Definition:

Moroccan Arabic: ??????

Salmia is the Arabic word for common sage (Salvia officinalis). In Morocco, sage is available in fresh or dry form and may be referred to by its French name, sauge. In Moroccan cuisine, sage shows up primarily to make an herbal green tea, although it may be used more sparingly to flavor bread or soup. It should be noted that dried sage is more pungent than fresh leaves.

Moroccans also use sage for its medicinal properties. Sage can ease gastrointestinal problems, reduce perspiration, treat menopausal and menstrual discomforts, and act as an astringent and antibacterial rinse for mouth sores, tonsillitis and gingivitis.

Large quantities of sage can induce uterine contractions and cause convulsions, and therefore should be avoided by pregnant women and individuals prone to seizures.

Also see the Moroccan Tea with Sage recipe.

Alternate Spellings: salmiya