil is proposed to have a natural painkiller effect. This may help loosen muscles and lower inflammation. Use it as a massage oil or cream, and it may give relief from crippling cramps by targeting the specific areas. 

  • Research on Its Effectiveness in Reducing Menstrual Pain 

In one study, 48 women with painful menstruation used a cream with clary sage oil and other essential oils. It was placed on their lower bellies daily between periods. The women who used it found significant relief from menstrual cramp pain. 

It is advised to always consult with your doctor before incorporating clary sage oil into your health journey.  

Research has indicated that clary sage oil might be a potential management for individuals dealing with depression, linked to its impact on the feel-good hormone dopamine. While in my view, utilizing clary sage oil might help alleviate mild stress, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice for managing chronic stress and depression.

Dr. Anuja Bodhare, MD

Uses  of Clary Sage Oil  

Clary sage oil may be used in the following ways based on what it is being used for.  

1. Aromatherapy and Stress Management 

The soothing scent of clary sage oil may be used in aromatherapy. It helps steady emotions and promotes calmness. It may help create a serene mood which brings down stress and fosters mental peace. 

2. Topical Application for Skin Care 

Clary sage oil could be a great addition to your skincare drill. You may apply some diluted clary sage oil to help manage zits, avoid redness, and get a healthy glow. 

3. Massage Oil for Muscle Relaxation 

Adding clary sage oil to your massage oil blend may lower muscle tightness and increases relaxation. It may also help tackle localized discomfort, such as menstrual cramps or joint pain. 

4. Inhaling for Respiratory Health 

Taking a deep breath of clary sage oil’s fresh scent may give a boost to respiratory health. As a gentle expectorant, it may help clear blockage and promote good breathing. 

How to Use Clary Sage Oil? 

To start benefiting from clary sage oil, you should know the best ways to use this powerful potion. These are described below.  

1. Dilution Ratios and Safety Guidelines 

Before diving in, discuss with a healthcare professional. Make sure you dilute the oil in a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil. A good ratio is three to five drops of clary sage oil per ounce of carrier oil. 

2. Applying Topically 

You can apply diluted clary sage oil directly to the skin for targeted relief. It also works well as part of a massage oil for full-body relaxation. If menstrual cramps are troubling you, just massage the blend onto your lower belly. 

3. Inhaling and Diffusing 

Sniff right from the bottle or use an essential oil diffuser to spread the scent across a space. Blend clary sage oil with other calming oils such as lavender or chamomile. 

4. Clary Sage Oil Blends 

Mix and match clary sage oil with other soothing essential oils. Go on and create a unique, calming aroma. A mix of calming lavender, invigorating citrus scents, or eucalyptus could be your ideal aromatic escape. 

Also Read: Rosehip Oil Benefits: Unraveling the Science Behind its Usage

Side Effects and Precautions 

Though clary sage oil is mostly safe, it’s best to know about possible side effects and take precautions. 

Potential Side Effects 

Always do a patch test before putting diluted clary sage oil on large skin areas. This way, you can check for any adverse allergic reaction. If your blood pressure is low, be careful when using clary sage oil as it might decrease it even further. 

Who Should Avoid Clary Sage Oil 

Check with a healthcare professional before adding clary sage oil to your wellness routine. They’ll ensure that the oil is suitable for you and won’t clash with any current  medications that you may be on. 

Spiritual Use of Clary Sage Oil 

Clary sage oil is supposed to carry spiritual weight beyond its physical healing properties. 

Historical and Cultural Significance 

Clary sage oil has a rich history of helping purify spaces and promoting mental clarity in many spiritual feats and cultural rites. It may also aid spiritual growth.  

Clary Sage in Meditation and Energy Work 

It may be used to enhance your meditation practices or energy work. It is said to help you get deep into your inner self and boost your spiritual knowledge. Its calming scent is said to promote a peace-filled space ideal for meditation and personal growth. 

Conclusion 

Clary sage oil really covers a broad spectrum of potential benefits. It may help reduce stress, lifts mood, fight bacterial infections, and eases menstrual pain. It’s so versatile it may be part of aromatherapy, topical applications or spiritual practices. This oil is said to boost our overall well-being. 

Always consult with your doctor before starting to use clary sage oil and always keep the possible side effects in mind and take necessary precautions so as to be able to enjoy its potential benefits safely.  

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) 

When should you not use clary sage oil? 

Avoid applying clary sage oil directly to the eyes, nose, or mouth without talking to a healthcare professional. If your blood pressure is low or if you’re pregnant, talk to your doctor before using this. 

Can I rub clary sage oil on my belly? 

Yes, you may. Apply some diluted clary sage oil to your belly area to get relief from period cramps or discomfort. However, first do a small patch test to avoid any allergies or sensitive reactions. 

How should I dilute clary sage oil for correct use? 

Use three to five drops of clary sage oil matched with one ounce of carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil. 

Can clary sage oil be used in pregnancy? 

Talk to a healthcare professional before using clary sage oil during pregnancy. Some essential oils may not be suitable for pregnant women. 

How long does it take to see the effects of clary sage oil? 

The effects can vary based on the person and how it’s used. For example, the calming effects may be felt very quickly when it’s used in aromatherapy or put on your skin. 

References: 

  1. PubMed. Clary Sage Essential Oil and Its Effect on Human Mood and Pulse Rate: An in vivo Pilot Study [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32688401 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Randomized controlled trial for Salvia sclarea or Lavandula angustifolia: differential effects on blood pressure in female patients with urinary incontinence undergoing urodynamic examination [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23360656 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). The effect of clary sage oil on staphylococci responsible for wound infections [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4360007 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Antidepressant-like effect of Salvia sclarea is explained by modulation of dopamine activities in rats [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20441789 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Changes in 5-hydroxytryptamine and cortisol plasma levels in menopausal women after inhalation of clary sage oil [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24802524 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). <a href=”https://ncbiinsights.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/” target=”_blank”>NCBI Insights</a> [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/labs/articles/22435409 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Randomized Controlled Trial for Salvia sclarea or Lavandula angustifolia : Differential Effects on Blood Pressure in Female Patients with Urinary Incontinence Undergoing Urodynamic Examination [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3700459 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Effects of essential oil exposure on salivary estrogen concentration in perimenopausal women [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28326753 
  1. ScienceDirect. Changes in the fatty acid compositions and bioactivities of clary sage seeds depending on harvest year [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S092666901200091X 
  1. ScienceDirect. Ethnopharmacological communication [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874110002667 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Anti-inflammatory effect of the Salvia sclarea L. ethanolic extract on lipopolysaccharide-induced periodontitis in rats [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28093319 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Salvia (Sage): A Review of its Potential Cognitive-Enhancing and Protective Effects [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5318325 
  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Antimicrobial activity and mechanisms of Salvia sclarea essential oil [Internet]. [cited 2023 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5432889 

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