The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) includes sage, Salvia officinalis on its list of substances considered Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as spices and other natural seasonings and flavorings, and on the list of GRAS essential oils, oleoresins and natural extractives.

Botanical and botanically derived ingredients used in the formulation of cosmetics are generally mild and safe. Prior to marketing the finished cosmetic product, the safety of each ingredient must be substantiated in accordance with 21 CFR 740.10. Safety substantiation of cosmetic ingredients may include tests for ocular and skin irritation as well as allergenicity, phototoxicity, photoallergenicity and mutagenicity, depending on the application or intended use. There is a considerable body of information about the safety of botanical ingredients and a well established history of use. These resources are consulted to ensure the safety of these materials as they are used in cosmetics.