What is the difference between rubbed sage and ground sage?

The other poster is incorrect. Rubbed sage is not fresh. Look up Durkee Rubbed Sage for an accurate description. Rubbed Sage is a dry form that is really light and fluffy, almost cotton-y. It's harder to sprinkle, as it sticks together. Ground Sage is more dense (and stronger), like tiny bits of Dried Thyme or other dried herbs, but not as fine as a powder.

What is the difference between rubbed sage and ground sage?
The ground sage will be much finer than the rub which is larger in size. Rub is made to flavor outside and ground will make flavor penetrate deeper.
Reply:Any "ground" herb usually implies that the herb has been dried. A "rubbed" herb means that fresh herb is used.





A dried herb leaf, sage or otherwise, won't really "rub" in the traditional sense; rubbing means that the leaves are rolled and pressed between the fingers or palms, to release the essential oils (and the flavor/aroma). The leaves are left more-or-less intact.





A ground herb (or a ground ANYthing) means that it's pulverized, which is what happens when the herb is dried.