Clary Sage Essential Oil: Applications, Potential Adverse Effects, and Advantages
In the realm of natural health remedies, clary sage oil, scientifically known as Salvia sclarea, has been gaining attention for its potential benefits. Native to the northern Mediterranean Basin, this versatile plant offers a range of uses, from aromatherapy to topical applications.
Clary sage oil is renowned for its calming properties, particularly in reducing stress and anxiety levels. Studies have shown that aromatherapy using clary sage oil can promote relaxation and lower stress and anxiety levels, making it beneficial for mental health [1][3]. This tranquillising effect is associated with the oil’s ability to reduce cortisol, the primary stress hormone, thereby calming the cardiovascular system [1][3].
Moreover, research indicates that inhaling clary sage oil can contribute to a decrease in blood pressure. This is due to the oil’s relaxing properties, which can help lower heart rate and blood pressure [1][3].
The oil's potential benefits extend to mental function as well. The reduction in cortisol and induction of a calmer mood through clary sage oil inhalation may support improved emotional regulation and mental function, although direct evidence on cognitive enhancement is limited [1].
In addition to its mental health benefits, clary sage oil may have significant anti-inflammatory effects. Although direct studies on clary sage oil’s anti-inflammatory effects are less prominent, other essential oils with similar compounds (like oregano oil) have shown anti-inflammatory benefits in animal and in vitro studies. Clary sage oil’s impact on reducing stress hormones might indirectly help mitigate inflammation since stress can exacerbate inflammatory responses [5].
One area where clary sage oil shows particular promise is in addressing depression. Animal studies, particularly one on rats, suggest that clary sage oil may act as an anti-depressant, helping to reduce feelings of depression by influencing mood-related pathways [2].
It is essential to note that while the scientific evidence supports the health benefits of clary sage oil, more research, especially human clinical trials, is needed to confirm its efficacy and clarify potential anti-inflammatory and cognitive effects in humans [1][2][3].
Before using clary sage oil, it is recommended to test a small area of skin before applying it to large areas and to avoid using it before driving or operating heavy machinery. It is also important to speak to a healthcare provider before using clary sage oil and to obtain it from a respected supplier, as the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate essential oils [4].
Clary sage oil can be added to carrier oil and rubbed directly onto a wounded area or massaged into the skin. It can also be added to bathwater to soothe sore muscles and improve mood. In alternative health practices, clary sage essential oil is used in aromatherapy, and it can be diffused into the air via an essential oil burner. Clary sage oil can also be added to tea, smoothies, or food for a soothing effect and to help reduce inflammation in the gums [4][6].
In conclusion, the strongest scientific backing for clary sage oil centres on its effects on reducing stress hormones (cortisol), which correlates to lowered anxiety, depression symptoms, and blood pressure, thereby supporting mental and cardiovascular health. While the evidence is promising, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy and clarify potential anti-inflammatory and cognitive effects in humans.
- In the realm of fitness-and-exercise and health-and-wellness, clary sage oil, scientifically known as Salvia sclarea, has been gaining attention for its potential predictive benefits.
- Clary sage oil may benefit workplace-wellness by promoting mental health, as studies have shown that aromatherapy using clary sage oil can lead to relaxed moods and lower stress and depression levels.
- Skin-care practitioners might find Clary sage oil useful, as its anti-inflammatory effects could help manage certain skin conditions.
- Therapies-and-treatments using clary sage oil may provide relief for those struggling with asthma, as some research suggests it can help to reduce inflammation.
- Studies suggest that clary sage oil supplements could aid in obesity management, as they may help reduce stress hormones and promote feelings of fullness.
- As part of a comprehensive approach to health and wellness, clary sage oil may play a role in maintaining cardiovascular health, as its calming properties can help lower blood pressure.
- In addition to its impact on mental health, Clary sage oil's anti-inflammatory properties could have implications for cognitive function, as reducing stress hormones and inflammation might support improved emotional regulation and mental function.
- The use of clary sage essential oil in CBD-based topical treatments could provide an innovative approach for managing painful conditions by combining its calming properties with CBD's anti-inflammatory effects.
- While the scientific evidence supports the health benefits of clary sage oil, more research, especially human clinical trials, is needed to confirm its efficacy and clarify potential anti-inflammatory and cognitive effects in humans.
