Levisticum Officinale Koch (Lovage)

Levisticum Officinale Koch (Lovage)

Product Name: Любисток лекарственный, Levisticum officinale, Liebstöckel, Levístico, Livèche, كرفس الجبل, ผักชีฝรั่งภูเขา, Lovistok, Ловисток, Levzəştok, Левистик, Meilės žolė, Mīlestības sakne, Любисток, Levistik, לֵוִיסְטִיקוּם אוֹפִיצִינַלֵה

Synonyms: Любисток, горный сельдерей, аптечный любисток, лу́бисток (рус.); Lovage, garden lovage (англ.); Maggikraut, Liebstöckel, Liebstöckel (нем.); Apio de monte, levístico (исп.); Livèche officinale, ache des montagnes (фр.); كرفس الجبل، حَبّ الكرفس، لوفيستيك (араб.); ผักชีฝรั่งภูเขา, ผักชีล้อม (тай.)

Parts Used: leaves, stems, rhizome, seeds.

Main Indications for Use of Levisticum officinale: Flatulence, dyspepsia, chronic gastritis with reduced acidity, functional diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pyelonephritis, cystitis, urolithiasis, urinary retention, arterial hypertension, edematous syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, chronic bronchitis, bronchiectasis, spastic cough, dysmenorrhea, algodysmenorrhea, hypoestrogenia, climacteric syndrome.

Use of Levisticum officinale in mixtures and complexes: Cholelithiasis, cholecystitis, hypomotor biliary dyskinesia, nephrotic syndrome, exacerbation of rheumatism, bronchial asthma, autoimmune thyroiditis, chronic prostatitis, endometriosis, fibrocystic mastopathy, acne, seborrheic dermatitis.

Pharmacological Properties of Levisticum officinale: spasmolytic, diuretic, carminative, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, sedative, phytoestrogenic, antioxidant, secretolytic, diaphoretic, vasodilating, mild hypotensive, antirheumatic, expectorant, antiseptic, venotonic.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Levisticum officinale

Powder — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Powder): Flatulence, dyspepsia, chronic gastritis with reduced acidity, functional diarrhea, chronic pyelonephritis, cystitis, arterial hypertension, edematous syndrome, gout, algodysmenorrhea, hypoestrogenia.

Standard Dosage (Powder): 1 gram of powder 3 times a day 20 minutes before meals, with warm water.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 2 grams of powder 3 times a day for chronic pyelonephritis, cystitis, pronounced algodysmenorrheal syndrome, and gout.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): 3 grams of powder 3 times a day, no more than 10 days consecutively, for acute relapses of gout, pronounced edematous syndrome, severe hypoestrogenia.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): 0.5 grams of powder once a day for 30 days. Recommended for premenopausal women, patients with chronic cystitis, flatulence, and stage I arterial hypertension.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): For children from 12 years of age and body weight from 40 kg — 0.3–0.5 grams once a day. Use in children under 12 years of age is not recommended.

Contraindications (Powder): Acute glomerulonephritis, pregnancy, uterine bleeding. Data on contraindications during lactation and childhood under 12 years of age have not been scientifically registered.

Side Effects (Powder): With overdose, headaches, nausea, kidney irritation, and increased menstrual bleeding are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight up to 60 kg — reduce the dose by 25%. For body weight above 90 kg — an increase of the daily dose by 25% is permissible.

Preparation Method (Powder): Dry rhizomes are washed, cut into pieces up to 2 centimeters long, dried at a temperature of 40–45 °C until brittle. Then they are ground into a powder with a fraction of no more than 0.2 mm. For 100 grams of powder, 120 grams of raw root are required.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store in an airtight glass container in a dry, dark place at a temperature not exceeding 25 °C. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight and EMI. Shelf life — 24 months. After opening — use within 60 days.

