Lovage: Benefits, Properties, Contraindications, and Curative Uses

Leușteanul (Levisticum officinale) is a perennial aromatic plant, known and used since ancient times for both culinary and therapeutic purposes. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is related to celery, parsley, and coriander. Native to the mountainous regions of southern Europe and Western Asia, lovage has spread rapidly due to its intense aroma and beneficial properties.

In traditional medicine, lovage was valued for its ability to support digestion, stimulate the elimination of water from the body, and calm internal inflammation. Today, modern phytotherapy confirms these uses, highlighting the presence of valuable active compounds such as essential oils, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and coumarins.

Used in soups, broths, or medicinal teas, lovage is a valuable natural resource for maintaining health. Below, you will discover more about its characteristics, benefits for the body, ways of use, and situations where it is recommended to be administered with caution.

What are the defining characteristics of lovage?

Lovage, or Levisticum officinale, is an easily recognizable perennial herbaceous plant in gardens and nature. It can grow up to 1-2 meters in height, with rigid, upright stems. Its large, shiny, dark green leaves, with toothed and slightly wavy edges, are its most distinctive feature.

The flowers of lovage, although not as visible as the leaves, are also an integral part of its identity. They are small, yellow, and grouped in umbelliform inflorescences, typical of the Apiaceae family. Under the ground, lovage has a thick, fleshy taproot that anchors the plant and is an important source of active compounds.

One of the most notable aspects of lovage is its strong and specific fragrance. Similar to celery, the smell of lovage is more intense and complex, due to the essential oils it contains, such as limonene and eugenol. Its taste is slightly pungent, making it a popular ingredient in various recipes.

Botanically, lovage belongs to the Apiaceae family, also known as Umbelliferae, which also includes other aromatic and medicinal plants such as parsley, carrots, and celery. It originates from southern Europe and Western Asia, from where it has spread to various parts of the world.

In popular culture, lovage is known as “garden celery” due to its resemblance to celery and its frequent use in gardens.

Qualities

On the other hand, various parts of the plant are used for their specific qualities. The leaves are mainly used in cooking to flavor dishes. The seeds are used for their medicinal properties, being rich in essential oils and other active compounds. The root, although less popular than the leaves, is used in both gastronomy and for therapeutic purposes.

Nutritionally, lovage is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamin C, known for its antioxidant effects and for supporting the immune system. It is also a good source of vitamin A, important for eye and skin health, and vitamin K, essential for blood clotting and bone health.

Regarding minerals, lovage contains iron, calcium, and potassium. Iron is essential for hemoglobin formation and oxygen transport, while calcium and potassium contribute to bone health and electrolyte balance.

In fact, lovage extract is also found in the composition of Energy & Vitality 200ml, a concentrated blend of adaptogenic plants and superfruits such as aronia, Korean ginseng, or Ashwagandha, created to support daily energy, mental clarity, and stress resistance. Combined with other tonic and antioxidant ingredients, lovage contributes to maintaining an active metabolism and optimal vitality naturally.

Photo source: Aronia-charlottenburg.ro

Benefits and nutritional properties of lovage

Lovage is a plant that brings much more than flavor to food – it has a composition rich in nutrients and active substances with beneficial effects on health. Used for centuries in traditional cuisine, lovage is also a valuable ally for the body:

• It contains important vitamins such as C, A, and K. Vitamin C helps strengthen immunity and collagen formation, A is essential for eye and skin health, and K contributes to normal blood clotting. In addition, lovage provides iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium – important minerals for bones, muscles, and the nervous system.
• It is also recognized for its antioxidant effects. The flavonoids and other substances in its composition help protect cells from oxidative stress, which can prevent premature aging and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Digestion

• Digestively, lovage has a calming effect. The essential oils in its leaves and stem support digestion, reduce bloating, and can soothe abdominal cramps. It is also useful for colic, but in children, it should only be used on the recommendation of a specialist.
• It also has a strong diuretic effect, supporting the proper functioning of the kidneys and the elimination of excess water and toxins from the body. It can help prevent kidney stones and reduce fluid retention.
• Thanks to quercetin and limonene, it also has anti-inflammatory properties, useful in cases of arthritis, gout, or intestinal inflammation. It can also support respiratory health through its expectorant effect, helping to clear mucus in cases of cough or congestion.
• Cardiovascularly, lovage contributes to regulating blood pressure, helps lower cholesterol, and protects blood vessels. Its anti-inflammatory action also helps prevent heart disease.

Although the benefits are promising, many of them are based on traditional uses or preliminary studies. However, included in a balanced diet, lovage can bring a real health boost.

Use of lovage seeds, leaves, root, and tea in traditional and modern medicine

Lovage is one of the few plants that therapeutically valorizes almost all its components—from seeds and leaves to the root and preparations such as tea or essential oil. In folk medicine, each part of the plant was used for a specific need, and today these uses are increasingly supported by modern studies.

