Herbs Guide

Lovage

Family Name: Umbelliferae

Botanical Name(s): Levisticum Officinale

Popular Name(s): Ligusticum Levisticum, English Lovage, Italian Lovage and Cornish Lovage.

Parts Used: Root, leaves, seeds

Habitat: It is a native of the Mediterranean region.

Description: It has a thick and fleshy root, 5 or 6 inches long, shaped like a carrot, of a grayish-brown color on the outside and whitish within. It has a strong aromatic smell and taste. The thick, erect hollow and channeled stems grow 3 or 4 feet or even more in height.

Uses: Lovage is used to treat kidney stones, jaundice, malaria, sore throat, pleurisy, rheumatism, gout, and boils. This plant also works well in treating indigestion, gas, and colic, especially in children, and it helps stimulate the appetite. It also improves circulation. Lovage is widely used as a flavoring ingredient, too, in various liquors, herb bitters and sauces.