Dry Extract — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Dry Extract): Cystitis, chronic pyelonephritis, arterial hypertension, irritable bowel syndrome, hypoestrogenia, rheumatoid arthritis.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): 250 milligrams of dry extract 2 times a day 30 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 500 milligrams 2–3 times a day for relapses of cystitis, pronounced arthritis, pronounced climacteric syndrome.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): Up to 1000 milligrams 2 times a day, no more than 7 days consecutively, for acute inflammatory conditions of the urinary system or exacerbations of rheumatic diseases.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 milligrams once a day for 30 days; repeat the course not earlier than after 2 months. Recommended for premenopausal women, patients with mild arterial hypertension and chronic pyelonephritis in remission.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): Not recommended for children under 14 years of age. From 14 years of age — 100 milligrams once a day with body weight from 45 kg.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Pregnancy, acute nephritis, pronounced renal dysfunction. Safety during lactation and in children under 14 years of age has not been scientifically confirmed.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): With overdose, dry mouth, headache, frequent urination, feeling of heat are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For body weight less than 50 kg — reduce the dose by 20%. For body weight above 80 kg — an increase of the dose up to 30% is permissible.

Preparation Method (Dry Extract): 100 grams of ground root are poured with 1 liter of 40% ethanol, infused at a temperature of 35 °C for 48 hours. The extract is evaporated in a water bath until a thick mass is obtained and dried in a dehydrator at a temperature not exceeding 50 °C until a dry extract is obtained. Yield — about 18 grams.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place at a temperature not exceeding 20 °C. Avoid exposure to light and moisture. Shelf life — up to 2 years. After opening — use within 90 days.

Alcohol Tincture — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Alcohol Tincture): Algomenorrhea, flatulence, dyspepsia, bronchiectasis.

Standard Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): 25 drops (approximately 1 ml) 3 times a day, diluted in 50 ml of water, 20 minutes before meals.

Enhanced Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): 40 drops 3 times a day for exacerbation of cystitis, gout, intense menstrual pain, and edema.

Maximum Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): 60 drops 3 times a day, no more than 5 days, for severe acute inflammatory conditions of the urinary tract.

Preventive Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): 15 drops once a day for 30 days. Recommended for patients with chronic cystitis, stage I hypertension, women with premenstrual syndrome and flatulence.

Pediatric Dosage (Alcohol Tincture): Use is not recommended for children under 16 years of age due to ethanol content.

Contraindications (Alcohol Tincture): Alcoholism, pregnancy, childhood under 16 years of age, epilepsy, pronounced renal failure. Safety during lactation has not been established.

Side Effects (Alcohol Tincture): With overdose, tachycardia, dizziness, irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa are possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients with body weight up to 55 kg, a reduction of the dose by 20% is recommended. For patients with body weight above 90 kg — an increase of the dose by 25% is permissible.

Preparation Method (Alcohol Tincture): To prepare 100 ml of tincture: pour 25 g of ground dry root with 100 ml of 70% ethanol. Infuse in glassware at room temperature for 10 days, shaking periodically. Strain through filter paper, pour into a dark glass bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Alcohol Tincture): Store in a dark, cool place at a temperature from +8 to +15 °C. Do not allow heating and direct light. Shelf life — up to 3 years. After opening — use within 6 months.

Oil Infusion — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Oil Infusion): Chronic cystitis, hypoestrogenia, dry skin and mucous membranes, dysmenorrhea, dermatitis, seborrhea, gout.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): 5 ml (1 teaspoon) orally once a day after meals. Topically — apply a thin layer to problem skin areas 1–2 times a day.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): Orally — up to 10 ml once a day for pronounced hypoestrogenia and climacteric syndrome. Topically — 2–3 times a day for inflammatory skin diseases.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Orally — no more than 15 ml per day. Topically — without restrictions, in the absence of irritation.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): 3 ml orally every other day for 30 days. Topically — once a day on dry skin areas. Recommended for premenopausal women, patients with seborrhea and chronic skin irritations.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): For topical use in children over 6 years of age — no more than 2 ml per day on small skin areas. Internal use is not recommended until 14 years of age.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Acute weeping dermatitis, individual intolerance, pregnancy. Safety during lactation and in children under 6 years of age has not been confirmed.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): With oral overdose, digestive upset is possible; with topical application — local irritation and hyperemia.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients with body weight less than 50 kg — reduce the dose by 20%. For persons with body weight above 85 kg — an increase up to 10 ml is permissible.

