- History of Clary Sage Oil
- Benefits of Clary Sage Oil
- Uses of Clary Sage Oil
- Clary Sage Oil Varieties
- Contraindications For Clary Sage Oil
IN ESSENCE…
- Clary Sage Essential Oil is derived from the Salvia sclarea herb.
- Clary Sage Essential Oil has earned the nickname “The Woman’s Oil,” due to its benefits for women’s health, especially in relation to menstruation and menopause.
- Used in aromatherapy applications, Clary Sage Essential Oil has sedative abilities that induce feelings of relaxation, clarity, and calmness while alleviating dizziness, anxiety, and irritability. It is also known to stimulate libido in both men and women.
- Used cosmetically or topically in general, Clary Sage Essential Oil exhibits a cooling property that soothes skin afflicted with inflammation. It calms rashes, balances the production of natural oil and sebum, and strengthens the skin and muscles.
- Used medicinally, Clary Sage Essential Oil eliminates or prevents the spread of harmful bacteria, facilitates the healing of wounds, and addresses muscle aches, joint pain, strains, and sprains. It enhances circulation and is reputed to stimulate and regulate the menstrual cycle.
HISTORY OF CLARY SAGE OIL
Derived from the celebrated medicinal Salvia sclarea herb, which is native to Italy, Southern France, and Syria, Clary Sage Oil receives its name from the Latin word “clarus,” meaning “clarifying” or “cleansing.” Historically, the seeds of this plant were believed to contribute to the health of the eyes and to improve vision, hence it earned a name meaning “clear eye” or “bright eye.”
Although it is largely used in the flavoring of food, beverages, and in perfumery, Clary Sage Essential Oil came to be used in natural cosmetics for its ability to soothe skin. In medicinal applications, it was known to address female hormone-related complaints, such as nervous tension and negative emotions, hence earning another nickname: “The Woman’s Oil.” Having traditionally been used to flavor Muscatel Wine, the sweetly herbaceous extract also earned the name Muscatel Oil.
BENEFITS OF CLARY SAGE OIL
The main chemical constituents of Clary Sage Bark Essential Oil are: Linalyl Acetate, Linalool, Germacrene-D, alpha-Terpineol, and Sclareol.
LINALYL ACETATE is known to be (a)n):
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Analgesic
- Hypotensive
LINALOOL is known to be (a)n):
- Sedative
- Anti-depressant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-anxiety
- Anti-epileptic
- Analgesic
- Sedative
GERMACRENE-D is known to be (a)n):
- Anti-microbial
- Anti-bacterial
- Anti-fungal
- Anti-septic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Stimulant
ALPHA-TERPINEOL is known to be (a)n):
- Sedative
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antibiotic
- Antioxidant
- Anxiolytic
- Antimicrobial
- Antifungal
SCLAREOL is known to be (a)n):
- Antimicrobial
- Effective in diminishing pain, cramps, night sweats, and hot flashes
- Beneficial for balancing hormones
Its nervine and anti-inflammatory properties promote restful sleep and soothe headaches, respectively, and its uplifting qualities enhance the mood to improve self-esteem and mental strength and to stimulate libido in both men and women. Its anti-spasmodic properties help relieve the sometimes-convulsive discomforts associated with improper digestion, stomach aches, muscle cramps, coughs, and cholera. Furthermore, Clary Sage Oil decreases the symptoms of a cough and cold, effectively deodorizes unpleasant body odors, and supports the balance of hormones.
Used cosmetically or topically in general, Clary Sage Essential Oil is suited to both oily and dry skin types. It exhibits a cooling property that soothes skin afflicted with inflammation and it calms rashes. Its balancing property stabilizes the production of natural oil and sebum to prevent acne breakouts. Its rich antioxidant content tones, tightens, and strengthens the skin and muscles while fortifying hair to reduce hair loss.
Used medicinally, Clary Sage Essential Oil works to eliminate or prevent the spread of harmful bacteria that can promote the development of fungal infections. When applied to wounds, bruises, burns, and irritations, it is known to prevent them from becoming septic, thereby facilitating the healing process. Its anti-inflammatory and stimulating properties make it beneficial for use in addressing muscle aches, joint pain, strains, and sprains. It is also valuable for enhancing circulation, which strengthens the digestive system. With carminative properties, Clary Sage Oil can prevent flatulence and facilitate the body’s elimination of gas in order to decrease the discomfort associated with bloating. When used to address physical ailments related to menstruation, Clary Sage Oil is believed to stimulate and regulate the cycle while reducing any pain, such as cramping.
