About Clary Sage Essential Oil
I pulled out an old friend the other day and really enjoyed getting reacquainted - Clary Sage, also known as Salvia sclarea - is one of the first essential oils I worked with and studied. It was a transcendent experience for me to sniff, study and experience my first batch of essential oils. Transcendent because not only was my nose involved but also my mind and my emotions. My eyes were generally closed, the better to smell what I had in my hands. This time, I had a large bottle out and was filling a smaller vial for a retail store and took a moment from my work to appreciate this lovely herb.
The smell of clary sage has been described as having a sweet herbaceous scent that is almost winelike; to me it is very fresh while also somewhat floral or fruity. In fact it has been use in the production of wines with a muscatel flavor. In perfumes, I find it can dominate but may also enhance a blend. Clary sage is used for many problems and is mainly known for its anti-stress properties; most aromatherapists will caution against use in conjunction with drinking alcohol due to its narcotic effect and it's best not to use it while driving. It's great for oily skin, inflamed skin, hair and wrinkles. It's commonly used for high blood pressure, tension headaches and excessive perspiration. It is also hormone balancing and can be used for pre-menstrual problems. It should, however, be avoided during pregnancy.
This is one of the essential oils that I either really like or can do without depending on my state of mind and/or state of health. Like many people, I seem to respond to essential oils based on my physical or emotional needs at the time. There are days lately when I need a relaxing experience and perhaps some hormonal balancing so I really responded to clary sage when I had it in my hands. To use it, you may choose to diffuse it into a room where you are relaxing or meditating. If you have dark hair you could blend a few drops with some jojoba or grapeseed oil as a pre-shampoo tonic. It is a great conditioner and may even darken grey or faded hair. Clary sage appears in our 'Fresh' room spray and I love to use it during the winter (or the humid summer) when the house is closed up. It brings a little of the outdoors inside