Lovage Seeds 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Lovage Seed: A Complete Guide

What are Lovage Seeds

Lovage seeds come from a plant called lovage, which is a perennial herb. It’s got a strong flavor, kinda like a mix of celery and parsley, and it’s been used for centuries in cooking and even medicine. The seeds are small and oval-shaped, with a reddish-brown color. In the kitchen, they can be used whole or ground up, and they add a unique, zesty taste to soups, stews, and pickles. Some people even use it in homemade seasoning blends. Besides its flavor, lovage seeds have been traditionally used for digestive issues and as a natural remedy to help with bloating. But, honestly, not a lot of people use it much these days, so it might be one of those hidden gems you can experiment with if you like exploring new herbs in your cooking.

Other Names of Lovage Seeds

Here are some other names for lovage seeds:

1. Levisticum officinale – This is the scientific name for the plant, but it’s not something you’d usually hear in the kitchen.
2. European Lovage – It refers to the fact that lovage originally comes from Europe, and it’s still more common there than in other parts of the world.
3. Love Parsley – This name shows how it’s related to parsley, both in taste and appearance. It’s a bit of a fun nickname.
4. Maggi Plant – Some people call it this because of its similarity to the taste of the famous Maggi seasoning. If you like that flavor, lovage seeds might just remind you of it!
5. Celery Seed’s Cousin – Since lovage tastes a bit like celery, sometimes it’s casually referred to this way, especially when it’s used in recipes as a substitute.

It’s interesting how these names give a hint at its uses and origins.

Nutritional Value of Lovage Seeds

While specific nutritional values may vary slightly based on factors like growing conditions and cultivation methods, here is a general overview of the nutritional composition of lovage seeds per 100 grams:

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	354
Protein	18 g
Fat	12 g
Carbohydrates	64 g
Fiber	28 g
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin A	7700 IU
Vitamin C	93 mg
Vitamin K	8.2 mcg
Folate	155 mcg
Niacin (B3)	2.7 mg
Pyridoxine (B6)	1.6 mg
Riboflavin (B2)	0.4 mg
Thiamine (B1)	0.2 mg
Vitamin E	5.3 mg
Potassium	4500 mg
Calcium	1200 mg
Iron	23 mg
Magnesium	200 mg
Phosphorus	340 mg
Zinc	3 mg
Manganese	6.4 mg

Benefits of Lovage Seeds

Here are some of the benefits of lovage seeds:

1. Helps Digestion – Lovage seeds have been used for years to help with digestive problems. If you’re feeling bloated or have an upset stomach, a bit of lovage might help settle things down.
2. Natural Diuretic – It’s known to increase urine production, which can help your body get rid of extra water and toxins. So, if you’re looking to flush out some excess water weight or just feel lighter, it might do the trick.
3. Supports Healthy Skin – Some people believe lovage can help with skin conditions like acne because it helps clear out toxins from the body. Keeping your insides clean can sometimes show up on your skin, too.
4. Good for Respiratory Health – Lovage seeds are thought to help with things like coughs and colds. The seeds can act as an expectorant, helping clear out mucus from your lungs and throat.
5. Anti-inflammatory Properties – If you’ve got joint pain or inflammation, lovage might help calm things down. It’s not a miracle cure, but it’s a natural option some people turn to.
6. Rich in Antioxidants – Like many herbs, lovage seeds are packed with antioxidants, which help protect your body from harmful free radicals. This can be good for overall health and may even help slow down aging.

Varieties of Lovage Seeds

When it comes to lovage seeds, there aren’t too many different varieties like you’d find with other plants. However, there are a few different types of lovage plants, which can affect how the seeds end up looking or tasting. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Common Lovage (Levisticum officinale) – This is the most common type, and it’s what most people think of when they hear “lovage.” The seeds from this plant are what you’ll find in most stores, and they’re what you’d use in cooking. The taste is strong and the plant grows quite tall, making it a staple in many herb gardens.
2. Golden Lovage – This variety has a slightly different look. The leaves of the plant have a golden tint, and the seeds can sometimes be a little lighter in color. The taste is similar to the common variety but with a slightly milder flavor, making it a good choice if you want the benefits of lovage but in a less intense form.
3. Aromatic Lovage – As the name suggests, this variety is especially fragrant. The seeds from this type of lovage might have a slightly more intense aroma, making them great for flavoring dishes that need that extra burst of fragrance and taste.

