Lovage is truly a wonder. It’s not just the abundant growth it showcases during the summer or its flavorful leaves, roots, and seeds; it’s also its beautifully warming and energising benefits. 
 
Interestingly, the name ‘lovage’ is thought to originate from ‘love-ache,’ although the ‘ache’ historically referred to an old term for parsley. There are even claims that rinsing your hair with a lovage infusion could serve as an alluring aphrodisiac, suggesting there might be more depth to its etymology than we realize.
 
Botanically, the genus name ‘Levisticum’ appears to be a progression from the earlier ‘Ligusticum,’ a nod to its historical popularity in the Liguria region of Northern Italy. Lovage possesses a striking flavor that combines strong notes of celery and parsley, making it a versatile ingredient; it adds richness to soups, a dash of spice to salads, and is excellent in fermented pickles.