Preparation Method (Oil Infusion): 100 grams of ground dry root are poured with 300 ml of unrefined coconut oil. Infuse in a water bath at a temperature of 45 °C for 4 hours. Then infuse at room temperature for another 7 days, shaking periodically. Strain, store in dark glassware.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store in a dark, cool environment (from +5 to +15 °C), avoid direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Shelf life — up to 12 months. After opening — use within 60 days.

Vaginal Suppository — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Vaginal Suppository): Atrophic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, dysmenorrhea, hypoestrogenia, climacteric syndrome, recurrent vaginal infections, vulvodynia.

Standard Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): One suppository (500 mg) at night, course of 10 days. Repeat if necessary after 30 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): One suppository 2 times a day (morning and evening) for 7 days for acute bacterial vaginosis and pronounced vaginal dryness.

Maximum Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): No more than 3 suppositories per day for 5 days for recurrent vaginal infections, in the absence of mucosal irritation.

Preventive Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): 1 suppository every other day for 14 days. Recommended for premenopausal women, with recurrent bacterial vaginosis and vaginal dryness.

Pediatric Dosage (Vaginal Suppository): Use in girls under 16 years of age is not recommended. From 16 years of age — as prescribed by a physician, no more than 1 suppository per day.

Contraindications (Vaginal Suppository): Pregnancy, active bleeding, acute colpitis of unclear etiology. Safety during lactation and in adolescents under 16 years of age has not been scientifically confirmed.

Side Effects (Vaginal Suppository): Rarely — a burning sensation, local irritation, allergic reactions in case of individual intolerance to components.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Correction is not required when using this form. Use is limited by local activity.

Preparation Method (Vaginal Suppository): For 100 g of the preparation: 15 g of dry root extract, 3 g of cocoa butter, 2 g of coconut oil, 80 g of shea butter base. Melt the components at a temperature of 35–38 °C, mix, pour into molds of 2 g. Cool until completely solidified.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Vaginal Suppository): Store in a refrigerator at a temperature from +2 to +8 °C. Shelf life — up to 6 months. After opening the blister, use within 48 hours.

Rectal Suppository — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Rectal Suppository): Chronic prostatitis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis, hemorrhoids, irritable bowel syndrome, algodysmenorrhea, constipation against the background of spasm.

Standard Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository (500 mg) rectally at night for 10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository 2 times a day for exacerbation of hemorrhoids, prostatitis, or pain syndrome in the small pelvis.

Maximum Dosage (Rectal Suppository): Up to 3 suppositories per day, short-term (no more than 5 days), for pronounced inflammatory syndrome and pain.

Preventive Dosage (Rectal Suppository): 1 suppository once every 3 days for a month. Prevention of exacerbations of prostatitis, gout, algodysmenorrhea.

Pediatric Dosage (Rectal Suppository): From 12 years of age — half a suppository (250 mg) once a day. Under 12 years of age, use is not recommended.

Contraindications (Rectal Suppository): Acute inflammatory diseases of the rectum, anal fissures, hypersensitivity to components. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been established.

Side Effects (Rectal Suppository): Local irritation, burning, rare allergic reactions. With overdose — diarrhea.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients up to 50 kg — half dose is recommended. Above 85 kg — the standard dose is permissible up to 2 times a day.

Preparation Method (Rectal Suppository): Per 100 g of base: 10 g of dry root powder, 90 g of base (cocoa butter + coconut oil in a 3:1 ratio). Melt the mixture at a temperature of 35 °C, mix thoroughly, pour into molds of 2 g. Cool in a refrigerator.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Rectal Suppository): Store in a refrigerator at a temperature of +2…+8 °C. Protect from light. After opening, use within 72 hours. Shelf life in the package — 6 months.

Nasal Drops — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Nasal Drops): Vasomotor rhinitis, atrophic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, dryness of the nasal mucosa.

Standard Dosage (Nasal Drops): 2 drops in each nasal passage 3 times a day for 7–10 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Nasal Drops): 3 drops 4 times a day for exacerbations of chronic sinusitis and pronounced nasal congestion.

Maximum Dosage (Nasal Drops): Up to 5 drops 4 times a day, short-term (no more than 3 days) for pronounced rhinitis, including allergic.