As illustrated, Clary Sage Oil is reputed to have many therapeutic properties. The following highlights its many benefits and the kinds of activity it is believed to show:
- COSMETIC: Astringent, Deodorant, Anti-inflammatory.
- ODOROUS: Anti-depressant, Anti-convulsant, Anti-spasmodic, Aphrodisiac, Deodorant, Digestive, Emmenagogue, Euphoric, Sedative, Warming.
- MEDICINAL: Anti-septic, Astringent, Bactericidal, Carminative, Digestive, Emmenagogue, Hypotensive, Nervine, Stomachic, Anti-inflammatory, Warming, Analgesic.
USES OF CLARY SAGE OIL
Used in aromatherapy applications, the scent of Clary Sage Essential Oil can ease stress when 2-3 drops are diffused. For a diffuser blend that is enriched with other mood-enhancing essential oils, combine 3 drops Clary Sage Essential Oil, 2 drops Orange Essential Oil, 2 drops Ginger Essential Oil, and 1 drop Bergamot Essential Oil.
Furthermore, Clary Sage Oil is known to contribute a deeper sense of concentration and spirituality, when diffused during prayer, meditation, or other devotional practices. For an enhanced state of awareness and attentiveness, 6 drops of Clary Sage Essential Oil can be blended with 2 drops of either Frankincense or Orange essential oils before being added to a diffuser. Alternatively, a roll-on Meditation Perfume Blend can be made by combining 2 drops Frankincense Essential Oil, 2 drops Melissa Essential Oil, 2 drops Clary Sage Essential Oil, 2 drops Sandalwood Essential Oil, and 2 drops Orange Essential Oil in a 5 ml roller bottle. The rest of the bottle can be filled with a Carrier Oil of personal preference. To use this blend, dab a dime-size amount onto the wrist and rub it in, then proceed with the spiritual practice.
For a blend that enhances the mood with the added benefit of easing joint pain, 3-5 drops of Clary Sage Essential Oil can be diluted in a carrier oil of personal preference then added to a tub filled with warm water. This aromatic, stress-relieving soak is reputed to promote restful sleep for those suffering from insomnia. Alternatively, 3-4 drops may be diffused in a bedroom for a few minutes before going to sleep.
For an uplifting room spray that will keep negative moods at bay, pour 45 ml (1.5 oz.) Witch Hazel Distillate into a 120 ml (4 oz.) spray bottle. To this, add 15 drops Clary Sage Essential Oil, 10 drops Bergamot Essential Oil, and 10 drops Sandalwood Essential Oil then add 1.5 oz. distilled water. Twist the spray bottle cap back on and shake the bottle to thoroughly combine all the ingredients. Spray this blend into a bedroom or any other indoor environment to enhance the mood and promote relaxation. For a refreshing, deodorizing room spray, combine ½ cup Witch Hazel Distillate, ¼ cup Aloe Vera Gel, ¼ tsp. Baking Soda, and 10 drops Clary Sage Essential Oil in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle well before spraying it into the air.
Used in cosmetic applications, Clary Sage Essential Oil is known to encourage the growth of clearer, smoother, calmer skin. To make a moisturizer with anesthetic effects that addresses redness and inflammation while soothing sore muscles, add 1-3 drops of Clary Sage Oil to a regular face cream or body lotion before massaging it in.
For a natural face wash that is ideal for use on acne-prone or congested skin, combine 20 drops of Clary Sage Essential Oil, 1 Tbsp. Coconut Carrier Oil, 3 Tbsp. Raw Honey, 2 capsules of live probiotics, and 1 Tbsp. Apple Cider Vinegar in a bowl. Using a hand blender, thoroughly mix together all the ingredients, then pour the blend into a bottle and store it in a cool place when not in use. Regular use of this astringent, anti-bacterial face wash is reputed to reduce and prevent acne breakouts.
Used in hair, Clary Sage Essential Oil is known to stimulate the growth of healthier, stronger strands while eliminating dandruff and preventing the production of excessive natural oils and sebum on the scalp. For an anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial scalp massage blend that addresses the problem of dandruff, dilute 5-6 drops of Clary Sage Essential Oil in 1 Tbsp. of gently heated Coconut Carrier Oil. Before showering, massage this blend into the scalp and allow it to soak for 30 minutes before washing it out with a regular shampoo.
