Herbs in Witchcraft - Sage

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Sage is probably one of the most commonly used herbs in witchcraft. In fact it's even used as a verb in some practices. What else can this cleansing herb offer us?

Herbs in Witchcraft - Sage with image of sage plant

In the kitchen, sage is associated with holiday cooking, poultry seasoning, and autumnal dishes. In the spiritual realm, sage is synonymous with smoke cleansing, with many people now using sage as a verb to describe any type of energetic cleansing. But sage does so much more than flavor our stuffing or remove bad vibes.

There is some controversey about the use of white sage. While some practitioners may insist on its use, it is important to consider that this particular species is become more and more endangered. Its rise in popularity amongst the spiritual community has only exacerbated this situation. It is my belief that common garden sage is every bit as powerful. After all, it is the witch who makes the magic, not the material.

So in this article, I'm referring to common garden sage, salvia officinalis. I encourage you to consider leaving white sage to Native American practitioners who have used this plant for generations. If you are going to purchase white sage for magical purposes, please do so sustainably and with sensitivity to the culture of origin.

Healing Properties of Sage

Traditionally, this herb was used as a healing herb by ancient Greeks, Romans, Native Americans, and Chinese. While the science is still out for its use in medicines, herbalists will still call on it for things like sore throats or as a mood booster.

Sage essential oil (not to be confused with clary sage) is often used to relieve aching muscles. It's stimulating properties can be used to relieve stress and improve focus. It also has astringent properties that make it a great skin toner. It's antiseptic and anti-fungal properties also make it useful as a deodorant or mouthwash, as well as for controlling dandruff.

Modern herbalists use it in herbal tea to help with sore throats, to relieve stress, and to aid digestion. It can also be added to a mouthwash, throat spray or gargle for both sore throats and gum health. You can also add the herb or essential oil to a foot bath to help kill fungal infections.

Sage should be avoided while pregnant or breastfeeding. Please always consult a health professional before beginning any herbal treatments.

Magical & Spiritual Properties of Sage

As I mentioned, this plant is most commonly known for its cleansing properties. It can be called on to clear the energy of any space. Some practitioners feel that its cleansing properties are so strong, they're almost like an energetic vacuum cleaner. Remember that whenever you're cleansing a space, it's important to always set an intention for the energy you want to call in, not just the energy you want to remove.

The word sage is also used to describe a person with great wisdom. This plant can definitely be used to al in wisdom, as well as prophetic dreams. This herb also carries the energy of protection, healing, and spiritual health.

Here are some of sage's correspondences:

Planet - Jupiter
Element - Air
Dieties - Consus, Jupiter, Zeus

Witchcraft Uses

Burn dried sage, either in a bundle or as loose incense, to banish negative or harmful entities or energies.

Add an infusion of the dried herb or its essential oil to spiritual cleansing bath spells.

Add some leaves to spell jars or charm bags to call in wisdom.

Create a magical tea blend to call in calm, focus, and wisdom.

Grind together dried sage and egg shells and use the powder as a protective circle around your property.

Create a wisdom essential oil blend to carry with you on days you wish to boost your brain power.

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Recipes for the Kitchen Witch

Sage is also delicious, so use it with intention in your kitchen witchcraft for more than just flavor. Call in the energy of cleansing, wisdom, healing, or whatever you need from it as you add it to your favorite recipes. Here are a few ideas of how to cook with this powerful herb.

I hope this has given you lots of ideas of how to work with the energy of sage. It can do so much more than just smoke cleansing.

What's your favorite way to work with sage in your witchcraft practice? Let me know in the comments.