Preventive Dosage (Nasal Drops): 1–2 drops once a day in the evening for 14 days during the exacerbation season. Recommended for patients with chronic allergic rhinitis, dryness of the nasal mucosa.

Pediatric Dosage (Nasal Drops): For children from 6 years of age — 1 drop 2 times a day. Under 6 years of age, use is not recommended.

Contraindications (Nasal Drops): Purulent rhinitis, perforation of the nasal septum, active nosebleeds. Safety in pregnant and lactating women has not been established.

Side Effects (Nasal Drops): Short-term tingling, increased mucus secretion, in rare cases — allergic rash around the nose.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Correction is not required, since the form is used locally. With increased mucosal sensitivity — reduce the dose to 1 drop.

Preparation Method (Nasal Drops): Heat 100 ml of distilled water to 80 °C, add 2 g of dry root powder and 3 g of flower honey, infuse for 1 hour under a lid, strain through a fine filter. After cooling, add 3 ml of coconut oil, emulsify using a shaker. Pour into a sterile dropper bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Nasal Drops): Store in a refrigerator at a temperature of +2…+8 °C. Shelf life — up to 14 days after preparation. After opening — use within 5 days.

Ear Drops — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Ear Drops): External otitis, otomycosis, eczema of the external auditory canal, earwax plug, itching in the ears.

Standard Dosage (Ear Drops): 2 drops in the external auditory canal 2 times a day for 7 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ear Drops): 3–4 drops 3 times a day for pronounced itching and inflammation in the auditory canal.

Maximum Dosage (Ear Drops): 5 drops 3 times a day, no more than 5 days for external otitis with pronounced eczema.

Preventive Dosage (Ear Drops): 1 drop in the ear once every 3 days for 2 weeks. Recommended for patients with chronic itching in the ears, excessive earwax production, allergic eczema.

Pediatric Dosage (Ear Drops): For children from 5 years of age — 1 drop 2 times a day. Under 5 years of age — use in consultation with a physician.

Contraindications (Ear Drops): Perforation of the tympanic membrane, acute purulent otitis, presence of a foreign body. Data on safety during pregnancy and lactation are absent.

Side Effects (Ear Drops): Local irritation, increased itching, feeling of fullness. Allergic reaction in the form of redness of the auditory canal — extremely rare.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Correction is not required. With pronounced dryness of the epithelium — the dose can be reduced to 1 drop.

Preparation Method (Ear Drops): Pour 10 g of dry ground root with 50 ml of unrefined coconut oil, infuse in a water bath at 40 °C for 3 hours. Cool, filter. Add 1 drop of tea tree oil to enhance the antiseptic effect. Pour into a sterile dropper bottle.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ear Drops): Store in a tightly closed bottle at a temperature from +5 to +10 °C, in a light-protected place. Shelf life — up to 30 days. After opening, use within 7 days.

Essential Oil — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Essential Oil): Flatulence, dyspepsia, spastic abdominal pain, algodysmenorrhea, stress tension, insomnia, seborrhea, acne, gout.

Standard Dosage (Essential Oil): For topical use — 1 drop per 5 ml of base oil, apply to the abdomen, temples, lower back, or joints 1–2 times a day. For inhalations — 1–2 drops per 200 ml of hot water.

Enhanced Dosage (Essential Oil): Topically — 2 drops per 5 ml of carrier oil, for pronounced spastic pain and joint inflammations. Inhalations — up to 3 drops per session.

Maximum Dosage (Essential Oil): Topically — no more than 3 drops per 5 ml of carrier oil, no more than 3 times a day. By inhalation — no more than 5 drops per day, no more than 7 days consecutively.

Preventive Dosage (Essential Oil): 1 drop on an aroma pendant or aroma lamp, daily in the evening for 10–15 minutes. Used for premenstrual syndrome, anxiety, chronic fatigue, hypotension.

Pediatric Dosage (Essential Oil): From 7 years of age — no more than 1 drop per 10 ml of carrier oil for local rubbing. Inhalations and aroma lamps — 1 drop per room no more than once a day.

Contraindications (Essential Oil): Pregnancy, epilepsy, individual intolerance. Data on use during lactation and in children under 7 years of age are absent.

