Sage

🌿 What is Sage?
Sage is an aromatic herb from the mint family, known for its earthy, slightly peppery flavor. It’s commonly used in poultry seasoning, stuffing, roasted dishes, and herbal teas. Sage contains natural essential oils and plant compounds that contribute to its strong aroma and flavor.

🤔 Why Might a Sensitivity to Sage Occur?

Sensitivity to sage may occur due to:

• Essential oils: Sage contains concentrated volatile oils that may irritate sensitive digestive or immune systems.

• Thujone: A naturally occurring compound in sage that may be difficult for some individuals to process.

• Unique proteins: Sage has plant proteins that may trigger reactions in certain sensitive individuals.

🛠️ What Can I Do About It?

• Avoid sage and products containing it for 8 weeks.

• Check ingredient labels—sage appears in spice blends, seasoning packets, marinades, and herbal teas.

• After 8 weeks, gradually reintroduce sage to assess your tolerance.

💊 Supportive General Supplements

Consider:

• Digestive Enzymes: Support the breakdown of plant-based compounds.

• Probiotics: Promote a healthy gut environment and support digestion.

• Quercetin: Helps support a calm, balanced inflammatory response.

🌟 Why Might I Have a Sensitivity to Sage but Not Other Herbs?

Key differences include:

• Thujone content: Sage contains thujone, which is not present in most common herbs.

• Potent essential oils: Sage’s volatile oils are stronger than those in milder herbs like parsley or basil.

• Different protein structure: Sage proteins differ from those in herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary.

🍽️ Popular Dishes with Sage

• Stuffing and roasted poultry

• Sage-infused butter for pasta or gnocchi

• Herbal teas and warm spice blends

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)

• Thyme

• Rosemary

• Oregano

• Tarragon