Spice
Sage
6/10 Moderate evidence
Mediterranean herb with traditional use for cognitive support; rosmarinic acid and carnosol provide neuroprotective effects.
Active compounds
-
Rosmarinic acid
Inhibits acetylcholinesterase and reduces neuroinflammation
-
Carnosol
Activates Nrf2 antioxidant pathway
Helps with
Practical tips
- Preparation
- Use fresh in butter sauces, or dried in stuffings and meat rubs
- Recommended amount
- 1 teaspoon dried daily, or fresh leaves brewed as tea
- Absorption
- Sage tea (1 cup, 2x daily) has been studied for cognitive support
- Cautions
- Avoid high-dose sage essential oil — thujone content can be neurotoxic; avoid in pregnancy