Clary Sage

A natural history

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) is the taller, softer cousin of common sage, a distinct species with a gentler, almost floral character. Its old name, clary, comes down to us as clear eye, from a historic reputation as a soother for the eyes. Today its flowering tops give a prized, balancing oil rich in the same calming compounds found in lavender.

What it does for your skin

Clary sage is the gentle, balancing member of the sage family. Its oil is rich in the soft, soothing compounds linalyl acetate and linalool, the same calming molecules found in lavender, with its own antimicrobial character.^[1] In a formula it lends a balancing, comforting touch, well suited to combination or stressed looking skin. That balancing, comforting character comes from its makeup of soft, calming linalool and linalyl acetate.

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