Sage, scientifically known Salvia officinalis, is an evergreen perennial shrub with woody stems, greyish leaves and purplish flowers. It originated in the Mediterranean region and is now grown all over the world. A member of the Lamiaceae family, sage is renowned for its aromatic leaves. As well as being widely used in culinary dishes for its characteristic peppery flavour, sage has applications in traditional medicine, cosmetics and ornamental gardening.