Side Effects (Essential Oil): With overdose — headache, skin irritation, dizziness, tachycardia.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: For patients with body weight less than 45 kg — the oil concentration is halved. With body weight above 85 kg, the standard dosage without increase is permissible.

Preparation Method (Essential Oil): 100 g of fresh root are ground and subjected to steam distillation at a temperature of 98 °C for 3 hours. The resulting condensate is separated, the essential oil is separated from the hydrolate. Yield — about 0.3–0.5 ml from 100 g of raw material.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Essential Oil): Store in a hermetically closed dark glass vial, in a cool place (from +5 to +15 °C), away from light and heat sources. Shelf life — up to 24 months. After opening — use within 6 months.

Ointment — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Ointment): Arthralgia, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, myalgia, eczema, skin irritation, psoriasis, herpes zoster, contact dermatitis.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Apply a thin layer 2 times a day to affected skin or joint areas. Course — 7–14 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Apply 3 times a day for acute inflammatory pain, psoriatic plaques, pronounced itching.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Apply up to 4 times a day for 5 days. Application area — no more than 20% of the body surface.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Once a day before bedtime on problem skin and joint areas. Recommended for chronic dermatitis, gout in remission, seasonal exacerbations of rheumatism.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): From 6 years of age — once a day on small skin areas (no more than 5×5 cm). Under 6 years of age — only as prescribed by a physician.

Contraindications (Ointment): Open wounds, purulent skin lesions, allergy to components. There are no data on use during pregnancy and lactation.

Side Effects (Ointment): Contact urticaria, skin peeling, increased itching, rarely — dermatitis.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Correction is not required. With body weight below 50 kg — reduce the frequency of use to once a day.

Preparation Method (Ointment): 100 g of ointment: 10 g of dry root powder, 5 ml of lovage essential oil, 10 g of beeswax, 75 g of coconut oil. Melt the components in a water bath, stir until homogeneous, cool, package into glass jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store in a tightly closed dark glass jar at a temperature of +5…+15 °C. Avoid overheating. Shelf life — 6 months. After opening — use within 30 days.

Cream — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Cream): Atopic dermatitis, dry skin, seborrheic dermatitis, contact eczema, acne, post-acne, psoriasis, irritation after depilation.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Apply a thin layer to cleansed skin 2 times a day, morning and evening.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Apply 3–4 times a day to affected areas for pronounced dryness, peeling, inflammation, or itching.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Apply up to 5 times a day, short-term (no more than 3 days), for acute symptoms of skin inflammation and irritation. Treatment area no more than 25% of the skin surface.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Once a day, in courses of 14 days, for a tendency to seasonal skin rashes, chronic dermatitis, and dry skin.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): From 3 years of age — once a day on small areas (no more than 3×3 cm). Use in children under 3 years of age is not recommended.

Contraindications (Cream): Acute purulent skin lesions, weeping dermatoses, individual intolerance. Data on use during pregnancy are limited; the decision is made individually.

Side Effects (Cream): Contact hyperemia, rash, temporary increase in skin dryness. With prolonged use — the risk of developing contact dermatitis.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required. One should focus on the area of the lesion and the age of the patient.

Preparation Method (Cream): For 100 g of cream: 5 g of dry extract, 20 g of coconut oil, 5 g of jojoba oil, 60 g of an organic cream-forming base (for example, from shea butter and vegetable glycerin), 1 g of beeswax, 5 g of rose hydrolate. Emulsify at 35–40 °C, stir until homogeneous. Package into sterile jars.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store at a temperature of +4…+10 °C, in a dark place. Do not freeze. Shelf life — up to 3 months. After opening — use within 21 days.

Serum — Levisticum officinale

Indications (Serum): Hyperpigmentation, dull complexion, enlarged pores, inflammatory elements, oily and combination skin, signs of premature aging.

Standard Dosage (Serum): 1–2 drops on cleansed face once a day in the evening. Do not rinse off.

Enhanced Dosage (Serum): 3–4 drops 2 times a day for pronounced oiliness, acne, acne rash, and post-inflammatory spots.

Maximum Dosage (Serum): Up to 5 drops 2 times a day, in a course of no more than 7 days for pronounced rashes and enlarged pores.

