Forty-two patients (aged 65-80 years) with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease were randomly assigned to receive, in double-blind fashion, 60 drops/day of sage (Salvia officinalis) extract (1:1 in 45% alcohol) or placebo for 4 months. After 4 months, cognitive function (as determined by the cognitive subscale of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale [p = 0.03 vs. placebo] and the Clinical Dementia Rating [p < 0.003 vs. placebo]) was significantly better in the active-treatment group than in the placebo group. Side effects were similar in the two groups, with the exception of agitation, which was more frequent in the placebo group (p = 0.09).

Comment: Sage has been used in traditional herbal medicine to improve memory and to enhance the senses. This herb has been shown to bind to cholinergic receptors in vitro, an effect that might be expected to improve cognitive function. The results of the present study indicate that an extract of sage is effective in the treatment of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer’s disease. While the dose used in this study did not cause any significant side effects, excessive doses of sage can cause mental confusion or convulsions.

Akhondzadeh S, et al. Salvia officinalis extract in the treatment of patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease: a double blind, randomized and placebo-controlled trial. J Clin Pharm Ther 2003;28:53-59.