Pharmacological properties of Salvia officinalis and its components

<i>Salvia officinalis</i> (Sage) is a plant in the family of Labiatae/Lamiaceae. It is native to Middle East and Mediterranean areas, but today has been naturalized throughout the world. In folk medicine, <i>S. officinalis</i> has been used for the treatment of different kinds of disorders including seizure, ulcers, gout, rheumatism, inflammation, dizziness, tremor, paralysis, diarrhea, and hyperglycemia. In recent years, this plant has been a subject of intensive studies to document its traditional use and to find new biological effects. These studies have revealed a wide range of pharmacological activities for <i>S. officinalis.</i> Present review highlights the up-to-date information on the pharmacological findings that have been frequently reported for <i>S. officinalis</i>. These findings include anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, antidementia, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic effects. Also, chemical constituents responsible for pharmacological effects of <i>S. officinalis</i> and the clinical studies on this plant are presented and discussed.