Skin care is important, not only to make it look good but to protect it from ageing as well. While there are numerous anti-ageing products available, you can also try natural remedies to slow down the signs of ageing. It may not happen overnight, but you can add an easily available ingredient - sage herb, to your beauty routine which will help to reduce the signs of ageing. An aromatic herb, sage has been used for ages for both culinary and medicinal purposes. This herb is rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and may help combat wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of ageing. Learn to use sage for skin here!

What is a sage herb?

Sage is a popular herb used since ancient times for both culinary and medicinal purposes. This member of the mint family is native to the Mediterranean and has grey-green leaves with a distinctive, slightly bitter flavour, as found in a study published in the Agricultural and Biological Science. Commonly used to flavour savoury dishes, sage has also been revered for its potential health benefits. From improving brain function to aiding digestion, this versatile herb offers several health benefits. Sage also contains ingredients that may help you combat the signs of ageing.

Reduce the signs of ageing with natural remedies. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Sage for skin: Can it slow down the signs of ageing?

Sage herb can be effectively used to fight signs of ageing, as it is loaded with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, found a study published in the Current Ageing Science Journal. Having these properties can keep your skin healthy.

Sage has antioxidants like rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, and flavonoids. These help clear free radicals in our body tissues and blood which can otherwise cause damage to the cells and trigger the ageing process. When we reduce oxidative stress in our body, we improve the longevity of our cells and thus skin health also improves. It also has a bio-active compound which is excellent for the skin.

“Sage herb is also good for delaying the signs of premature ageing. It helps reduce chronic inflammation in the body. Plus, it has antimicrobial benefits which help fight infections, and acne and reduce the signs of ageing. Additionally, it helps to improve skin elasticity by improving collagen production,” says Ayurveda coach Dimple Jangda. This makes the skin visibly younger and more firm. Sage can also help improve hydration of the skin, and moisture and reduce dryness which otherwise accelerates the ageing process of the skin.

How to use sage herb for reversing signs of ageing?

Here are some easy and effective ways to use sage herbs to fight ageing signs, as explained by the expert:

1. Sage and honey face mask

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of dried sage leaves
• 2 teaspoons of honey

Method:

• Mix 1 teaspoon of dried sage leaves with 2 teaspoons of honey in a bowl.
• Apply it on your face.
• Leave it for 15-20 minutes
• Rinse it off with water.

This helps to moisturise the skin and reduce oxidative stress in the skin.

2. Sage infused oil for facial

Ingredients:

• Sage leaves
• Carrier oil: olive or coconut oil

Method:

• Heat olive oil or coconut oil in a double boiler method, add some sage leaves and let it cook for 30 minutes.
• Strain the oil and store this in a dark glass bottle.
• Use this oil to massage your face during facials to reduce signs of ageing.

3. Sage leaves face steam

Ingredients:

• Sage leaves
• Water

Method:

• Boil some water, add some sage leaves and use this to steam your face.

This will help open and clean the pores and reduce oxidative stress in the skin.

4. Sage and aloe vera face mask

Ingredients:

• Sage leaves
• Aloe vera gel

Method:

• Mix fresh sage leaves with aloe vera gel to make a mask, and apply it on your skin.
• Leave this on for 15 minutes to hydrate the skin well.

5. Sage scrub for face

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons of yoghurt
• 1 tablespoon of dried sage leaves

Method:

• Mix 2 tablespoons of plain yoghurt with a tablespoon of finely ground dried sage leaves. Massage your face gently with circular motions.
• Rinse it off with running water.

This scrub helps exfoliate dead skin cells and promote a youthful glow.

6. Sage toner

• To make a toner, boil sage leaves in a cup of water for 10-15 minutes.
• Let it cool and store it in a spray bottle.
• Gently spray it on your face 2 times a day for an effective result.

This toner helps to reduce appearance of pores and helps to reverse signs of ageing.

7. Sage serum

• Make a strong cup of green tea, add a teaspoon of sage essential oil and store it in a bottle.
• You can apply this on your face before bedtime as an anti-ageing serum.

This serum helps to give your skin ample hydration and helps to reduce the signs of ageing.

Use a natural serum to reduce the signs of ageing. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock.

Who should avoid using sage?

• People who have a sensitive digestive system may experience nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain if they consume sage orally.
• Sage contains phytoestrogen which can increase hormonal imbalances, so people with such problems should avoid it.
• Sage oil can also trigger seizures for those who have a history of epilepsy.
• Avoid applying it directly if you have rashes or sensitive skin.

It is important to always do a patch test when using this herb as a skincare remedy. Avoid using it without the supervision of your doctor if you have any skincare problems.

Read Also: 8 reasons why your skin needs collagen and how to get it!