Sage is one of the most common herbs available in local markets. It is an evergreen subshrub, with woody stems, grayish leaves, and blue to purplish flowers, available in fresh, dried or oil form. As a spice, it has a hint of pepper, and the leaves are used to flavour stews and roasted meat, among other things. Because of its strong aroma, it’s normally used in small amounts. The leaf can also be used for medicinal purposes. David Rukerabigwi, a dietician and nutritionist working with Slim n’ Fit, a weight loss and wellness centre in Kigali, says this herb is used for digestive problems, including loss of appetite, gas (flatulence), stomach pain (gastritis), diarrhoea, bloating, and heartburn. He says it’s also used to reduce overproduction of perspiration and saliva, and for depression, memory loss, and Alzheimer’s disease. Nutritional value Rukerabigwi says sage is loaded with antioxidants that are linked to several health benefits, including improved brain function and lower cancer risk. Antioxidants are molecules that help fortify the body’s defences, neutralising potentially harmful free radicals that are linked to chronic diseases. He notes that studies indicate that sage contains over 160 distinct polyphenols, which are plant-based chemical compounds that act as antioxidants in the body. Sage also contains chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, ellagic acid and rutin, which are all linked to health benefits such as lower risk of cancer and improved brain function and memory. The herb also has antimicrobial effects, which can neutralise microbes that promote dental plaque, thus essential to dental health. Research has shown that consuming sage can help support the brain and memory in several ways. For instance, it’s loaded with compounds that can act as antioxidants, which have been shown to buffer the brain’s defence system. It also appears to halt the breakdown of the chemical messenger acetylcholine (ACH), which has a role in memory. ACH levels appear to fall in Alzheimer’s disease. Rukerabigwi notes that it has also been proven that even small amounts of sage, whether smelled or consumed, help to increase recall abilities and memory retention. When it comes to the immune system, sage has been shown to help boost its strength. This is because the herb consists of some antimicrobial properties. When consumed, it helps in the prevention of bacterial and viral infections that attack the body through the skin. Erick Musengimana, a nutritionist working with Rwanda Diabetes Association, says sage is quite effective in the management of diabetes. This is so because sage consists of certain extracts and chemicals that mimic the drugs typically recommended for managing diabetes. “The herb appears to regulate and inhibit the release of stored glucose in the liver, avoiding major fluctuations of blood sugar, which can help prevent the onset of type 2 diabetes,” he says. He adds that sage can also manage the condition if it has already manifested, which is vital as well.
