Wise & Wonderful Sage

Sage Tincture for Sore Throats

This sage tincture will ease those first symptoms of a cold or flu while offering other health-giving benefits.

Sage is well-known as an antioxidant-rich seasoning whose pungent and savory flavor makes it a familiar culinary addition to soups and sauces. Because of its popularity in cooking, people may not realize that sage also has a potent medicine profile.

With antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, sage is a natural painkiller that soothes congestion and post-nasal drainage when sprayed at the back of the throat. Sage is considered a herb with drying properties which makes it an excellent plant for alleviating a wet, phlegmy cough and sinus congestion.

You can make your own sage tincture at home by following this simple recipe:

What You’ll Need

• a small glass jar
• Sage leaves, enough to fill the jar lightly packed (dried or fresh—if using fresh, allow it to wilt for a few hours first)
• 90-proof alcohol (vodka, rum, brandy or Everclear)

 
What To Do

1.    Pack the jar with the sage leaves
2.    Completely fill the jar with the alcohol
3.    Seal with an air-tight lid
4.    Shake
5.    Place in a cool dark place for 4 – 6 weeks
6.    Shake every other day
7.    Strain liquid into a tincture bottle with a dropper
8.    Use the tincture as needed for sore throats and congestion. 
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Add the liquid to a glass spray bottle for a soothing throat spray and spray at the back of your throat at the first sign of discomfort. Add a few drops of the tincture to a glass of water and sip throughout the day. Your tincture will keep indefinitely, especially if kept in the refrigerator.