Clary

Salvia sclarea

Salvia sclarea, commonly known as clary sage, is a traditional plant with roots in European herbal medicine. It has been used historically for various purposes such as treating menstrual disorders and skin conditions, though specific traditions vary. Scientific evidence indicates that S. sclarea contains bioactive compounds including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and organic acids, but the concentrations can differ among Salvia species. A recent study found distinct phytochemical profiles and similar bioactivities between S. sclarea and S. pratensis, suggesting potential for using S. pratensis as an alternative source of antioxidants and antimicrobials. No major safety issues or drug interactions have been recorded for S. sclarea, though further research is needed to fully understand its properties and applications.

At a glance
Best evidence
D
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • A recent duplication and neofunctionalization of a diterpene synthase gene led to the production of sclareol in Salvia sclarea. D PMID
  • Xenodidymella species were found in Salvia sclarea, expanding their known host range. D PMID
  • Salvia sclarea contains a variety of bioactive compounds including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and organic acids, though its content varies compared to other Salvia species. D PMID
  • Salvia sclarea L. extract supplementation in lambs altered gut microbiota composition and influenced serum metabolites, potentially affecting energy metabolism and immune function. D PMID
  • This study found distinct phytochemical profiles and similar bioactivities between Salvia sclarea and Salvia pratensis, highlighting the potential of S. pratensis as an alternative source of antioxidants and antimicrobials. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Clary?

Clary (Salvia sclarea) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Clary?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Clary; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: A recent duplication and neofunctionalization of a diterpene synthase gene led to the production of sclareol in Salvia sclarea.

How strong is the evidence for Clary?

The strongest finding for Clary carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Clary safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Clary in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Clary interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Clary in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Clary?

Clary is also known as: Шалфей мускатный, Sauge sclarée.

Is Clary a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 Comparative Phytochemical Characterization, Biological Activities and Safety Assessment of Salvia pratensis L. and Salvia sclarea L. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Comparison of Selected Pro-Health Biologically Active Chemical Compounds in Salviae herba from Selected Species. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Neofunctionalization underlies the evolutionary origin of sclareol biosynthesis in the mint family. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Effects of Dietary Salvia sclarea L. Extract Supplementation on the Gut Microbiota, and Serum Metabolome in Lambs. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Endophytic Xenodidymella from Iranian medicinal plants: description of three novel species and a new host record. literature abstract metadata