Potential health benefits of the plant Levisticum officinale (lovage) in relation to its polyphenolic content

Abstract The purpose of the present study was to gather information about the effects of the herb Levisticum officinale (lovage) and of its phenolic ingredients and to elucidate the potential health benefits of the plant in relation to its polyphenolic content. The study was performed by searching different internet-based databases (Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, etc.). Levisticum officinale (lovage) is a perennial aromatic plant from the Apiaceae family. This herb is rich in essential oil and is widely used as a seasoning for culinary purposes. Lovage contains up to 860 mg GAE/100 g fresh weight phenolic substances as well. Polyphenols in L. officinale belong to the classes of flavonoids (quercetin, rutin, kaempferol and anthocyanins) and phenolic acids (chlorogenic, neochlorogenic, ferulic, gallic, ellagic). They contribute to potent antioxidant properties of the plant. Anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotective, antidiabetic, antibacterial, hepatoprotective and other properties of L. officinale extracts have also been demonstrated. Phenolic substances abundant in lovage have shown to be protective in models of osteoporosis and different cardiovascular diseases as well. The information confirms our assumption that Levisticum officinale is not only an useful and pleasant-tasting Mediterranean-cuisine seasoning but also a herb that can contribute to the healthy lifestyle.