Lovage belongs to the celery family (Apiaceae) and is closely related to celery, parsley and dill. Its Latin name, Levisticum officinale, indicates its extensive medicinal use. In Poland, lovage is also known by regional names such as lubiśnik lekarski, korzeń, łakotne ziele and mleczeń. In ancient folk beliefs, it was thought to strengthen love and attract partners. The name “lubczyk”, originally written as lubszczek or lubszczyk, is only indirectly related to the verb “lubić” (“to like”). In fact, it derives from the medieval Latin term ligusticum, meaning a plant from Liguria, which was later transformed into libisticum or lubisticum. Forms distorted through associations with similar-sounding terms relating to love entered Polish from German. Similar processes took place in the Polish language, which is why lubczyk came to be understood as a “love plant”. The English name lovage also refers to folk transformations of the Latin original (through French) in the spirit of romantic associations.
Lovage originates from Southwestern Asia and probably originally grew in the area encompassing the territories of present-day Iran and Afghanistan. In the Middle Ages, it became extremely popular in Europe. It was cultivated in monastery herb gardens and used by monks for medicinal and culinary purposes. Today, it is widespread throughout the world.
Lovage is valued for its numerous health-promoting properties. It is rich in essential oils, coumarins, flavonoids and organic acids, which gives it beneficial effects on the entire body. It has a diuretic effect, thereby supporting kidney function, preventing water retention in the body and helping to remove toxins. In addition, it has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in combating urinary tract infections and other conditions of bacterial origin.
Thanks to the presence of substances that support digestion, lovage stimulates the secretion of digestive juices, which facilitates the absorption of food and prevents digestive problems such as bloating and indigestion. It also has an antispasmodic effect, which may provide relief in cases of menstrual pain and muscle tension. In addition, lovage, when used as an infusion, may support the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections because it facilitates expectoration and soothes coughs. For centuries, it has been regarded as a natural aphrodisiac that may support libido and contribute to an improvement in overall physical condition.
In the kitchen, lovage is an indispensable addition to many dishes. Its intense, slightly spicy flavor, reminiscent of a combination of celery and Maggi seasoning, gives dishes depth and a unique aroma. Traditionally, it is added to soups, especially broths and bouillons, which gain a more pronounced flavor thanks to it. It also pairs perfectly with sauces and marinades, enhancing the flavor of meat and fish. Fresh lovage leaves can be an excellent addition to raw vegetable salads and other salads, giving them a refreshing and slightly spicy taste. In some countries, it is also added to bread, giving baked goods a distinctive aroma.
In natural medicine, lovage has been used for centuries as a medicinal plant with a broad range of effects. Infusions and extracts from its root are primarily used to treat urinary system conditions because they help eliminate bacteria and prevent inflammation. Regular consumption of lovage infusions may support the digestive system by reducing bloating, colic and indigestion. Lovage is also used to treat colds and infections. Its warming and expectorant properties facilitate the removal of lingering mucus and accelerate recovery. Used as a natural relaxing remedy, it may also soothe nervous tension and stress, helping to improve well-being.
Lovage is also a valued ingredient in natural cosmetics. Extracts from this plant are often used in skincare products, especially bath liquids, which promote relaxation and improve the condition of the skin, giving it a healthy appearance. Essential oils obtained from lovage are used in aromatherapy because their intense scent has a relaxing effect and may improve mood. This plant is also sometimes used in hair care products, such as shampoos and conditioners, which strengthen the hair structure and improve the condition of the scalp, preventing excessive oiliness and hair loss.
Lovage is a perennial plant that is easy to grow but requires suitable conditions for proper development. It grows best in fertile, well-drained soil with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH. The soil should be rich in humus and well-watered, but not waterlogged. The plant prefers sunny or partially shaded positions. In full sun, its leaves develop more abundantly, which promotes higher yields. Lovage can be propagated from seeds or by dividing mature plants. Sowing should take place in early spring, preferably in March or April. The plants germinate after 2-3 weeks. Lovage requires regular watering, especially during periods of drought. The soil should not be allowed to dry out, but excess moisture should also be avoided. It is also worth removing weeds regularly and using natural organic fertilizers, such as compost.
Lovage leaves can be harvested from spring to autumn. It is best to cut them regularly to stimulate the plant’s growth. The root is harvested in autumn after 2-3 years of cultivation. It can be dried and used for medicinal purposes. The seeds ripen at the end of summer and can be used as a spice.
Lovage is an extremely versatile plant with many uses. Its medicinal properties, distinctive aroma and flavor, and ease of cultivation make it worth having in your garden or on your kitchen windowsill. Lovage’s exceptional properties make it one of the most valuable herbs in cooking and natural medicine. Whether we use it as a spice, medicine or cosmetic ingredient, lovage certainly deserves a place in our home and garden.