Improving oral and brain health: Antioxidant-rich sage has amazing health benefits

( Natural News ) Sage ( Salvia officinalis ) has been used as an herbal medicine throughout the years. Also known as common sage and garden sage, this staple herb belongs to the mint family, alongside other herbs like basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme. This herb has a strong aroma and earthy flavor, which is why it is often used in small amounts. But no matter the amount, sage is naturally loaded with various nutrients and compounds that offer many health benefits. Sage supports oral and brain health One of the many health benefits of sage is its ability to support oral health. Sage has antimicrobial properties, which kill microbes that cause dental plaque. In a study published in the Iranian Journal of Microbiology , researchers evaluated the effects of a mouthwash containing sage extracts on Streptococcus mutans in school-age children. S. mutans bacteria are known to cause dental cavities. Those who used the sage mouthwash for 21 days experienced great reductions in the number of S. mutans in dental plaque. A lab study, which was published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine , also showed that a sage-based essential oil can kill and stop the spread of Candida albicans , a fungus that may also cause cavities. Another review reported that sage may also treat throat infections, dental abscesses, mouth ulcers, and infected gums. However, more human studies are needed to make comprehensive recommendations. Sage can also improve brain health in many ways. For one, it is packed with antioxidant compounds , such as caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ellagic acid, rosmarinic acid, and rutin – all of which have been reported to improve brain function and memory. Second, sage can suppress the breakdown of acetylcholine (ACH), a chemical messenger that is important in memory formation and […]

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