In the past, lovage seeds, for example, were frequently administered for indigestion, bloating, or lack of appetite. They were added to teas or finely ground and mixed into liquid preparations. In rural areas, they were sometimes even used to soothe colic in infants—but with great caution. More recently, it has been discovered that seed extracts have antimicrobial potential, including against some bacteria common in food poisoning.

Lovage leaves, the most commonly used, are known for their diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant effects. In the past, they were traditionally used in teas for kidney drainage, reducing water retention, or for coughs with phlegm. Currently, leaf extracts are being studied for possible effects on blood sugar regulation, making them promising in supporting the management of type 2 diabetes. Applied externally, crushed fresh leaves can soothe inflamed or swollen areas, due to their anti-inflammatory compounds.

The root is less present in current recipes, but it was previously valued for its strong diuretic effect and ability to support detoxification. In cases of rheumatism, it was used in decoctions to stimulate the elimination of uric acid and reduce joint inflammation. Today, research highlights the possible antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects of root extracts, suggesting a beneficial role in maintaining liver function.

Lovage tea

However, lovage tea, prepared from dried leaves or root, remains one of the most accessible forms of consumption. It is commonly used for its diuretic effect, but also as an adjunct for slow digestion, slightly elevated blood pressure, or bloating. Due to its potassium content and action on the elimination of excess sodium, it can indirectly help balance blood pressure.

In addition to physical benefits, many also consume it for its mild calming effect, especially during periods of increased stress or sleep disturbances.

The essential oil obtained from lovage, although less commonly used, has interesting applications in aromatherapy or skin products. For example, it is being tested for its antibacterial action and for possible relaxing effects on the nervous system.

Scientific interest in lovage continues to grow, especially in the direction of compounds with anti-tumor or neuroprotective potential. Recent experimental studies have observed promising effects of some lovage substances on cancer cells and in protecting neurons in contexts such as Alzheimer’s. Although more extensive research is needed, the direction is promising.

Increasingly, the food and supplement industries are turning to lovage extracts as potential natural preservatives, due to their antimicrobial effects already observed in the laboratory. Thus, lovage remains not only a staple ingredient in the kitchen but also a rediscovered therapeutic resource.

Contraindications and side effects of lovage

Lovage is appreciated for its numerous beneficial effects, but like any medicinal plant, it should be used with caution. There are situations where its consumption can have unwanted effects, especially in certain categories of people or in combination with drug treatments.

First of all, pregnant women should avoid consuming lovage in large quantities or in concentrated form (tinctures, capsules, essential oil). Due to its stimulant effect on the uterus, there is a risk of triggering contractions, which can lead to complications. Caution is also necessary during breastfeeding, as there is not enough evidence to certify the safety of its administration.

Allergies represent another risk, especially for people who have sensitivities to other plants in the Apiaceae family, such as parsley, celery, or carrots. In these cases, allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties may occur. Before introducing lovage into your diet, it is advisable to test a small amount.

People with kidney conditions should be careful, especially since lovage has a strong diuretic effect. Excessive consumption can disrupt water and electrolyte balance, leading to dehydration or kidney strain. Also, patients undergoing diuretic treatments should consult their doctor before using lovage.

Among the adverse effects, the most frequently mentioned is photosensitivity. Lovage contains furocoumarins, substances that can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays. Exposure to the sun after consuming lovage (especially in the form of oil or tincture) can cause irritation, burns, or skin allergic reactions.

Medications

Drug interactions are another concern. Due to its vitamin K content, lovage can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulant treatments, such as warfarin. At the same time, it can amplify the effects of other diuretics, increasing the risk of electrolyte imbalances and sudden drops in blood pressure.

Special attention should also be paid to hormonal treatments or conditions where liver metabolism plays an important role. Certain compounds in lovage can affect how the liver processes medications, altering their concentrations in the blood. This is riskier with strictly dosed medications.

Last but not least, although lovage can contribute to lowering blood pressure, excessive consumption can lead to fluctuations. These are not well tolerated by people with unstable hypertension or hypotension.

Therefore, lovage presents itself as a multifaceted plant whose potential benefits are accompanied by the need for responsible and informed use. It is not just a spice, but a valuable ally for health. The condition is to integrate it carefully into your lifestyle. Always consult a specialist before starting any herbal treatment, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking medications. This way, you will ensure that you make the most of nature’s gifts without endangering your health!

References:

• U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2019). FoodData Central;
• European Medicines Agency. (2018). Assessment report on Levisticum officinale Koch, radix;
• EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA). (2010). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to vitamin C and protection of DNA, proteins and lipids from oxidative damage. EFSA Journal, 8(10), 1815;
• National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2021). Vitamin K.