Preventive Dosage (Serum): 1 drop in the evening every other day for 30 days. Recommended for the first signs of skin aging, loss of tone, and to maintain skin immunity.

Pediatric Dosage (Serum): From 12 years of age — 1 drop on the T-zone, no more than once a day. Under 12 years of age, not recommended.

Contraindications (Serum): Couperose, individual skin sensitivity, open wounds. During pregnancy and lactation, use with caution.

Side Effects (Serum): Burning, redness, peeling. In rare cases — exacerbation of acne rash in the first days.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight: Not required. Individualized by skin type.

Preparation Method (Serum): For 100 ml: 10 ml of aqueous glycerin extract of lovage (1:5), 5 ml of rosehip oil, 1 ml of lovage essential oil, 84 ml of witch hazel hydrolate. Combine the ingredients at a temperature of 25 °C, mix in a homogenizer, pour into glass vials with a pipette.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Serum): Store at a temperature from +4 to +8 °C, in a dark cabinet. After opening, use within 21 days. Protect from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Toxicity and Biosafety — Levisticum officinale

Studies of the general toxicity of Levisticum officinale show a high biosafety profile for oral and topical use in therapeutic doses. The main active substances (phthalides, coumarins, terpenoids) have low acute toxicity.

In experiments on laboratory animals, it was established that extracts of Levisticum officinale do not cause pronounced toxic effects with short-term and long-term administration. The LD50 value (lethal dose causing the death of 50% of animals) for aqueous and alcohol extracts of lovage with oral administration to mice exceeded 5,000 mg/kg of body weight, which indicates an extremely low level of acute toxicity.

Moderate phototoxicity may be observed with excessive consumption of roots containing furanocoumarins, in combination with exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Reference: https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Pharmacodynamics — Levisticum officinale

The pharmacodynamic properties of Levisticum officinale are determined by a complex of biologically active compounds, mainly phthalides, coumarins, essential oils, terpenoids, and polyphenols. These substances provide systemic and local pharmacological effects on key physiological regulatory systems.

At the systemic level, Levisticum officinale realizes spasmolytic activity, mainly due to phthalides, including butylphthalides. These compounds have an effect on smooth muscles, reducing tone and eliminating spastic activity, which is associated with the modulation of calcium channels and inhibition of phosphodiesterase. The effect is observed mainly in the organs of the gastrointestinal tract and urinary system. A local vasodilating effect has also been established, probably due to interaction with endothelial receptors that regulate the level of nitric oxide.

The diuretic effect is associated with the presence of essential oils and furanocoumarins, which affect tubular secretion and reabsorption in the kidneys. This mechanism is realized without a pronounced effect on electrolyte balance, which allows it to be considered as a mild modulating diuretic.

Coumarin-like compounds in the plant exhibit antioxidant and weak anti-inflammatory properties, inhibiting the activity of cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, and also reducing the production of prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This action is realized both at the systemic level and locally, especially when applied externally.

Polyphenolic compounds and terpenoids demonstrate moderate antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative flora, due to disruption of the integrity of the microbial membrane and inhibition of the activity of bacterial enzymes. In combination with essential oils, an enhancement of the local antiseptic and deodorizing effect is possible with topical application.

At the level of the nervous system, Levisticum officinale exhibits a mild sedative and anxiolytic effect, which is associated with the modulation of GABA receptors and a decrease in the level of excitatory neurotransmitters. These properties are especially pronounced with inhalation or transdermal exposure to essential components.

The phytoestrogenic activity of the extract is due to the presence of coumarins and polyacetylenes capable of binding to estrogen-type receptors α and β. This determines the plant's effect on hormonal regulation, especially with respect to the female reproductive and endocrine systems.

In total, the pharmacodynamics of Levisticum officinale is characterized as multifactorial, realized through the mechanisms of smooth muscle relaxation, modulation of inflammatory mediators, enzyme detoxification pathways, local antimicrobial activity, and endocrine interaction.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://link.springer.com/arti...
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.g...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Pharmacokinetics — Levisticum officinale

The pharmacokinetic properties of Levisticum officinale depend on the composition and form of administration. The most commonly used are powder, aqueous and alcohol extracts, essential oil, as well as topical dosage forms that provide various routes of absorption and biotransformation.

