Interactions on record — worth a quick check against your medications. Check your meds →
Dietary supplement

Sage Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Alvita

Other (e.g. Tea Bag) Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Sage is a dietary supplement by Alvita with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for sore throat and mouth irritation, digestive upset, excessive sweating.Based on those ingredients, 1,296 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Sage. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Sage by Alvita

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Alvita Sage is a straightforward herbal tea made from one active ingredient: sage leaf. There are no added inactive ingredients listed.

Does it work?

Couldn't assess
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Not assessable

We hold no graded evidence for this product's ingredients for its stated purpose.

Why this rating?
  • The label markets this product for: soothing, cooling digestive aid.
  • We looked for evidence on: digestive health, gastrointestinal comfort, indigestion.
  • Our graded evidence for these ingredients doesn't cover that particular purpose.

The evidence we hold shows sage is possibly effective for menopausal symptoms, high cholesterol (hyperlipidemia), and cognitive function — meaning some clinical evidence supports these uses, but more research would strengthen the case. For postoperative pain, the evidence is possibly ineffective.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Sage

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Sage tea is generally well tolerated when you drink it short-term as a food. However, concentrated extracts and the essential oil carry more risk.

The most common side effects from oral use are abdominal pain, agitation, diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Rare but serious cases of seizures have been reported, linked to thujone, camphor, and cineol compounds in the plant.

The safety data advises against medicinal or concentrated amounts during pregnancy because of thujone content — food amounts are likely okay. During breastfeeding, avoid medicinal amounts; sage has traditionally been used to reduce milk supply, so talk with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it in concentrated form while nursing.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Sage

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Sage.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: seizure medications; diabetes medications.
  • For scale: 1,297 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking Alvita Sage regularly, double-check it with your doctor or pharmacist if you take CNS depressants (sedatives, sleep aids, tranquilizers) or blood pressure medications — both carry Moderate interaction risk. Also confirm it's safe if you take hormone therapy (including birth control), or any medication metabolized by your liver, since sage may raise levels of those drugs.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no assessable stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Sage tea is a reasonable option if you're interested in menopausal symptom relief or supporting cholesterol levels, and it's generally well tolerated as a casual herbal beverage. However, if you take sedatives, blood pressure medications, hormone therapy, or medications processed by your liver, you should check with your doctor or pharmacist before making sage a regular habit.

Avoid concentrated forms during pregnancy and breastfeeding without talking it over with your healthcare provider first.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Aug 23, 2022.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Sage, straight from the product label.

Brand Alvita
Net contents 24 Tea Bag(s); 1.13 Oz(s); 32 Gram(s)
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Aug 23, 2022
DSLD ID 268737
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Other (e.g. Tea Bag)
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Kosher, Women (not pregnant or lactating), Organic, Gluten Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Sage by Alvita, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 Tea Bag(s)
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 Tea Bag(s)
Servings per container
24
IngredientAmount% DV
Sage1.33 Gram(s)--

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Formulation

Organic

Traditionally used as a soothing, cooling digestive aid

NSF Certified Gluten-Free Naturally caffeine free

Certified Organic by QAI.

Certified Gluten-Free by NSF.

Brand IP Statement(s)

Alvita Since 1922

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

Seals/Symbols

NSF Certified Gluten-Free USDA Organic

Quality Assurance International Certified Organic Star-K (Kosher)

Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Preparation Place one tea bag in a cup and add 8 oz of boiling water. Cover and steep for 10 minutes. Gently squeeze tea bag and remove. Directions for use: We recommend 3 cups daily. Not for long term use. Add sweetener if desired

How to brew Pour 8 oz 1 Temp 212 Degrees F 2 Steep 10 min 3

Formula

Star-K (Kosher)

Sage Since ancient times, sage (Salvia officinalis) has been associated with good health. The herb's Latin name, Salvia, translates into "to be saved." In Chinese, Indian, and North American herbal practices, tea made from sage leaves has been used as a soothing, cooling digestive aid.

Alvita Sage Tea is made with premium-quality, organic sage leaves, and produces a peppery fragrance with a mildly astringent flavor.

