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Is Sage the Same as Salvia?

Sage IS the same as Salvia.

More Info: The genus Salvia is the largest group of plants in the mint family, which includes nearly 900 species of shrubs, perennials and annuals. The ornamental plants that belong to the genus Salvia are commonly referred to as sage.

Sage Background

While Salvia is available and capable of growing in most regions of the world, it is native to Central and South America, Central Asia, the Mediterranean and Eastern Asia. Most Salvia is grown and used as decorative plants although there are some varieties that have been used for medicinal, cooking and even psychedelic reasons.

Sage Salvia Species

The sage used for culinary purposes is from the species Salvia officinalis better known as common sage.

Additional species of Salvia include Salvia apiana, or white sage, which is often used for "smudging" in numerous ceremonial practices.  Salvia divinorum, also known as diviner's sage, has been grown for its perception altering drug effects.