Botanical Overview
Levisticum officinale, commonly known as Lovage or Love parsley, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and the Mediterranean region. The plant’s root, leaves, and seeds are traditionally used for their medicinal properties.
Energetics
Levisticum officinale is considered warming and drying. Its taste profile includes bitter, pungent, and sweet notes. Energetically, it has an ascending directionality and is tonifying, primarily influencing qi and fluid aspects of physiology.
Primary Actions
- Diuretic
- Carminative
- Antispasmodic
- Anti-inflammatory
Indications
Western
- Urinary tract infections
- Indigestion, bloating, flatulence
- Kidney stones
- Cough and bronchitis
Syndromes
- Urinary retention
- Digestive spasms
- Bronchitis
TCM
No documented traditional Chinese medicine uses verified.
Ayurveda
No specific documented uses found.
Unani
No specific documented uses found.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Levisticum officinale contains essential oils rich in volatile compounds, coumarins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its carminative, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g dried herb, 2-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL, 2-3 times daily
- Essential oil internal use is not recommended due to potency and toxicity concerns
Safety & Contraindications
Use with caution in pregnancy due to potential uterotonic effects. Possible photosensitivity and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Avoid if allergic to Apiaceae family plants. Monitor additive effects with diuretics and photosensitizing drugs.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable traditional planetary or elemental rulers documented.
Selected References
- Levisticum officinale (Lovage) – Plants For A Future
- Community Herbal Monograph on Levisticum officinale W.D.J. Koch, herba – European Medicines Agency (2018)
- Levisticum officinale – Handbook of Medicinal Herbs by James A. Duke (2002)
- Levisticum officinale – Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects (2011)