Clary sage (Salvia sclarea L.)



Updated 29 January 2024

Botanical characteristics

  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Division: Magnoliophyta 
  • Class: Magnoliopsida 
  • Order: Lamiales
  • Family: Lamiaceae
  • Genus: Salvia
  • Part used: Flower / plant, Flowering tops
  • Country of origin: France, Europe

Precautions for use

Caution! Clary Sage essential oil is non-toxic, but due to its oestrogen-like effects, it is only approved for adults and adolescents.

It can be used diluted on the skin and by inhalation.

The oral route is reserved for the therapist.

Caution, it is formally contraindicated in hormone-dependent cancers, mastosis and uterine fibroids.

Lastly, it should not be confused with common salvia (Salvia officinalis), the essential oil of which is reserved for doctors because it is neurotoxic and abortifacient.

Other precautions

Warning:

  • The oral route should only be used on prescription.
  • For people with asthma, seek medical advice before use.
  • Do not use this essential oil for long periods without the advice of a therapist.

Cutaneous use:

  • The dermal route should be diluted for prolonged use and on very sensitive skin.

Diffusion:

  • This essential oil is authorised for diffusion and inhalation, but has a very specific smell.

Contraindications:

  • Clary sage essential oil is strictly contraindicated in hormone-dependent cancers, mastosis and fibroids.

Allergenic components:

Clary sage essential oil contains allergenic biochemicals:

  • limonene (≤ 3%)
  • linalool (≤ 6.5 to 24%)
  • geraniol (≤ 2%)

Note: It is best to test the essential oil before using it (two drops on the elbow crease for at least 24 hours to check for a reaction).

Authorised users

 Adults and adolescents

Children under 6 years

 Pregnant and breastfeeding women

 Pregnant women younger than 3 months

 Infants under 3 years old

How to use

 Inhalation

 Cutaneous

 Oral

 Diffusion

Risks of use

 Oestrogen-like

 Properties

  • Oestrogen mimetic
  • Regulates the menstrual cycle 
  • Aphrodisiac 
  • Circulation regulator 
  • Hypocholesterolaemic 
  • Antifungal 
  • Antispasmodic 
  • Neurotonic 

Indications

Directions for use/usual dosage

  • All indications: 2 to 3 drops applied topically or to the plexus diluted 10% with a vegetable oil. 
  • Diffused with other EOs to create a happy atmosphere.