Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea) is a biennial perennial herb in the Lamiaceae family, native to the Mediterranean region, including parts of Southern Europe and North Africa. It has been cultivated and valued for centuries due to its aromatic properties and various uses in traditional medicine.

The name “Clary” is derived from the Latin word “clarus,” meaning “clear,” as the seeds were historically used to clear and brighten the eyes.

In the Middle Ages, Clary Sage was commonly referred to as “Oculus Christi,” meaning “the Eye of Christ,” due to its perceived ability to treat eye-related ailments.

The plant was also used in medieval times as a flavouring agent in wines and liqueurs, particularly in Germany, where it was added to Muscatel wine, leading to the nickname “muscatel sage.”

Medicinal Uses

Clary Sage has a long history of use in herbal medicine. Some of its notable medicinal applications include:

Essential Oil: Clary Sage essential oil is highly valued for its calming and soothing properties. It is often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation.

Menstrual and Menopausal Relief: The oil is believed to balance hormones, making it beneficial for relieving menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes.

Digestive Aid: Clary Sage has been used to treat digestive issues, including indigestion, gas, and bloating.

Skin Care: The oil’s anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties make it useful in treating skin conditions such as acne, dermatitis, and inflammation.

Eye Health: Traditionally, Clary Sage seeds were soaked in water to produce a mucilaginous solution used as an eye wash to clear and soothe the eyes.

How to Grow Clary Sage from Seed

Growing Clary Sage from seed is relatively straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:

Seed Preparation: Seeds can be sown directly into the garden bed or started indoors in seed trays.

Sowing:

Timing: In Australia, sow the seeds in early spring after the last frost, or in autumn in milder climates.

Soil: Clary Sage prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.0-7.5).

Planting Depth: Sow the seeds just below the soil surface (about 0.5 cm deep).

Spacing: Space the seeds or seedlings about 30-60 cm apart to allow room for the plant’s bushy growth.

Germination:

Temperature: Clary Sage seeds germinate best at temperatures between 15-20°C.

Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause the seeds to rot.

Germination Time: Seeds typically germinate within 2-3 weeks.

Transplanting (if started indoors):

Once the seedlings have grown a few sets of true leaves and the outdoor temperatures are stable, they can be transplanted into the garden.

Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week.

Growing Conditions:

Sunlight: Clary Sage thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.

Fertilisation: Clary Sage is not particularly demanding but can benefit from a light application of compost or a balanced fertiliser during the growing season.

Harvesting:

Clary Sage typically flowers in its second year. Harvest the leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day.

The essential oil is extracted from the flowering tops, which are best harvested when in full bloom.

Pest and Disease Management:

Clary Sage is generally resistant to pests and diseases but watch out for aphids and spider mites. Ensure good air circulation around the plants to prevent fungal issues.

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