Clary sage/Muscatel sage (Salvia sclarea)

Clary sage essential oil is a biennial herb that is native to Southern Europe, cultivated for the production of the essential oil in France and Russia. Interestingly, it was known in the middle ages as 'Oculus Christi' which translates to the 'Eye of Christ' and was extremely valued as medicine during that time. This essential oil is extracted via steam distillation from flowers found on the top of the plant, and occasionally the leaves are ground and distilled as well. The leaves of clary sage are used in cooking. It was used as a flavoring in ales before the use of hops became common, and also in wine - especially muscatel. Clary sage essential oil has multiple benefits. It is an effective aid for the female constitution, including menstrual and menopausal complaints. It is also a good complexion aid. The essential oil ranges from clear in color to yellow. It has a sweet herb scent, and is watery in texture. Occasionally, the ground leaf is included in the distillation of the essential oil. When it is, the oil is green in color and thicker. Clary sage essential oil therapy is helpful in relieving menopausal symptoms such as irritability, hot flushes, night sweats, heart palpitations, and headaches. It also helps relieve muscle aches, aids in digestion, kidney problems and soothes inflammation of the skin. Clary sage oil's greatest therapeutic benefit is its calming effect on the nerves, and its beneficial properties for female functions, kidneys, and as a carminitive. Clary sage essential oil is also beneficial for skin conditions like acne, and eases muscles and joints aches. Clary sage essential oil is used in a cream or lotion, it can benefit skin problems, back pain, can neutralize body odors, and cramps. It is very good at balancing the production of oil in the skin to clear the complexion.