Evidence supporting the use of: Sage
For the health condition: Congestion (sinus)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Sage (Salvia officinalis) has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory conditions such as sinus congestion. In folk medicine, sage leaves have often been used in steam inhalations or as herbal teas to help relieve symptoms of colds, sore throats, and sinus congestion. The traditional rationale for its use comes from sage’s aromatic properties, which are believed to help open nasal passages and ease breathing. Additionally, sage contains essential oils such as thujone, camphor, and cineole, which have mild antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects. However, while these properties are well-documented in vitro and in animal studies, direct clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of sage specifically for sinus congestion in humans is limited. Most modern scientific studies focus on sage’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, or its use for sore throat and oral health, rather than sinus congestion per se. Therefore, while sage continues to be used in traditional herbalism for this purpose, its use for sinus congestion is supported more by tradition and anecdote than by robust clinical trials. As a result, the evidence rating for its effectiveness in this context is moderate to low.

More about sage
More about Congestion (sinus)