Botanical Profile
Note: Statements on lovage should differentiate between root, herb and seeds.
Lovage is a traditional European culinary, root and aromatic plant of the Apiaceae. The plant is known for its strong celery-like aroma.
Levisticum officinale is a vigorous perennial umbellifer with large pinnate leaves, hollow stems, yellowish umbels and a strongly aromatic root. The plant was cultivated early in European herb and monastic gardens. In pharmacognostic literature the root, Levistici radix, is the main focus; leaves and young shoots are also used in culinary practice.
Phytochemistry
Lovage contains essential oil, phthalides, coumarins, furanocoumarins, phenolic acids and other aromatic root and leaf constituents. Its characteristic odour is substantially shaped by phthalide-related compounds. Root, leaf and fruit differ markedly in their constituent profiles.
Traditional Uses
Lovage has a long tradition as a spice and garden plant. It was cultivated in monastic and cottage gardens for its strong aroma. Historical herbals describe lovage as a root and spice plant. Pharmacopoeial and standard-reference literature treats the root as a distinct herbal-drug context.
Current Research
Research on lovage addresses essential oil, phthalides, coumarins, furanocoumarins, analytical quality control and experimental antioxidant and antimicrobial fields. Scientifically, differentiation between leaf, fruit and root profiles is relevant.
Sources
- European Pharmacopoeia: Levistici radix.
- Wichtl M. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals – Lovage.
- Hager's Handbook of Pharmaceutical Practice – Levisticum officinale.
- Phytochemical literature on Levisticum officinale, essential oil, phthalides and furanocoumarins.
Notice
The information presented in this botanical profile has been compiled to the best of our knowledge and belief from botanical, phytochemical, historical and scientific sources. It is intended solely for general professional information and initial orientation.
The content does not constitute an assurance of specific properties, effects, qualities or possible uses of products or extracts. In particular, it does not constitute a guarantee, a statement of suitability, or a statement regarding marketability, permissibility or usability in specific applications or markets.
Assessment of the suitability of a raw material or extract for a particular intended use, as well as compliance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements, is the sole responsibility of the respective user.