What Gives Sage Its Power?

Sage contains several groups of natural compounds, and – just like peppermint – its extracts and essential oil are chemically quite different.

Alcoholic and hydroalcoholic extracts of Salvia officinalis are particularly rich in polyphenols. One of the most important is rosmarinic acid, accompanied by caffeic acid derivatives. Sage also contains carnosic acid and carnosol, characteristic compounds that contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Smaller amounts of flavonoids such as luteolin and apigenin derivatives are also present.

Sage essential oil has a very different composition. Its major constituents typically include thujones, camphor and 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol). These volatile compounds contribute to the characteristic aroma and biological activity of sage oil.

The exact composition is not always the same. Genetics, geographical origin, growing conditions and harvest time can all influence the balance of compounds in the essential oil. This is particularly important for sage because some constituents, especially thujone, are relevant not only to its biological effects but also to its safety.