Discovery and origin of lovage
Lovage, also known as Levisticum officinale, is an ancient medicinal plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. The plant originally comes from the Mediterranean region and was brought to Central Europe by the Romans. It was already valued in ancient times for its many healing properties. In the Middle Ages, it found a permanent place in monastery gardens and was praised by healers such as Hildegard von Bingen.
Dosage forms and dosage
Lovage can be taken in various forms:
- Fresh leaves: these can be used directly as a spice in salads, soups or stews.
- Dried leaves and seeds: Ideal for tea or as a spice.
- Lovage extract: Often available in the form of capsules or drops.
- Lovage root: Can be dried and processed into powder for use in teas or as a dietary supplement.
The dosage varies depending on the dosage form. For teas, about one teaspoon of dried leaves or root per cup of hot water is recommended. For extracts, you should follow the dosage instructions on the product, which often recommend 1-2 capsules or drops per day.
Lovage: healing effects and diseases
Lovage has many healing properties and can be used to treat various illnesses:
- Digestive problems: lovage aids digestion and can relieve flatulence, bloating and stomach cramps.
- Urinary tract infections: Due to its diuretic effect, lovage helps in the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections.
- Inflammation: The anti-inflammatory properties can have a soothing effect on rheumatic complaints and joint pain.
- Colds: Lovage has an expectorant effect and can help loosen mucus and facilitate coughing up in the case of colds and bronchitis.
- Menstrual cramps: Women benefit from the antispasmodic effect, which can relieve menstrual cramps.
Effect on the body
The healing effect of lovage is based on its diverse ingredients, which include essential oils, coumarins, phenolic acids and flavonoids. These substances have various positive effects on the body:
- Diuretic: Promotes the excretion of water and toxins via the kidneys.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in the body.
- Antispasmodic: Relieves cramps in the digestive and urogenital tract.
- Mucolytic: Supports mucus clearance in the respiratory tract.
Recommended intake and contraindications
Lovage should be taken as a supplement if you suffer from the above-mentioned complaints or want to achieve the positive effects mentioned. Regular use can be particularly beneficial for digestive problems and urinary tract infections.
It is not recommended to take lovage during:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: the active ingredients contained may induce labor in high doses and are not suitable for infants.
- Kidney disease: Due to its diuretic effect, caution is advised in the case of existing kidney disease.
- Allergy to umbelliferous plants: People who are allergic to plants such as celery, carrots or parsley may also be allergic to lovage.
Food supplements and medicinal plants
To support the healing effect of lovage, various dietary supplements and medicinal plants can also be taken:
- Cranberry: Also helps with urinary tract infections and can be taken together with lovage.
- Ginger: Promotes digestion and has an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Parsley: Has similar diuretic properties and can help with urinary tract infections.
- Turmeric: Has a strong anti-inflammatory effect and can also help with rheumatic complaints.
Lovage in food
Lovage can be used in many foods to take advantage of its healing properties. It is mainly used as a spice in the kitchen:
- Soups and stews: it adds an intense flavor and aids digestion.
- Salads: The fresh leaves can be chopped and sprinkled over salads.
- Sauces: Dried leaves or seeds can flavor sauces.
Lovage: side effects and overdose
Lovage is usually well tolerated in normal quantities, but side effects can occur with an overdose. Possible side effects include:
- Gastrointestinal complaints: Diarrhea and stomach cramps may occur with an overdose.
- Skin rash: Allergic reactions may occur in some people.
- Kidney irritation: Due to the diuretic effect, the kidneys can become irritated, especially at high doses.
An overdose can lead to serious health problems such as severe stomach cramps, vomiting and an imbalance of electrolytes. Therefore, the recommended dose should not be exceeded.
Use in naturopathy
Lovage is often used as a natural remedy in naturopathy. It is used in:
- Tea blends: To relieve digestive complaints and urinary tract infections.
- Capsules and tablets: For targeted ingestion for specific complaints.
- Tinctures: Alcoholic extracts of the plant for internal or external use.
Conclusion
In summary, lovage is a versatile medicinal plant that is valued in both traditional medicine and modern naturopathy. With its many positive effects on the body, it can be helpful for various ailments when used in the appropriate dosage and taking into account possible contraindications.
