The harvesting of Mediterranean sage, Ada çay, has begun in Silifke in Mersin. The employees of Çaltıbozkır cooperative are harvesting sage for further sale in the form of tea and essential oil. The essential oil is made here, in a distillation plant donated to the cooperative by the city municipality as part of a rural support program. From 80 kg of sage, 1 liter of essential oil is obtained. Çaltıbozkır has also been producing and processing lavender since 2021.
Sage is an excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. The plant has estrogen-like, antimicrobial effects and lowers blood sugar levels. It is used in the treatment of colds, including gargles to disinfect the mouth. An infusion of sage is good for relieving gastrointestinal cramps.