Lovage root is a diuretic (diuretic), which is used for flushing therapy. Accordingly, important areas of application for lovage are inflammatory processes and infections of the draining urinary tract, including, for example, cystitis and inflammation of the ureter or urethra.
Furthermore, the plant is used to prevent so-called kidney gravel, i.e. accumulations of small kidney stones. Traditionally, lovage is generally suitable “to support the excretory function of the kidneys”.
Lovage in folk medicine
Lovage was used 1,000 years ago to aid digestion, relieve flatulence and as a diuretic. Even today it is used in folk medicine as a diuretic, menstrual stimulant, expectorant for inflammation of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and stomachic for heartburn, bloating and indigestion.
Lovage is also used folk medicine for swelling in the feet due to water retention in the tissues (edema); however, this is a contraindication according to the Commission E monograph.
Use as food
Lovage, in addition to its medicinal uses, is also used as a spice and in the spirits industry as an ingredient in herbal liqueurs and bitter brandies.
Application in homeopathy
In homeopathy, one uses the dried, underground parts in the anthroposophical therapy direction.
Ingredients of lovage
Lovage root contains 0.4-1.7% essential oil, and the main ingredients with a share of 50-70% are the so-called alkyl phthalides. An important representative of this group, which is mainly responsible for the characteristic odor, is ligustilide.
Furthermore, coumarin derivatives, furanocoumarins, phenolic carboxylic acids and various volatile acids are contained in the root.
Lovage: for what indication?
Indications for the use of lovage are:
- Inflammation of the urinary tract.
- Urinary tract inflammation
- Cystitis
- Kidney gravel