General Statements

The Alvita Story… In 1922, a new era for tea consumption began in America. The herb alfalfa, long known for its beneficial nutrients, was packaged in tea bags and sold to an emerging health food market. This product became known as Alvita and set the standard for future herbal teas. Today, Alvita represents more than forty single-ingredient teas, each one uniquely distinct, just like the individuals who drink them. Alvita chooses only the highest quality organic, wildcrafted, or cultivated botanicals, perfectly prepared to provide you with the best Mother Nature has to offer. Historical and scientific literature is painstakingly studied to ensure that the correct traditional plant and most appropriate servings are used, delivering premium flavor and quality. Herbs are gifts from the earth. Alvita takes its stewardship seriously by offering carefully harvested teas in earth-friendly packaging. Our beautifully illustrated boxes are made using recycled paperboard and our English, pillow style tea bags are oxygen bleached, not chlorine treated. You won’t find a better product, with a cleaner package… anywhere. Alvita… brewed with confidence, steeped in tradition. 100% Recycled Paperboard Recyclable

Precautions

WARNING: Do not use if you are pregnant or nursing. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are taking any medication or have any medical condition.

Keep out of reach of children.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

See for yourself

Sage by Alvita label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Sage by Alvita

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 Tea Bag(s) Dosage formOther (e.g. Tea Bag) Servings per container24 Amounts shown are per serving.

Sage

Interacts with
1,296 drugs
1.33 Gram(s) per serving

Sage is a common kitchen herb that is generally safe in food amounts and is traditionally used for sore throats, digestion, sweating, and memory. Some...

Sage monograph & interactions
Interaction report

Sage by Alvita Drug Interactions

Want to check YOUR meds against Sage?

Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

Go to the checker
1,296Drugs
1,296 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Sage 1,296

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Sage with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Sage14 drug types · 1,296 drugs

Anticholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, sage might decrease the clinical effects of anticholinergic drugs.
In vitro evidence suggests that common sage (Salvia officinalis) and Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) can inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Anticonvulsants

Theoretically, sage might interfere with the clinical effects of anticonvulsant drugs.
Some species of sage can cause convulsions when consumed in large quantities.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Antidiabetes Drugs

Theoretically, taking sage with antidiabetes drugs might increase the risk of hypoglycemia.
In patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes, common sage (Salvia officinalis) has demonstrated hypoglycemic activity. However, other clinical research in patients with inadequately controlled type 2 diabetes shows that common sage extract does not lower fasting blood glucose levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence B
Antihypertensive Drugs

Theoretically, sage might increase or decrease the effects of antihypertensive drugs.
Animal research suggests that common sage (Salvia officinalis) can cause prolonged blood pressure reduction. However, clinical research suggests that Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) can increase blood pressure in some people with hypertension. Until more is known, use with caution.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Benzodiazepines

Theoretically, taking sage might increase the sedative and adverse effects of benzodiazepines.
In vitro evidence suggests that certain components of common sage (Salvia officinalis) can bind to benzodiazepine receptors. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cholinergic Drugs

Theoretically, sage might have additive effects when used with cholinergic drugs.
In vitro evidence suggests that common sage (Salvia officinalis) and Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia) can inhibit acetylcholinesterase and might increase acetylcholine levels.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cns Depressants

Theoretically, taking sage might increase the sedative and adverse effects of CNS depressants.
Some constituents of sage have CNS depressant activity.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C19 (Cyp2C19) Substrates

Theoretically, sage might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C19.
In vitro evidence suggests that aqueous extracts of sage can inhibit CYP2C19. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2C9 (Cyp2C9) Substrates

Theoretically, sage might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2C9.
In vitro evidence suggests that aqueous extracts of sage can inhibit CYP2C9. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2D6 (Cyp2D6) Substrates

Theoretically, sage might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6.
In vitro evidence suggests that aqueous extracts of sage can inhibit CYP2D6. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 2E1 (Cyp2E1) Substrates

Theoretically, sage might decrease the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP2E1.
Animal research suggests that drinking common sage (Salvia officinalis) tea increases the expression of CYP2E1. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, sage might increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro evidence suggests that aqueous extracts of sage can inhibit CYP3A4. So far, this interaction has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, sage might interfere with hormone therapy.
In vitro evidence suggests that geraniol, a constituent of Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia), exerts estrogenic activity. The clinical significance of this effect is unclear.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
P-Glycoprotein Substrates

Theoretically, sage might increase levels of drugs transported by P-glycoprotein.
In vitro research suggests that common sage (Salvia officinalis) can inhibit the multi-drug transporter protein, P-glycoprotein. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Sage, from the product label.

