Spanish Sage

Spanish Sage is a small evergreen shrub that has grown wild for centuries in Spain and Southern France. It likes dry rocky places and exudes the scent of Sage and Spike Lavender. Hence it is also regarded as Lavender Sage. To my nose, I get Lavender, Sage and Rosemary all wrapped up together. A gorgeously herbaceous aroma that reminds walking the hot herb laden rocky hills of Southern France in the summertime.

In Spain, Spanish Sage has been regarded as a kind of ‘cure all’. Used to promote longevity, protect against colds and flus, to clear infections, to promote healthy hair growth, to help with headaches and to reduce anxiety.

Spanish Sage’s effect on memory and cognitive responses makes it an excellent essential oil choice to diffuse when studying or preparing for exams.  In fact, the effect Spanish Sage oil has on the brain’s cognitive response mechanism is well documented in a study performed by the Human Cognitive Neuroscience Division of Psychology at Northumbria University in Newcastle, UK., titled “Salvia lavandulaefolia (Spanish sage) enhances memory in healthy young volunteers”. Because of this study, it has prompted the initiation of other medical reviews looking into the benefits Spanish Sage essential oil may have with Alzheimer’s Disease.

We all could use a bit of that! I’m thinking a bit of Rosemary with the Spanish Sage and maybe a bit of Peppermint thrown in for a little brain tweak pick me up. Or blended with some Sweet Marjoram, Lavender and Basil for a soothing muscle rub. The possibilities are endless. Spanish Sage is a very versatile essential oil. A welcome addition to anybody’s aromatherapy tool kit.