Steppe Sage. Rostov Region

In hot weather, blooming sage in the Don steppe emits a spicy and rich fragrance, somewhat similar to the aroma of lavender, with hints of wild herbs and pine. Moreover, the purple-violet flowers stand out prominently against the mixed grassland background.

In the region, the most common type is steppe sage (or meadow sage). It prefers dry meadows, forest edges, and grows along roadsides, fields, and wastelands. The plant's stem, along with its flowers, reaches up to 60 centimeters in height.

The medicinal properties of sage have been known since ancient times. The beneficial qualities of sage for humans are due to its high content of essential oils, tannins, and phytoncides. The plant has astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. It is used in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, sore throats, stomatitis, and bladder inflammation. Sage is also used to relieve toothache.

Sage is a highly aromatic spice, added in small quantities to cheese and herb omelets, kebabs (especially pork and lamb), homemade sausages, kidneys, game, and ham.

In folklore, sage was given special attention. Women, especially young ones, were often made to drink brewed sage to increase fertility. It was believed that planting sage in the yard would prolong the life of the household members. To protect their home from evil spirits, peasants would bury an old sock filled with sage under the threshold.