Since lovage isn’t grown in many places outside of Europe, these varieties aren’t something you’ll find everywhere. Still, if you’re into herbs and want to experiment with different flavors, looking for these might be a fun way to switch up your cooking.

What Do Lovage Seeds Taste Like

Lovage seeds have a pretty strong, earthy flavor. It’s kinda hard to describe, but if you’ve ever tasted celery or parsley, you’re halfway there. They’ve got that same fresh, slightly tangy vibe, but with a bit more intensity. Some people say there’s also a hint of anise or licorice in there, so it’s got this unique, sharp kick. When you use them in cooking, the taste can be really bold, so they work well in savory dishes like soups or stews where you want that extra punch of flavor.

How To Use Lovage Seeds

Here’s how you can use lovage seeds in your cooking or even for health benefits:

1. Grinding the Seeds – Lovage seeds have a strong flavor, so grinding them into a powder can help control how much you use. You can sprinkle this powder in soups, stews, or sauces to add a bit of an earthy, celery-like taste. It’s perfect if you want to add flavor without using a ton of fresh herbs.
2. In Pickling – Since lovage seeds have that zesty flavor, they can be a great addition to pickling brines. They add a unique twist to pickles or even homemade sauerkraut. Just toss a few seeds into your brine, and it’ll give your jars a slightly spicy, aromatic flavor.
3. In Seasoning Blends – You can mix lovage seeds with other herbs like dill, thyme, or fennel to make a custom seasoning mix. It’s great for adding to roasted veggies or even sprinkling on top of fresh bread before baking.
4. Tea or Infusion – If you’re looking for a natural way to help with digestion, try making a tea with lovage seeds. Just steep a teaspoon of the seeds in boiling water for about 5-10 minutes. It’s great for soothing a stomach ache or helping with bloating.
5. In Baking – While it’s not super common, you can also toss a bit of ground lovage seed into your bread or cracker dough. It’ll add a subtle flavor that pairs well with savory baked goods. Just don’t go overboard, since the flavor can be pretty strong.
6. Medicinal Uses – Outside of cooking, you can use lovage seeds for their traditional medicinal benefits. They’ve been used for things like easing digestion or as a diuretic. You can make a simple tincture or infusion with the seeds to help with these issues, but make sure to use them in moderation and consult a health expert if needed.

Using lovage seeds might seem a bit different, but once you get the hang of it, they can add a lot of character to your dishes and even help out with digestion.

Substitute for Lovage Seeds

If you’re looking for a substitute for lovage seeds, here are a few options that can give you a similar flavor or texture in recipes:

1. Celery Seeds – Celery seeds are probably the closest substitute. They have that fresh, slightly bitter taste, which is really similar to lovage seeds. They’re a great swap in soups, salads, or pickles, and they’re often easier to find in most grocery stores.
2. Fennel Seeds – If you want a slightly sweeter and more aromatic flavor, fennel seeds work well. They have a hint of licorice, which can complement the earthy taste of lovage. They’re not exactly the same, but they add a unique twist to dishes like sauces or spice blends.
3. Parsley (Fresh or Dried) – Fresh parsley or even dried parsley can stand in for lovage in recipes, especially if you’re just looking for a mild, herby flavor. It won’t have the same intensity as lovage seeds, but it works well in things like soups or stews.
4. Caraway Seeds – Caraway seeds are another good option, especially in baked goods or savory dishes. They have a nutty, slightly sweet taste and a bit of peppery kick, which can mimic the flavor of lovage in certain recipes, like breads or hearty dishes.
5. Dill Seeds – Dill seeds are a bit more delicate in flavor but still work in pickling and seasoning blends. If you’re making something like a cucumber pickle and don’t have lovage seeds, dill seeds could provide a similar fresh, tangy punch.
6. Thyme or Oregano – For more of the savory side, dried thyme or oregano could stand in for the herbal side of lovage. While the flavor is a bit different, it can still give your dish that herby background flavor you might be after.

Each of these substitutes has its own unique twist, so it really depends on what you’re aiming for in your dish. If you want to keep the flavor close, celery or fennel seeds would be your best bet.

