Lovage
Lovage, Liebstöckel, Livèche, Levístico, Levisticum officinale, -
Lovage (Levisticum officinale) is native to Europe and Western Asia and has been cultivated since the Middle Ages. Its long, glossy leaves and hollow stems are commonly used in soups, stews, and herbal remedies. In folk medicine, lovage leaves and stems are known for supporting digestion, acting as mild diuretics, and relieving bloating. In Ayurveda, the leaves and stems are considered warming, pungent, and bitter, useful for balancing Kapha and Vata, and generally neutral for Pitta.
While the leaves and stems are most commonly used in European cuisine and culinary applications, the seeds of lovage have a stronger digestive effect and are treated separately in medicinal use.
Warming and stimulating, helps relieve gas, bloating, and mild digestive sluggishness; supports circulation and fluid balance.
Neutral overall; mild warming effect is usually safe, but avoid excess in high Pitta conditions or kidney inflammation.
Reduces Kapha by promoting elimination and diuresis; supports metabolic function and helps clear excess fluids.
Rasa
bitter (tikta), pungent (katu)
Guna
dry (ruksa), light (laghu)
Virya
heating (ushna)
Vipaka
pungent (katu)
Dhatu
Rasa, Rakta, Meda
Digestive discomfort, bloating, water retention, mild inflammation
Avoid in cases of high Pitta or kidney inflammation; may cause photosensitivity in sensitive individuals.
Leaves and stems can be used fresh or dried in soups, stews, teas, and herbal preparations. Seeds are more potent and used separately as a spice or medicinal infusion.
