Clary Sage (Salvia sclarea)
Flowers: Mid to late summer. Height: 90cm (36in).
Also known as Clear Eye Sage.
Medicinal: Descriptions of its medicinal use date back to the 4th century BC and it was used throughout the Middle Ages in Europe. It was called Clear Eye Sage* as ancient herbalists used it as an eyewash to sooth and cleanse the eye due to its antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties. (*Clear Eye: the seeds were soaked in water, forming a thickish mucilage, which would be used as an eyewash to remove dust particles from the eye.) It was also used for intestinal complaints, colic, soft bones and fractures, and to rejuvenate and calm the skin.
Culinary: Leaves were dipped in batter and fried to produce fritters that often accompanied meat dishes. In the Middle Ages, it was common to use Clary Sage instead of hops in beer. The flowers have a long history of being added to salads and made a popular drink before black tea arrived from China.
Magic & Myth: This long-lived perennial plant was sown on graves in medieval times because people thought it would give immortality.
