Can Sage Make You High? Unveiling the Truth Behind this Ancient Herb
No, common culinary sage (Salvia officinalis) will not make you high. While certain species of sage, specifically Salvia divinorum, are known for their potent psychoactive effects, the common sage found in your spice rack is not psychoactive to a significant degree and is generally considered safe for culinary use.
Distinguishing Culinary Sage from Psychoactive Sage
Sage is a diverse genus (Salvia) encompassing hundreds of species. However, when discussing the potential for a “high,” it’s crucial to differentiate between common culinary sage (Salvia officinalis) and Salvia divinorum, often referred to as “diviner’s sage.”
Salvia officinalis: This is the sage most people know. It’s used for flavoring food, making tea, and has a history of traditional medicinal uses. It contains thujone, a compound that can be toxic in very high doses, but the amount present in culinary sage is far below levels that would cause psychoactive effects or significant harm when used responsibly.
Salvia divinorum: This species is the source of the potent hallucinogenic compound salvinorin A. It is not related to common sage in terms of its effects and is legally regulated in many regions. Its use can produce intense and short-lived altered states of consciousness.
The Chemical Components: Thujone vs. Salvinorin A
The key to understanding the difference lies in the active chemical components.
Thujone: Found in culinary sage, thujone is a GABAA receptor antagonist. In large quantities, it can be toxic, leading to seizures and other neurological problems. However, the concentration of thujone in Salvia officinalis is generally low, and responsible use poses minimal risk. Traditional preparation methods, such as cooking and steeping in tea, further reduce thujone levels.
Salvinorin A: This compound, unique to Salvia divinorum, is a potent kappa opioid receptor agonist. This mechanism of action is entirely different from that of thujone and results in intense hallucinogenic experiences.
| Feature | Salvia officinalis (Culinary Sage) | Salvia divinorum (Diviner’s Sage) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Compound | Thujone | Salvinorin A |
| Psychoactive Effect | Minimal to None | Potent Hallucinogenic |
| Legal Status | Generally Legal | Regulated in Many Regions |
| Common Use | Culinary, Tea, Traditional Medicine | Entheogenic/Recreational (Controversial) |
Understanding Thujone Toxicity in Culinary Sage
While culinary sage contains thujone, the levels are not high enough to induce psychoactive effects or significant toxicity under normal use. Several factors contribute to this safety profile:
- Low Concentration: The percentage of thujone in Salvia officinalis is relatively low.
- Preparation Methods: Cooking or steeping sage in tea reduces the thujone content further.
- Responsible Consumption: Using sage in moderation as a culinary herb or in reasonable quantities for tea preparation ensures that thujone intake remains within safe limits.
Potential Benefits of Culinary Sage
Despite not being psychoactive, Salvia officinalis offers several potential health benefits:
- Cognitive Function: Some studies suggest it may improve memory and cognitive performance.
- Antioxidant Properties: Sage contains antioxidants that can help protect against cell damage.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Sage may have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in reducing inflammation in the body.
- Menopause Symptom Relief: Some women use sage to alleviate hot flashes and other menopause symptoms.
Safe Usage Guidelines for Culinary Sage
- Moderation is Key: Use culinary sage in moderation as a seasoning or in tea.
- Avoid Excessive Consumption: Do not consume large quantities of sage, especially sage essential oil, which has a higher concentration of thujone.
- Consult with a Healthcare Professional: If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications, consult with your doctor before using sage, especially in larger quantities or as a supplement.
- Avoid During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Due to the thujone content, it’s generally recommended to avoid sage during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing Salvia officinalis with Salvia divinorum: This is the most critical mistake. Ensure you are using the correct species.
- Overconsumption of Sage Oil: Sage essential oil contains a concentrated amount of thujone and should be used with extreme caution and under professional guidance.
- Ignoring Underlying Health Conditions: People with certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, should avoid sage due to the potential for thujone to trigger seizures.
- Self-Treating Serious Conditions: While sage may offer some health benefits, it should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sage and its Effects
Is it possible to get a mild buzz from culinary sage if I consume a lot of it?
While extremely unlikely to cause a significant psychoactive effect, consuming very large amounts of culinary sage might theoretically lead to mild feelings of altered awareness due to the thujone content. However, this would require ingesting amounts that are likely to cause other, more immediate adverse effects, such as digestive upset.
What does Salvia divinorum feel like?
The effects of Salvia divinorum are highly variable and often described as intense and dissociative. Users report experiences ranging from altered perceptions of reality to out-of-body sensations and encounters with seemingly autonomous entities. The experience is generally short-lived, lasting only a few minutes.
Is Salvia divinorum legal?
The legality of Salvia divinorum varies widely depending on the jurisdiction. In some countries and states, it is completely legal, while in others, it is a controlled substance or has been banned altogether. It’s essential to check the laws in your specific location before possessing or using Salvia divinorum.
Can I make Salvia divinorum at home?
Salvia divinorum is a plant that must be grown from cuttings or seeds. However, the process of extracting and concentrating salvinorin A for enhanced potency is complex and requires specialized knowledge and equipment. Attempting to do so without proper expertise is dangerous and potentially illegal.
What are the potential dangers of using Salvia divinorum?
The primary dangers of Salvia divinorum are related to its unpredictable and intense psychoactive effects. These effects can lead to impaired judgment, disorientation, and potentially dangerous behavior. It’s crucial to use it in a safe and controlled environment with a sober sitter.
Does culinary sage interact with medications?
Yes, culinary sage can potentially interact with certain medications, particularly those affecting blood sugar levels or those with sedative effects. It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications before using sage regularly or in larger quantities.
Can sage tea help with anxiety?
Some people find that sage tea has a calming effect, which may help to reduce anxiety symptoms. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support this claim. It’s not a substitute for professional treatment for anxiety disorders.
Is sage safe for pets?
While small amounts of sage are unlikely to be harmful to pets, it’s best to avoid giving it to them, especially in larger quantities. Thujone can be toxic to animals, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving your pet any herbal remedies.
What is the best way to prepare sage tea?
To prepare sage tea, steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried sage leaves in a cup of hot water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the tea before drinking. Do not use sage essential oil internally, as it can be toxic.
Are there different types of culinary sage?
Yes, there are different varieties of culinary sage, each with slightly different flavors and aromas. Common types include common sage (Salvia officinalis), purple sage, golden sage, and tricolor sage. They are all safe for culinary use.
How can I tell the difference between Salvia officinalis and Salvia divinorum?
Salvia officinalis (culinary sage) has smaller, softer leaves and a more subtle aroma. Salvia divinorum has larger, broader leaves and a less distinct scent. The plants look very different in appearance. Salvia divinorum is not typically sold in grocery stores or garden centers.
What are some traditional uses of culinary sage?
Traditionally, culinary sage has been used to treat various ailments, including sore throats, digestive issues, and memory problems. It has also been used as a preservative and to flavor food. However, it’s important to note that not all of these uses are supported by scientific evidence.