Behmen Surkh | Red Sage | بہمن سرخ

Recent scientific research has confirmed the validity of Red Sage's traditional usage for heart and circulatory problems. The scientific name of 'Salvia', derives from the Latin for 'to heal', which underscores the herbs early reputation as a cure-all. It is adaptogenic, antibacterial, anticholesterolemic, antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, digestive, nerve tonic, oestrogenic, stimulant, styptic and tonic and largely prescribed in seminal debility, anaemia, etc. It is also used to treat asthma. Also useful in aphthae, menstrual disorders, erectile dysfunction, habitual miscarriages, cystitis, chronic liver and kidney diseases, and for checking the secretion of mammary glands. It can also stop excess sweating, which - along with the oestrogenic effect - makes it an excellent remedy during the menopause. It is valuable in stress-related conditions and has an antihypertensive effect. It strengthens the nervous system and aids convalescence.

It has shown to have a profound effect on the coronary circulation, reducing the symptoms of angina and improving heart function. The whole herb (rather than isolated constituents) has been used to assist patients who are recovering from a heart attack and it appears to support heart function at this critical time. Clinical trials have shown that Red Sage is most effective when given as a preventive, rather than as a remedy after a heart attack has taken place. It particularly benefits the coronary circulation, opening up the arteries and improving blood flow to the heart and is therefore helping in treating coronary heart disease. Though it does not lower blood pressure, it relaxes the blood vessels and improves circulation throughout the body. It helps prevent blood clots from forming and is quite useful in the prevention and treatment of myocardial infarction.

The sedative action helps to calm the nerves and it is therefore helpful in treating angina, palpitation, insomnia and irritability also benefit from its sedative properties.

As Sage is rich in antioxidants, it may actually prevent Alzheimer's disease. British researchers have confirmed that it inhibits the enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, thus preserving the compound that seems to help prevent and treat Alzheimer's. Sage contains fairly high levels of antiseptics and tannins. Tannins have a soothing, astringent action and an antimicrobial effect. It is also known to inhibit the action of the tuberculosis bacillus.