With oral intake, the active components, including phthalides, coumarins, and terpenoids, are absorbed mainly in the small intestine. Coumarins quickly penetrate through the gastrointestinal mucosa and undergo primary metabolism in the liver with the participation of cytochrome P450 enzymes, including CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. This process ensures partial inactivation and preparation for further excretion. Metabolites are excreted mainly in urine in the form of glucuronides and sulfates.

Terpenoids and essential oils, as a rule, exhibit a systemic effect with inhalation, sublingual, and transdermal administration. Through mucous membranes, they are rapidly absorbed into the capillaries, bypassing the first hepatic passage. Essential components are partially excreted with exhaled air, partially metabolized in the liver and excreted with bile and urine.

With transdermal application (ointment, cream, oil infusion), the absorption of active substances is limited to the surface layers of the skin; however, some compounds (for example, coumarins) are able to penetrate into the deep layers of the dermis and exert a local anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. The bioavailability of such forms depends on the condition of the skin and surface temperature.

Suppositories provide a systemic and partially local effect due to absorption through the hemorrhoidal venous plexus and the rectal mucosa. Bypassing the portal system of the liver allows achieving a higher concentration of active substances in the blood with less load on the liver.

Topical application of essential oil and creams provides a predominantly local effect; however, with regular use, systemic accumulation of coumarins and phthalides is possible, especially with increased skin permeability or concomitant use of occlusive dressings.

Intestinal microflora can participate in the transformation of polysaccharide and phenolic components, enhancing their biological activity. It is known that some flavonoids and coumarins undergo bacterial degradation with the formation of metabolites that have a systemic effect.

Excretion is carried out by the kidneys and through bile, depending on the form of administration and the degree of metabolic transformation. A small amount of essential components can also be released with sweat and exhaled air, especially when using the inhalation form.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.g...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...
https://www.sciencedirect.com/...

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Levisticum officinale

The main pharmacologically active substances of Levisticum officinale are phthalides (in particular, butylphthalide), coumarins, terpenes, phenolic compounds, and essential oils. The mechanisms of their action are realized through the modulation of the activity of key enzyme and receptor systems, as well as cellular signals responsible for inflammation, smooth muscle tone, microcirculation, and barrier functions of tissues.

Phthalides exhibit a pronounced spasmolytic effect due to the inhibition of the activity of L-type voltage-dependent calcium channels and inhibition of phosphodiesterase. This leads to a decrease in the intracellular concentration of calcium ions in smooth muscle cells, which causes their relaxation. Such effects are accompanied by a decrease in prostaglandin activity and a decrease in the sensitivity of smooth muscle receptors to acetylcholine.

Coumarins in the composition of Levisticum officinale have photobiological activity and demonstrate the ability to inhibit enzymes of the cyclooxygenase family (COX-1 and COX-2), reducing the formation of pro-inflammatory mediators such as prostaglandins PGE2 and thromboxanes. In addition, they modulate the activity of the transcription factor NF-κB, which leads to a decrease in the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and a decrease in the expression of adhesion molecules on endotheliocytes.

Terpenoids and essential oils have an antimicrobial effect through the destruction of the lipid membrane of pathogenic microorganisms, increasing the permeability of the cytoplasmic membrane, and disrupting energy metabolism. Their inhibitory effect on enzymes of microbial origin, such as proteases and DNA hydrolases, has also been registered.

Phenolic compounds, especially derivatives of ferulic and caffeic acids, have antioxidant activity, binding free radicals, inhibiting lipid peroxidation, and stabilizing cell membranes. They also modulate the expression of antioxidant defense genes through the activation of the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway.

There are data on the phytoestrogenic activity of some components of Levisticum officinale, associated with reversible binding to estrogen-type receptors (ERα and ERβ), which leads to modulation of cell proliferation and restoration of epithelial structures. This activity may be additionally mediated through the MAPK and PI3K/Akt signaling cascades.

Thus, Levisticum officinale affects a wide range of targets, including enzyme systems (COX, phosphodiesterases, CYP450), inflammatory mediators (prostaglandins, cytokines), receptors (estrogen, muscarinic, GABA), and signaling pathways (NF-κB, MAPK, Nrf2). This provides a complex modulating effect on inflammatory, autonomic, microbial, and endocrine processes.

