It has a thick and fleshy root, 5 or 6 inches long, shaped like a carrot, of a grayish-brown color on the outside and whitish within. It has a strong aromatic smell and taste. The thick, erect hollow and channeled stems grow 3 or 4 feet or even more in height.
Lovage is used to treat kidney stones, jaundice, malaria, sore throat, pleurisy, rheumatism, gout, and boils. This plant also works well in treating indigestion, gas, and colic, especially in children, and it helps stimulate the appetite. It also improves