Lovage, Levisticum officinale W.D.J. Koch., a perennial herb native to the mountainous regions of northern Europe and naturalized in the eastern United States, has been grown over the centuries for its aromatic fragrance, its fine ornamental qualities, and to a lesser extent, its medicinal values. All parts of the plant., including the roots, are strongly aromatic and contain extractable essential oils. Angelica levisticum Baillon. Lovage thrives in deep, moist, rich soils and can grow in full sun or lightly shaded areas. Centers of lovage cultivation are located principally in central Europe, where the plants are collected and the essential oils extracted by steam distillation.
Subsequent harvests take place every third year.
The variations in aroma and fragrance among the different parts of the plant allow each portion of the plant to be utilized somewhat differently. The volatile oil extracted from the roots is highly valued for use in perfumery, soaps, and creams, and it has been used for flavoring tobacco products. The seeds and seed oil are used for flavoring agents in confectionery and liqueurs. The stems are used for candied products, and leaves are added to salads, soups, and stews because of their pungent, celery-like flavor. Current medicinal applications include use as a diuretic and for regulation of menses.