Tisserand and Young recommend that Clary Sage oil be limited to 0.25% (about 1.5 drops per ounce of any other carrier oils) for leave-on products like ointments, creams, and lotions. There is no restriction for body washes, shampoos, soaps, and other wash-off products because the oil does not remain on the skin.
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Clary Sage is a short biennial or perennial herb that grows up to 1 meter in height (approximately 3 feet). It has large, hairy leaves with small bluish-purple flowers. Its scent is fruity, floral, herbaceous, nutty and heavy. The name is derived from the Latin word claris for ‘clear’, and by the Middle Ages it was known as Oculus Christi, or the Eye of Christ. During the sixteenth century it was used in England as a replacement for hops when brewing beer.
The essential of oil of Clary Sage is considered non-toxic and exhibits mild skin irritation. Few studies have witnessed the moderate irritating effect of Clary Sage oil on rabbit skin. With a regulatory status of ‘Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS)’authorized by the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration), Clary Sage oil is safe on skin when blended with appropriate carrier oils.
The safe level of dilution for Clary Sage oil is 0.25 % according to Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young in their book, Essential Oil Safety. In rodent studies, it has been shown that Clary Sage oil has the effect of causing motor (cognitive function) impairment and sedation, thus the excess use of this oil might result in dizziness, headache and lowering the level of concentration (especially during the use in Aromatherapy massage).
For this reason, it is recommended to avoid the use of Clary Sage oil while you’re taking alcohol or any other narcotic drugs. This oil also has the ability to potentially influence the Limbic system, especially the pituitary gland and thalamus.
Clary Sage is also said to contain hypotensive (decreasing blood pressure) properties and is advised to avoid the use of this oil if you have low blood pressure.
The most popular attribute of Clary sage oil is its estrogenic effect and is not an estrogen mimic. The presence of the sclareol, which has an estrogen-like structure is responsible for this effect and supports in the treatment of menstrual conditions. It binds with estrogen receptor sites, blocking the activity of the system’s own estrogens, ending up in the lessening of estrogenic action.
The use of Clary Sage oil, especially during the early stages of pregnancy is highly discouraged, as it may cause uterine contractions and stimulate menstrual flow. Clary Sage oil is also used by nursing mothers to stop lactation, so do not use Clary Sage oil if you are breastfeeding as it has an anti-galactogogue property.
Visit AyurvedicOils.com for more information on the traditional ayurvedic and aromatherapeutic uses of Clary Sage Oil. Learn about the natural chemical components that give Clary Sage Oil its fragrance and therapeutic characteristics.
Aromatherapy & Health Uses: Helping with uterine problems such as easing PMS, regulating scanty periods and easing painful cramps in the lower back. Also encourages labor, enabling the expectant mother to relax and eases post-natal depression.
It is well known for its euphoric action and is an extremely valuable oil for treating nervousness, fear, paranoia and depression.
Never ingest essential oils and remember to dilute in suitable carrier oils before dermal application, as pure essential oils are highly concentrated liquids and might cause adverse effects in your system. This pertains only for products engaged in topical use and is not valid for wash-off products like soaps, shampoos and other bathing varieties.
Reference Links Substantiating the Possible Skin Issues of Clary Sage Oil:
