Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Sage (Salvia officinalis) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in European herbalism, for managing various conditions, including external bleeding. The astringent properties of sage are attributed mainly to its high content of tannins and essential oils. Historically, fresh sage leaves have been applied directly to wounds as a poultice to help stop bleeding and promote healing. The tannins are believed to constrict blood vessels and tissues, which may reduce bleeding and facilitate clot formation. Several older herbals and folk medicine sources document this practice, highlighting sage's role as a wound herb alongside others like yarrow and comfrey.

However, scientific studies directly investigating sage's effectiveness for controlling external bleeding in humans are limited. Most evidence remains anecdotal or based on traditional herbal knowledge rather than clinical trials. Some laboratory studies confirm sage's astringent action and antimicrobial properties, which could theoretically support wound healing and infection prevention, but these do not specifically validate its hemostatic (bleeding-stopping) effect in vivo. Therefore, while there is clear traditional precedent and plausible mechanisms, strong clinical evidence is lacking, and modern wound care relies on more standardized treatments. Sage may still be explored as a complementary measure, but it should not replace proven medical interventions for significant bleeding.

More about sage
More about Bleeding (external)

Other ingredients used for Bleeding (external)

Other health conditions supported by sage

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