References:
ttps://www.sciencedirect.com/...
https://link.springer.com/arti...
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.g...
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Synergy — Levisticum officinale

In vitro and in vivo data indicate the pharmacological synergy of Levisticum officinale with plants containing flavonoids, saponins, and sesquiterpenes. In particular, when used together with plants rich in flavonoids (for example, Matricaria chamomilla, Melissa officinalis, Crataegus spp.), an enhancement of spasmolytic and sedative action is observed due to additive modulation of GABA receptors and a decrease in the activity of calcium channels.

A potentiating anti-inflammatory effect is described in combination of Levisticum officinale with representatives of the genus Salix (salicin glycosides), where synergism is noted in the inhibition of COX and LOX pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism. This interaction is accompanied by suppression of prostaglandin and leukotriene production, enhancement of the anti-edematous effect, and stabilization of the vascular endothelium.

When combined with saponin-containing plants (Glycyrrhiza glabra, Panax ginseng), an enhancement of diuretic and expectorant action is observed, due to increased mucus secretion, stimulation of tubular excretion, and improvement of microcirculation in the respiratory epithelium.

Inhalation or transdermal use of Levisticum officinale in combination with essential oils (Lavandula angustifolia, Citrus aurantium, Eucalyptus globulus) leads to synergy in reducing anxiety and the level of excitation of the central nervous system. The effect is realized through interaction with serotonin and GABA receptor systems and general activation of the parasympathetic link of the autonomic nervous system.

Interaction with polyphenolic compounds of adaptogenic plants, such as Rhodiola rosea and Eleutherococcus senticosus, has also been described, enhancing the antioxidant and anti-stress effect due to co-activation of the Nrf2 and HSP70 signaling cascades.

Thus, Levisticum officinale demonstrates a wide range of synergistic interactions with natural substances, enhancing its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and sedative effects at the systemic and cellular levels.

References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874103002164
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11101-005-5562-1
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16229972
https://www.tandfonline.com/do...

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Levisticum officinale

Levisticum officinale has a long history of use in traditional medical and ethnobotanical practices of Europe, Western Asia, and to a lesser extent in the Caucasus and the Middle East. It has been cultivated as a medicinal and culinary plant since antiquity, and its wild populations are described in the mountainous regions of Central and Southern Europe, including the Alps, Carpathians, and Pyrenees.

In the ancient phytotherapeutic practice of Germanic and Slavic peoples, the root and leaves of lovage were used in the form of infusions, alcohol extracts, and decoctions. In the traditions of Austria, Switzerland, and Southern Germany, it was used for steam inhalations, lotions, rubs, and women's baths. In the ethnomedicine of Romania and Bulgaria, root infusions were considered a "cleansing potion" and were used in seasonal rituals of cleansing the body and home. In France and Brittany, an infusion of fresh leaves was used in rubdowns to "improve mood and protect against the evil eye."

According to Slavic folk belief, lovage was considered a "female herb of power," contributing to the harmonization of the emotional state and "warding off melancholy." In Ukrainian and Polish folk healing, the plant was part of "love potions," and was also used in wedding ceremonies and ablutions of the bride. In Western Ukrainian Galicia, sprigs of lovage were woven into wreaths and dried at the head of the bed as a protective remedy against insomnia and evil spirits.

In the culture of Northern Italy and Provence, its leaves were part of the so-called "spring cleansing salad" along with dandelion, nettle, and fennel, and the root was grated and smoked with other aromatic herbs to expel disease. In the Balkans, the plant was part of women's "bath collections" for washing hair and body, which was associated with restoring strength after childbirth.

In medieval manuscripts, including the "Physica" of Hildegard of Bingen and European herbals of the 15th century, lovage is mentioned as a plant that cleanses and "expels poisons through water and sweat." In Armenian and Georgian manuscript medicine, it was considered a component of infusions for external use for "heaviness in the joints" and "stagnant blood."

Non-medical uses include the use of the plant as a smoking agent in ritual practices, as well as in the preparation of aromatic sachets and amulets. In some regions, lovage was planted near the entrance to the house to attract good luck and protect the family from negative influences.