What is the historical use of lovage herb?
Lovage (Levisticum Officinale) is a perennial plant that grows up to seven feet tall and bears yellow flowers. Lovage is thought to be an emetic (causes vomiting), diuretic (increases discharge of urine), stimulant, emmenagogue (increases menstrual flow), and carminative (causes expulsion of gas from stomach and intestines). This herb has been used for hundreds of years to possibly aid digestion, and a cordial was made to ease sore throats. The leaves were put in shoes to deodorise them and have a soothing effect on tired and aching feet. The leaves were eaten in salads and as a substitute to spinach, although too much can create nauseous effects. The root is used in herbal supplements to potentially help relieve bloating, digestion problems and flatulence. Lovage should not be used by pregnant women and people with kidney disease as it dramatically decreases water retention. Ask your doctor before taking this or any strong herbs.
