The back-garden pharmacy

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

What is it? Small hardy evergreen shrub, with strong scent and grey-green leaves. Its main active constituent is the greenish-yellow volatile oil, which is extracted from the dried leaves by steam distillation.

How does it help? Sage is a veritable panacea for stomach and menopausal problems, such as hot flushes.

How do I use it? As an infusion using either dried or fresh leaves, and if you dislike the strong flavour, add honey. Not suitable for epileptics.

Other benefits? It's a great relaxant in a herbal bath. It can help reduce sweating and, mixed with olive oil, it's an effective insect repellent. A recent study has shown it can help keep your memory sharp, too.

What's the evidence? ‘This herb is traditionally used to reduce sweating, so it's often recommended to alleviate menopausal symptoms,' Dr Walker says. ‘It also works as a mouthwash for combating throat infections.'

Quick fix? Viridian's Organic Sage 400mg (£6.36, 30 capsules), www.nutricentre.com or 020 7436 5122.