Salvia sclarea, commonly known as clary, clary sage, or bright eye, is a biennial plant native to the northern Mediterranean, some of North Africa, and Central Asia. The large aromatic leaves and tiny pink and blue flowers make this a popular garden plant. Historically, clary sage was added to wines and beers. It was thought to make the beverage headier and one ‘drunker.’ The scientific name ‘sclarea’ is derived from the Latin word ‘claurus,’ meaning clear. The mucilage from the seeds was used as an eyewash to remove small particles. Medicinally, clary sage has been used to ease bloating and digestive and menstrual cramps. The essential oil is used in the perfume trade and by aroma therapists.

Scientific research on the anti-microbial activities of some Salvia species has been well documented. S. sclarea extracts and essential oil showed both anti-oxidant and anti-microbial properties. Clary oil displayed fungicidal activity against various fungi, including Aspergillus, Penicillium, Candida, and Cladosporium. It was reported that the essential oil has anti-bacterial activity against Staphylococci found in wound infections.