Lovage (Levisticum officinale syn. Ligusticum levisticum)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Apiaceae
• Common Names: Lovage, Garden Lovage, Love Parsley
• Parts Used: Leaves, roots, seeds

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Description

Levisticum officinale is a perennial herb native to Southern Europe and Western Asia, cultivated for its aromatic leaves, roots, and seeds. It has been traditionally used for digestion, respiratory health, and urinary tract support.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional European herbal medicine for digestive health and detoxification.
• Employed as a diuretic and urinary antiseptic in traditional folk medicine.
• Historically used to relieve respiratory congestion and promote circulation.
• Used as a culinary herb for flavoring soups, stews, and broths.

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Constituents

• Essential oils (ligustilide, α-terpineol, myristicin)
• Coumarins
• Phthalides
• Flavonoids
• Tannins

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Actions

• Carminative
• Diuretic
• Expectorant
• Antispasmodic
• Digestive stimulant
• Circulatory tonic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Lovage stimulates digestion, reduces bloating, and eases gas and indigestion.

2. Urinary Tract Support:
Acts as a diuretic, promoting kidney and bladder health while helping prevent infections.

3. Respiratory Relief:
Traditionally used as an expectorant to clear mucus from the lungs and relieve coughs.

4. Circulatory Support:
Encourages blood flow and has mild warming properties, useful for cold extremities.

5. Anti-Inflammatory and Muscle Relaxant Effects:
Used for joint pain, muscle tension, and inflammatory conditions.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves or root per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to sore joints or skin irritations.

Culinary Use:

• Leaves and seeds can be used fresh or dried in soups and stews.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid high doses, as lovage has uterine-stimulating properties.
• Kidney Disorders: Use with caution in individuals with kidney disease due to its diuretic effects.
• Photosensitivity: May increase sensitivity to sunlight; avoid excessive sun exposure.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and stimulating; supports digestion, circulation, and detoxification.
• Traditional European Medicine: Valued for kidney and bladder health, as well as respiratory support.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Vata, but excessive use may aggravate Pitta.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Support: Combine with fennel and ginger.
• For Urinary Health: Combine with goldenrod and uva ursi.
• For Respiratory Support: Combine with thyme and mullein.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and roots are collected in late spring through autumn.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried leaves and seeds in airtight containers away from light and moisture.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Levisticum officinale’s diuretic, digestive, and expectorant properties, supporting its traditional applications.

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Lovage remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for digestion, respiratory support, and urinary tract health.