Lovage is a perennial aromatic plant from the carrot family (Apiaceae, traditionally Umbelliferae). The correct accepted botanical name is Levisticum officinale W.D.J.Koch; Levisticum officinale L. is not the current author citation.
The plant develops a strong rhizome, a tall hollow stem and large dark green, deeply divided leaves with a characteristic celery-like aroma. The inflorescences are compound umbels with small yellow-green flowers, while the fruits are oval, yellow-brown and aromatic. The root, leaves, seeds and essential oil are valuable raw materials for the food, herbal, beverage and pharmaceutical industries.
Basic Information
- Latin name: Levisticum officinale W.D.J.Koch
- Parts used: leaves (Folium Levistici), root (Radix Levistici / Levistici radix), seeds (Semen Levistici)
- Origin: Bulgaria
- Raw material type: cultivated
- Leaf harvest period: April – August
- Root harvest period: November – March
Raw Material Characteristics
The roots are harvested during dormancy, when the aromatic profile and active compound content are well developed. After harvesting, the raw material is cleaned, cut if required and dried carefully to preserve its aroma and overall quality.
Chemical Composition
Lovage contains mainly essential oil, phthalides, ligustilide, butylphthalides, monoterpenes, coumarins, phenolic acids, tannins and mineral salts.
Suitable for the Production of
- dry and liquid botanical extracts
- herbal teas and blends
- digestive comfort products
- diuretic botanical formulations
- seasoning blends
- functional foods
- aromatic beverage applications
- essential oils
- herbal powders
Medicinal Properties and Effects on the Body
Lovage has the following properties:
- diuretic
- spasmolytic
- carminative
- anti-inflammatory
- antimicrobial
- expectorant
- supportive effect on digestive comfort
EMA covers Levistici radix as a traditional herbal substance used to increase urine volume for flushing the urinary tract in minor urinary complaints.
Forms Available
- lovage root (Radix Levistici / Levistici radix) – whole dried, crushed, cut to custom size, or powdered
- lovage essential oil
Quality and Documentation
Upon request, a Certificate of Analysis (COA), technical documentation, batch traceability and additional documents may be provided.
Inquiry
Contact us for availability, bulk quantities, samples and a custom quotation based on the required raw material specifications.
Gallery
Product images
