Sage is a popular herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal and culinary purposes. It has a distinct flavor and is commonly used to enhance the taste of meats, poultry, and vegetables in cooking.
It is also used in various forms, including teas, essential oils, and supplements, to treat a range of ailments.
While sage is generally considered safe when consumed in small quantities, consuming too much of this herb can have adverse effects on health. In this article, we will explore some of the dangers of consuming too much sage.
Sage Allergies
Consuming too much sage can lead to allergic reactions. Some people may be allergic to sage, and symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Mild symptoms include hives, itching, and skin rashes, while severe symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the face and throat, and anaphylaxis. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming sage, seek medical attention immediately.
Sage Toxicity
Sage contains compounds that can be toxic in large amounts. One of these compounds is thujone, which is found in high concentrations in sage oil and sage tea. Thujone can cause seizures, tremors, and even death when consumed in excess.
While the amount of thujone present in sage is not enough to cause these effects in small quantities, consuming large amounts of sage oil or tea can be dangerous.
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Unwanted Side Effects
Consuming too much sage can lead to unwanted side effects, even if you are not allergic to it. These side effects may include:.
- Stomach upset and abdominal pain
- Dizziness and confusion
- Fatigue and weakness
- Muscle tremors and seizures
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Thinning of the blood
- Increased risk of bleeding
- Reduced blood sugar levels
Interactions with Medications
Sage can interact with some medications, leading to adverse side effects. If you are taking any medications, it is essential to check with your doctor before consuming sage. Sage can interact with the following medications:.
- Diabetes medication – Sage can lower blood sugar levels, and taking sage along with diabetes medication can lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels.
- Blood thinners – Sage can thin the blood, and taking it along with blood thinners can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Blood pressure medication – Sage can increase blood pressure, and taking it along with blood pressure medication can lead to dangerously high blood pressure levels.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consuming sage during pregnancy and breastfeeding can be dangerous. Sage contains compounds that can stimulate uterine contractions, leading to a miscarriage or premature labor.
It is also known to reduce milk supply in breastfeeding mothers, leading to a decrease in the production of breast milk.
Conclusion
Sage is a versatile herb that has several health benefits when consumed in moderation. However, consuming too much sage can lead to adverse effects on health.
Always consult with your doctor before taking sage supplements or using sage to treat any ailments. If you experience any adverse side effects after consuming sage, seek medical attention immediately.
