This sage and vinegar poultice is
indispensible for easing the pain of sprains. Vinegar brings bruises to the
surface of the skin, cooling and reducing swelling. Sage is used
traditionally in compresses for the treatment of sprains.
- Bruise
fresh whole leaves of sage by flattening with a rolling pin. Try not to
break or tear the leaves.
- Put the leaves in a saucepan and pour in
just enough vinegar to cover them. Simmer gently for 5 minutes over a very
low heat. The vinegar should not boil, but steam to soften and blanch the
sage.
- Working quickly and carefully, take the leaves out and place
then on a cloth. Fold the cloth into a compress just big enough to cover the
affected area.
- Apply as hot as can be tolerated and cover with
towels to retain the heat. Leave on for an hour or until the swelling has
gone down.
"Sage is singularly good for the head and braine; it
quickens the senses and memory, strengtheneth the sinews, restoreth health
to those that have the palsie, takes away shaking or trembling of the
members." - John Gerard, The Herball or Generall Historie of Plants.
1597.