Magic Sage: What makes the all-rounder so versatile?

If you plant your herb bed, you should reserve a corner for sage. This not only pleases the insects, but the medicinal plant of the year 2023 also performs well in the kitchen, and against diseases. Easily recognised by its slightly furry and silvery leaves, it often stands among other Mediterranean herbs in the flower bed. A warm and well-drained place in the sun is just the right location.

Difficult soil conditions for better flavour?

If the soil is rather lean, calcareous and dry, the plant will not grow as quickly, but the aroma will be more intense. A handful of compost annually is sufficient for nutrients. Newly planted garden sage is for April, cut back plants that have grown in no earlier than mid-March.

Sage in the kitchen

Sage leaves have a tart and dominant aroma and taste from slightly bitter to camphor-like. In cooking however, the spicy herb should be used sparingly and combined with other flavourful spices so that the taste does not overpower the rest of the flavours. Sage is versatile and adds a Mediterranean touch to pasta dishes, vegetables, meat and fish dishes; pork and lamb harmonise perfectly with the medicinal herb. Sage is also an important ingredient in the classic Italian herb mix (usually made of basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and sage or cilantro).

Sage as a remedy

The essential oils and tannins have a germicidal, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect, but also antiperspirant. Therefore, sage, for example as a tea, is used for digestive complaints, but also helps with inflammation of the mouth and throat or heavy sweating - the medicinal plant of the year 2023 is truly an all-rounder for body, kitchen and health. (APA/dpa)