Alvita

See all Alvita products
Name
Twinlab Corporation
City
American Fork
State
UT
ZipCode
84003
Phone Number
1-800-645-5626
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Sage by Alvita: Common Questions

Does Sage by Alvita interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Sage has a known interaction with 1,296 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Sage contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
Is sage tea safe to drink every day?
As a casual tea, sage is generally well tolerated short-term. If you're thinking of making it a daily habit, especially if you take medications, check with your doctor or pharmacist first — it can interact with blood pressure drugs, sedatives, and liver-metabolized medications.
Can I use sage tea if I'm pregnant?
The safety data advises against medicinal or concentrated amounts during pregnancy because of a compound called thujone. Food amounts (like occasional tea) are likely fine, but to be sure, talk with your doctor.
Can I take sage while breastfeeding?
Medicinal amounts aren't recommended — sage has traditionally been used to reduce milk supply. Stick to food amounts, and check with your doctor or pharmacist before using concentrated extracts or supplements while nursing.
What does sage help with, according to the evidence?
The evidence shows sage is possibly effective for menopausal symptoms, high cholesterol, and cognitive function. For postoperative pain, the evidence suggests it's possibly ineffective.
What side effects might I notice from sage tea?
Most common side effects are abdominal pain, agitation, diarrhea, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Rare but serious seizures have been reported in connection with certain compounds in sage, especially at higher doses.
Does sage interact with birth control?
Yes — sage contains compounds with estrogenic activity that theoretically may interfere with hormone therapy, including birth control. Confirm it's safe with your doctor or pharmacist before combining them.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

Not sure if Sage is safe with your meds?

Our pharmacists answer your medication & supplement questions — free.

