The Benefits of Lovage (Levistico)

Lovage (Levistico)

The Benefits of Lovage (Levistico): A Detailed Overview

History of Lovage

Lovage, known as Levistico in Italian, is a perennial herb native to Europe and parts of Asia. It has been used for over 2,000 years, with historical records indicating that it was widely cultivated in ancient Rome and Greece for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The name "lovage" is believed to come from the Latin word levisticum, which is derived from levare, meaning "to lighten" or "to alleviate," referring to the herb's traditional use in easing digestive and urinary issues.

In medieval times, lovage was grown in monastic gardens and was believed to have magical properties, warding off evil spirits and helping with everything from love potions to alleviating bodily discomfort. Its popularity declined over time, but it has recently experienced a resurgence as part of the growing interest in traditional, natural remedies and forgotten herbs. Today, lovage is used in regional Italian cooking and is valued for its distinct flavor and versatility.

Health Benefits of Lovage

1. Digestive Health Lovage has long been used as a digestive aid, promoting better digestion and alleviating common gastrointestinal issues like indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps. It is thought to stimulate the secretion of gastric juices and improve the breakdown of food. The herb’s carminative properties help relieve gas and bloating by promoting the expulsion of excess air from the digestive tract. Lovage is also beneficial for improving appetite and reducing discomfort after meals.

2. Diuretic Properties One of the key medicinal benefits of lovage is its ability to act as a natural diuretic. The herb increases the production of urine, which can help flush excess fluids and toxins from the body. This makes lovage a valuable herb for supporting kidney function, managing water retention, and improving overall urinary health. Lovage is often used in herbal medicine to treat conditions such as edema and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects Lovage contains several compounds with potent anti-inflammatory properties, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. These compounds help reduce inflammation in the body, making lovage useful for treating conditions like arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory disorders. Regular consumption of lovage can help alleviate pain, swelling, and discomfort caused by chronic inflammation.

4. Supports Respiratory Health Lovage has traditionally been used to treat respiratory issues, including coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. The herb acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen mucus and phlegm in the airways, making it easier to expel. It also has mild antispasmodic properties that can help reduce coughing and soothe irritated respiratory passages. Lovage’s antimicrobial properties can also help fight off infections that contribute to respiratory distress.

5. Antioxidant Properties Lovage is rich in antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body and reduce oxidative stress. Free radicals can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. The antioxidants in lovage, particularly flavonoids, help protect cells from this damage and promote overall health. The herb’s antioxidants also contribute to its anti-aging effects, keeping the skin and internal organs in better condition as we age.

6. Supports Heart Health The diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties of lovage contribute to its ability to support heart health. By reducing fluid retention and lowering blood pressure, lovage can help reduce the workload on the heart. Additionally, lovage’s ability to reduce inflammation helps prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries, lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.

7. Mood Enhancement and Stress Relief Lovage has mild sedative properties that can help calm the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation. The herb has been traditionally used to treat stress-related conditions, such as nervous tension and insomnia. By promoting relaxation and mental clarity, lovage can help alleviate stress and support emotional well-being.

8. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Effects Lovage has demonstrated antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it useful for preventing and treating infections. The herb’s essential oils contain compounds that can kill bacteria and fungi, making it effective for treating conditions like urinary tract infections, fungal skin infections, and digestive infections. Lovage is also used to help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the body, promoting overall health and immunity.

9. Hormonal Balance Lovage has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance, particularly in women. It has been shown to have mild estrogenic effects, meaning it can mimic the action of estrogen in the body. This can help alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, and may also support menstrual health by reducing cramping and promoting regularity. However, more research is needed to fully understand its hormonal effects.

10. Skin Health Lovage’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties also make it beneficial for skin health. The herb helps reduce inflammation, which can alleviate symptoms of skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Lovage’s ability to cleanse the body and support detoxification may also contribute to clearer, healthier skin by helping to eliminate toxins that contribute to skin problems. The herb’s antimicrobial properties can also help fight off acne-causing bacteria and prevent infection.

How to Use Lovage

Lovage can be used both in the kitchen and for medicinal purposes. In cooking, it is often used in Italian soups, stews, stocks, and sauces, where it imparts a flavor similar to celery, but with a slightly more peppery and herbal undertone. Lovage is also commonly used in herb blends and as a garnish for roasted meats and vegetables.

In herbal medicine, lovage can be consumed as a tea by steeping the leaves or roots in hot water for several minutes. The tea can be sipped to improve digestion, relieve bloating, and support kidney and urinary health. Lovage is also available in capsule or tincture form as a supplement, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using it medicinally, especially if you are pregnant or nursing.

Chef’s Tip:

When using fresh lovage in cooking, treat it similarly to celery. You can add it to soups, stews, and stocks early in the cooking process to infuse its flavor into the dish. Lovage also pairs well with other herbs like parsley, thyme, and rosemary, making it a great addition to herb blends and marinades. Since lovage’s flavor can be quite strong, use it sparingly to avoid overpowering your dish.

By Master Chef Gianluca Deiana Abis