Italian sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial herb that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated and used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Italian sage is a small shrub-like plant with gray-green, oblong leaves that are covered in fine hairs, and it produces small, tubular flowers that are typically purple or blue in color.
In culinary applications, Italian sage is highly regarded for its flavor and versatility, commonly used in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine to impart a distinctive taste to dishes. It pairs particularly well with fatty or rich foods, as its flavor helps to cut through the richness.
Medicinally, sage has a long history of use, believed to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Sage tea, made by steeping sage leaves in hot water, is sometimes used for its potential digestive and soothing effects.
Italian sage is a hardy plant that thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, making it suitable for herb gardens, containers, or ornamental landscaping.