Embrace Self-Care with Clary Sage Oil

Reviewed by Amanda Lattin, ACHS Dean of Aromatherapy

September marks National Self-Care Awareness Month, a perfect time to reflect on the importance of taking care of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. As we transition into fall, it's a wonderful opportunity to establish new self-care routines that nurture balance and tranquility in our lives. One powerful way to support this journey is by incorporating essential oils into your daily practice, and this month, we’re shining the spotlight on Clary Sage Salvia sclarea essential oil—a fascinating botanical known for its calming properties.

Clary sage has a long and storied history dating back to ancient times. The name "clary" is derived from the Latin word clarus, meaning "clear," a nod to its traditional use as a remedy for eye health, often referred to as "clear eye." Native to the Mediterranean region, clary sage has been revered for its medicinal properties for centuries¹.

The Calming Benefits of Clary Sage Oil

In today’s fast-paced world, finding moments of calm and relaxation can be challenging. This is where clary sage oil can play an important role in your self-care routine. Known for its ability to soothe the mind and body, clary sage oil offers a host of benefits that make it a perfect companion during National Self-Care Awareness Month.

1. Stress Support: Clary sage oil’s warm, herbal scent can help maintain a calm nervous system, helping to ward off feelings of tension and overwhelm. Diffusing clary sage oil or adding a few drops to a warm bath can create a serene atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
2. Hormonal Maintenance: Clary sage is often used to support hormonal health, particularly in women. It is believed to help maintain regular menstrual cycles and support PMS symptoms².
3. Sleep Support: Clary sage oil can be a natural way to support healthy sleep habits. Its sedative properties help calm the mind and induce relaxation. Try diffusing clary sage oil in your bedroom before bedtime to create a peaceful sleep environment.
4. Enhanced Mood: Clary sage oil is known for its uplifting effects on mood. It can maintain and promote a sense of well-being and joy. Whether inhaled directly or used in a diffuser, clary sage oil can be a powerful tool to keep your spirits lifted.

Incorporating Clary Sage Oil into Your Self-Care Routine

There are many ways to incorporate clary sage oil into your self-care practices:

• Aromatherapy: Add a few drops of clary sage oil to your diffuser to fill your space with its calming aroma. This can be particularly beneficial during meditation, yoga, or simply when you need to relax.
• Massage: Dilute clary sage oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil, and use it for a soothing massage. Focus on areas of tension, like the shoulders and neck, to support stress and promote relaxation.
• Bath: Create a spa-like experience at home by adding clary sage oil to your bath. Combine it with Epsom salts and a carrier oil to nourish your skin while you soak away the day's stress. You can also try this simple bath recipe:
• Ingredients:
• 3 drops Clary Sage Oil Salvia sclarea 
• 2 drops Ylang Ylang Oil Cananga odorata var. Genuina
• 1 tsp carrier oil of your choice 
• Directions: Mix the essential oils and carrier oil together. Add the essential oil blend to your bath after it is full. Mix the oils well and immerse yourself for a wonderful, relaxing soak.
• Topical Application: For hormonal support, apply diluted clary sage oil to the abdomen. Always perform a patch test before using essential oils on the skin to ensure there is no irritation.

Adopt Balanced Self-Care

As we honor National Self-Care Awareness Month, let clary sage oil be your companion in nurturing your well-being. Its calming properties and versatility make it a perfect addition to your self-care routine, helping you to find balance. Take this month as an opportunity to prioritize yourself and explore the many ways clary sage oil can enhance your days and nights.

Learn more ways to incorporate essential oils in your daily life with AROMA 101 Introduction to Aromatherapy, offered by American College of Healthcare Sciences.  

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Always use herbs and essential oils with caution and keep out of reach of children. Use particular caution when pregnant or nursing. Always check contraindications and think safety first! The statements herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. 

Sources

1. Stuart, M. (1997, November 1). Written Findings of the Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board November 1997 Scientific Name: Salvia sclarea L. Common Name. Washington State Noxious Weed Control Board. Retrieved August 13, 2024, from https://www.nwcb.wa.gov/images/weeds/Salvia-sclarea-1997.pdf
2. Ou, C., Hsu, F., Lai, A. C., Lin, T., & Lin, C. (2012). Pain relief assessment by aromatic essential oil massage on outpatients with primary dysmenorrhea: A randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research, 38(5), 817-822. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1447-0756.2011.01802.x