The Zimbabwean Gardener Issue 1 Winter 2012 | Page 18

Sage

Herbs

by Matt Miller

Salvia officinalis, known as Sage or Common sage, has a long and interesting past and, like so
many other herbs, it originates from the Mediterranean region. The word Salvia and sage comes
from the Latin ‘salvare’, meaning to save as it has countless healing properties. It was strongly
adhered to by the Greeks and Romans who associated the herb with wisdom and longevity, as
a result, sage was considered to be a sacred herb. The Romans would therefore have special
ceremonies to collect the herb which they believed to be good for brain function as well as
enhancing their memory.

Medicinal properties

Cooking with Sage

Growing Sage

Throughout history, sage has been used
more for medicinal purposes r ]\