How does Sibelius sage™ work?

Sage (Salvia officinalis ) has a long history of traditional use in Western Herbal medicine, including for cognitive support.

The mechanism of action has not been fully uncovered at this time, and this is possibly because it affects a number of different pathways that are involved in cognitive function.  However, at this time there are interesting actions that have been uncovered that may help explain the effect in part.

Neurotransmitters are broken down in the body by enzymes. Sage extracts have been shown to inhibit the action of acetylcholinesterase; the enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.  Acetylcholine is found in the brain in areas associated with attention, memory and motivation.

In addition, sage has been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and estrogenic properties. Hormonal imbalance, inflammation and oxidative stress may all contribute to decreased cognitive function.