Used in medicinal applications, Clary Sage Essential Oil is known to diminish pain, promote easier breathing, and balance the mood. For a massage blend that relieves cramps and pain, dilute 5 drops of Clary Sage Essential Oil with 5 drops of Jojoba Carrier Oil and massage it into the affected areas. For a blend enriched with more pain-relieving oils, dilute a blend of 6 drops Clary Sage Essential Oil, 4 drops Angelica Root CO2 Essential Oil, 4 drops Cardamom Essential Oil, and 4 drops Roman Chamomile Essential Oil in 30 ml Marula Carrier Oil. Massage this blend into the abdomen for relief from piercing pains and muscle contractions.
For an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory massage blend that facilitates the healing of wounds and soothes aching joints, dilute 6 drops of Clary Sage Oil in 30 ml (1 oz.) of Coconut Carrier Oil or Jojoba Carrier Oil, and rub the blend into the affected area or apply it to a larger area of skin in an aromatherapy massage.
For a chest rub that soothes symptoms of respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia, simply dilute 2-4 drops of Clary Sage Essential Oil in 1 Tbsp. of Almond Carrier Oil. Gently massage this blend into the chest for relief from coughing, wheezing, congestion, and tightness.
A GUIDE TO CLARY SAGE OIL VARIETIES & THEIR BENEFITS
CLARY SAGE ESSENTIAL OIL (FRANCE), CLARY SAGE ESSENTIAL OIL (MOLDOVA), and CLARY SAGE ORGANIC ESSENTIAL OIL (FRANCE)
Botanical Name: Salvia sclarea L.
Method of Extraction and Plant Part: Steam Distilled from Leaves and/or Flowers
Countries of Origin: France / Moldova
Believed to:
- Ease stress, nervous tension, and negative moods that are often caused by hormonal imbalances
- Have a calming effect on body and mind, which promotes relaxation
- Have a cooling and comforting effect on the body
- Reduce the discomforts of muscle stiffness, headaches, and back pain
- Contribute cleansing and protective properties to wounds to facilitate healing
- Stimulate hair growth and regulate the scalp’s production of oil and sebum while eliminating dandruff
- Promote skin health by addressing acne, oil production, and inflammation
- Relieve symptoms of fatigue
- Help soothe the throat and respiratory system, especially in individuals who suffer from asthma
- Stimulate and improve both digestion and memory
- Have an aphrodisiac effect
- Cleanse, detoxify, and balance the body’s systems
- Have a warming effect
- Promote perspiration to facilitate detoxification
- Address the problem of water retention
CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR CLARY SAGE OIL
As per NAHA guidelines, New Directions Aromatics (NDA) does not recommend the ingestion of essential oils. It is imperative to consult a medical practitioner before using this oil for therapeutic purposes. Pregnant and nursing women are especially advised not to use Clary Sage Essential Oil without the medical advice of a physician. Those taking prescription drugs or undergoing major surgery are also advised to seek medical consultation prior to use. The oil should always be stored in an area that is inaccessible to children, especially those under the age of 7.
Prior to using Clary Sage Oil, a skin test is recommended. This can be done by diluting 1 drop of the Essential Oil in 4 drops of a Carrier Oil and applying a dime-size amount of this blend to a small area of skin that is not sensitive. Clary Sage Oil must never be used near the eyes, inner nose, and ears, or on any other particularly sensitive areas of skin.
A potential side effect of Clary Sage Essential Oil is headaches. If used in conjunction with alcohol or narcotics, it is known to sometimes increase the intoxicating effects, and it may possibly cause insomnia or vivid dreams. Alternatively, its sedative properties may interact with and enhance the effects of sleep-related medication such as Chloral Hydrate and Hexobarbitone. Those with health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, low blood pressure, heart disease or other heart-related ailments, peptic ulcers, liver damage, bleeding disorders such as hemophilia, skin disorders, or estrogen-related ailments are especially recommended to be advised. Clary Sage Oil may potentially react with certain medications, such as diabetes medication or anticoagulant medication, and may cause dyspnea.
Those seeking medical care to manage moods, behaviors, or disorders should treat this essential oil as a complementary remedy rather than a replacement for any medicinal treatments or prescriptions. It is recommended that direct sunlight be avoided for up to 12 hours after using this essential oil.
In the event of an allergic reaction, discontinue use of the product and see a doctor, pharmacist, or allergist immediately for a health assessment and appropriate remedial action. To prevent side effects, consult with a medical professional prior to use.