Where to Buy Lovage Seeds

Finding lovage seeds can be a little tricky, but there are definitely places where you can get them. Here’s a list of some good spots to check out:

1. Local Garden Centers or Nurseries – If you’re into growing your own herbs, your local garden center or nursery is a great first stop. They often carry a variety of seeds, including lovage, especially if they specialize in herbs. You can ask if they have them in stock or if they can order them for you.
2. Online Seed Retailers – There are a bunch of websites that sell seeds, and many of them carry lovage seeds. Some popular ones include:
   • Burpee – Known for a wide variety of vegetable and herb seeds.
   • Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds – Specializes in rare and heirloom varieties.
   • Seed Savers Exchange – Great for unique and hard-to-find seeds. These places usually ship worldwide, and you can often find organic options too!
3. Etsy – If you’re into supporting small businesses, Etsy is a good place to find lovage seeds. Lots of sellers specialize in rare or heirloom seeds, and you can usually see reviews from other buyers to make sure you’re getting a good deal.
4. Amazon – Believe it or not, Amazon can sometimes carry lovage seeds. It’s worth checking because you can compare different sellers and prices, plus look at customer feedback to get an idea of quality.
5. Farmers Markets – Some farmers markets carry herb seeds, and you might get lucky finding lovage seeds there. It’s worth asking around, especially if you live in an area where gardening is popular.
6. Specialty Herb Shops – If you live near a specialty herb shop or a natural food store, they might carry herbs in seed form. It’s less common, but they might surprise you, especially if they focus on medicinal herbs.

If you’re not sure where to start, online retailers are probably your best bet for a wide selection. Plus, you can usually find great descriptions of the seeds to help you choose

How To Store Lovage Seeds

Storing lovage seeds properly is important if you want them to stay fresh for future use. Here’s how you can do it right:

1. Cool, Dry Place – Lovage seeds need a stable, cool environment to stay fresh. Ideal temperatures for seed storage are between 32°F (0°C) and 50°F (10°C), which is pretty much the temperature of a basement or a storage room in your house. If it gets too warm (like in a sunny kitchen or near the stove), the seeds might lose their potency, and if it’s too humid, you risk them molding or sprouting early. So, aim for a place where they’ll stay dry, away from any moisture or excessive heat.
2. Airtight Containers – Airtight containers are key because they keep moisture, air, and pests away from your seeds. Lovage seeds can be stored in glass jars with tight-fitting lids, plastic containers, or even vacuum-sealed bags. If you’re using zip-top bags, press out as much air as possible before sealing them. A really nice option is to use metal tins or old spice containers that you’ve thoroughly washed and dried. Just remember, the tighter the seal, the better protected your seeds will be.
3. Labeling – Labeling might sound like a small detail, but trust me, it’s super useful in the long run. You can simply use masking tape or sticky notes with a pen to label your containers. Write down the type of seed, the date it was harvested or purchased, and any other info that might help (like if you dried them yourself or got them from a specific place). This way, when you’re ready to use them, you won’t be stuck wondering how old they are, and you can keep track of their freshness.
4. Darkness Matters – Light can degrade seeds over time, especially if you’re storing them for long periods. If you’re using clear containers, make sure to store them in a dark place, like a drawer or a cupboard, where sunlight won’t reach them. If your containers are transparent, you could even wrap them in a cloth or store them inside an opaque box to protect them from light. Light can cause them to dry out or lose flavor, so it’s best to keep them in complete darkness.
5. Check for Dampness or Mold – Even though airtight containers should protect your seeds from moisture, it’s always a good idea to check on them from time to time. If you live in a particularly humid area, it’s smart to open the containers every couple of months to make sure no dampness has built up inside. If you notice any moisture at all, it’s a good idea to take the seeds out and dry them again before sealing them up. You can spread them out on a paper towel in a dry place for a day or two to fully dry them out before storing again. Mold is a bigger problem, though, so if you find any, it’s best to toss those seeds and start fresh.
6. Freezing for Long-Term Storage – Freezing seeds is a great way to store them for the long term, especially if you bought a large batch or want to keep them for years. Lovage seeds can last for several years in the freezer, but they need to be properly prepared. First, make sure the seeds are thoroughly dry before freezing—this is a must. Place them in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag to avoid exposure to air or moisture, and then store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to use them, let them come to room temperature before opening the container, so they don’t develop condensation inside.
7. Drying Seeds (If You Harvested Them Yourself) – If you’re harvesting your own lovage seeds, the drying process is really important. Spread the seeds out on a clean, dry surface like a baking sheet or a piece of paper. Let them dry in a warm, dry place for about a week, making sure they are completely dry before storing them. Any remaining moisture can cause the seeds to mold or rot, so make sure they’re crisp and firm before putting them away.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure that your lovage seeds stay fresh for longer, and you’ll be able to use them for months or even years down the road without worrying about them losing their flavor or going bad. Proper storage can really make a difference when it comes time to use them in your recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lovage Seeds