Ask a pharmacist

Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Sage label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Sage's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 27 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Sage 27 references
  1. Brinker F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 2nd ed. Sandy, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications, 1998.
  2. Todorov S, Philianos S, Petkov V, et al. Experimental pharmacological study of three species from genus Salvia. Acta Physiol Pharmacol (Bulg) 1984;10:13-20.
  3. Perry NS, Bollen C, Perry EK, Ballard C. Salvia for dementia therapy: review of pharmacological activity and pilot tolerability clinical trial. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2003;75:651-9.. PubMed
  4. Saller R, Buechi S, Meyrat R, Schmidhauser C. Combined herbal preparation for topical treatment of Herpes labialis. Forsch Komplementarmed Klass Naturheilkd 2001;8:373-82. PubMed
  5. Akhondzadeh S, Noroozian M, Mohammadi M, 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;28:53-9.
  6. Perry NB, Anderson RE, Brennan NJ, et al. Essential oils from dalmatian sage (Salvia officinalis l.): variations among individuals, plant parts, seasons, and sites. J Agric Food Chem 1999;47:2048-54..
  7. Foster BC, Vandenhoek S, Hana J, et al. In vitro inhibition of human cytochrome P450-mediated metabolism of marker substrates by natural products. Phytomedicine 2003;10:334-42.. PubMed
  8. Burkhard PR, Burkhardt K, Haenggeli CA, Landis T. Plant-induced seizures: reappearance of an old problem. J Neurol 1999;246:667-70. PubMed
  9. Bommer S, Klein P, Suter A. First time proof of sage's tolerability and efficacy in menopausal women with hot flushes. Adv Ther 2011;28:490-500. PubMed
  10. Hellum BH, Nilsen OG. The in vitro inhibitory potential of trade herbal products on human CYP2D6-mediated metabolism and the influence of ethanol. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2007 Nov;101:350-8.
  11. Orhan, I., Kartal, M., Kan, Y., and Sener, B. Activity of essential oils and individual components against acetyl- and butyrylcholinesterase. Z.Naturforsch.C. 2008;63(7-8):547-553.
  12. Perry, N. S., Houghton, P. J., Theobald, A., Jenner, P., and Perry, E. K. In-vitro inhibition of human erythrocyte acetylcholinesterase by salvia lavandulaefolia essential oil and constituent terpenes. J Pharm Pharmacol 2000;52(7):895-902.
  13. Perry, N. S., Houghton, P. J., Sampson, J., Theobald, A. E., Hart, S., Lis-Balchin, M., Hoult, J. R., Evans, P., Jenner, P., Milligan, S., and Perry, E. K. In-vitro activity of S. lavandulaefolia (Spanish sage) relevant to treatment of Alzheimer's diseas
  14. Futrell, J. M. and Rietschel, R. L. Spice allergy evaluated by results of patch tests. Cutis 1993;52(5):288-290.
  15. Kavvadias, D., Monschein, V., Sand, P., Riederer, P., and Schreier, P. Constituents of sage (Salvia officinalis) with in vitro affinity to human brain benzodiazepine receptor. Planta Med. 2003;69(2):113-117.
  16. Savelev, S. U., Okello, E. J., and Perry, E. K. Butyryl- and acetyl-cholinesterase inhibitory activities in essential oils of Salvia species and their constituents. Phytother Res 2004;18(4):315-324.
  17. Kennedy, D. O., Pace, S., Haskell, C., Okello, E. J., Milne, A., and Scholey, A. B. Effects of cholinesterase inhibiting sage (Salvia officinalis) on mood, anxiety and performance on a psychological stressor battery. Neuropsychopharmacology 2006;31(4):84 PubMed
  18. Hubbert, M., Sievers, H., Lehnfeld, R., and Kehrl, W. Efficacy and tolerability of a spray with Salvia officinalis in the treatment of acute pharyngitis - a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with adaptive design and interim analysis. Eur
  19. Lima, C. F., Fernandes-Ferreira, M., and Pereira-Wilson, C. Drinking of Salvia officinalis tea increases CCl(4)-induced hepatotoxicity in mice. Food Chem.Toxicol. 2007;45(3):456-464.
  20. Hellum, B. H. and Nilsen, O. G. In vitro inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolism and P-glycoprotein-mediated transport by trade herbal products. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol. 2008;102(5):466-475.
  21. Mayer, E., Gescheidt-Shoshany, H., and Weltfriend, S. Allergic contact dermatitis caused by Salvia officinalis extract. Contact Dermatitis 2011;64(4):237-238. PubMed
  22. Halicioglu, O., Astarcioglu, G., Yaprak, I., and Aydinlioglu, H. Toxicity of Salvia officinalis in a newborn and a child: an alarming report. Pediatr.Neurol. 2011;45(4):259-260. PubMed
  23. Sertoli, A., Fabbri, P., Campolmi, P., and Panconesi, E. Allergic contact dermatitis to Salvia Officinalis, Inula Viscosa and Conyza Bonariensis. Contact Dermatitis 1978;4(5):314-315.
  24. Vandecasteele K, Ost P, Oosterlinck W, et al. Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Salvia officinalis in controlling hot flashes in prostate cancer patients treated with androgen deprivation. Phytother Res. 2012;26(2):208-13.
  25. Kianbakht S, Dabaghian FH. Improved glycemic control and lipid profile in hyperlipidemic type 2 diabetic patients consuming Salvia officinalis L. leaf extract: a randomized placebo. Controlled clinical trial. Complement Ther Med. 2013;21(5):441-6. PubMed
  26. Amini L, Mojab F, Jahanfar S, Sepidarkish M, Raoofi Z, Maleki-Hajiagha A. Efficacy of Salvia officinalis extract on the prevention of insulin resistance in euglycemic patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: A double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical tr
  27. Behradmanesh S, Derees F, Rafieian-Kopaei M. Effect of Salvia officinalis on diabetic patients. J Renal Inj Prev. 2013;2(2):51-4.

See these in context on the Sage monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Keep exploring