How to Lose Weight With Sage
Sage has been used for centuries as a healing herb. Ancients made use of the aromatic leaves in a variety of ways, from soothing a sore throat to curing snake bites. Although sage is primarily used to flavor meats and other rich foods these days, the herb is also known to aid digestion. This characteristic makes sage popular as a weight loss aid. Fresh sage packs a powerful flavor punch for soups, meats, breads and salads, or you can enjoy it between meals in its one of its purest forms---in a soothing, warm sage tea to take the edge off of hunger.
Instructions
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Wash fresh sage under cold water, make sure not to damage the delicate leaves. Separate 2 tsp. of sage from the stem and place them in the drinking cup.
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Boil 6 oz. water. After bubbles have subsided, pour water over the fresh leaves.
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Cover the brew and allow the leaves to steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
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Strain the leaves from the water.
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Add honey, sugar or artificial sweetener to taste. (Keep in mind that honey and sugar are high in calories and should be used in moderation if you're trying to achieve weight loss.)
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Sip before, during or after meals. Enjoy the tea hot or pour it over ice for a refreshing cold drink.
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Tips & Warnings
If fresh sage is not available, you may substitute 1 tsp. of dried sage for tea. Sage intensifies in flavor when it dries, so you will use less dried sage than you will when the herb is fresh.
Add a wedge of lemon to your tea to enhance the flavor of your tea, if you prefer.
Although sage is widely considered safe for consumption, use it in moderation. Excessive amounts of sage---more than 15 grams of sage leaves, for example---can cause dizziness, rapid heartbeat and convulsions. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not consume sage for medicinal purposes, as the herb has been known to induce contractions.
