Lovage Root (Levisticum officinale) is a herbaceous essential oil with a earthy, warm, celery-like aroma and a base note. Steam distillation from root, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Frankincense (Carterii), Lavender, Cedarwood (Atlas). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 0.5%.
Lovage root oil. Phototoxic due to furanocoumarins (psoralen, bergapten). Tisserand max dermal varies by furanocoumarin content.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Herbaceous |
| Chemical family | Monoterpene |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | root |
| Origin | France, Germany |
| Blending factor | 3 |
| Volatility index | 3 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 5.0 |
Safety & dilution
Phototoxic (furanocoumarins). Avoid sun/UV for 12-18 hours after topical use.
| Max topical dilution | 0.5% |
| Max facial dilution | 0.25% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Not recommended |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Phototoxic limit | 0.5% |
Safety flags
Evidence: Traditional.
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Scale amounts to any container with the dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Frequently asked questions
What does Lovage Root essential oil smell like?
Lovage Root has a earthy, warm, celery-like, herbal aroma, classed as a herbaceous oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Lovage Root?
For topical use, keep Lovage Root at or below 0.5%, and 0.25% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Lovage Root safe to use during pregnancy?
Lovage Root is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Lovage Root safe to use around children?
Lovage Root is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Lovage Root safe around pets?
For cats — avoid; not considered safe; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Lovage Root blend well with?
Lovage Root pairs well with Frankincense (Carterii), Lavender, Cedarwood (Atlas), Ginger, Black Pepper.