Description : Acorus calamus (also called sweet flag or calamus, among many common names) is a tall perennial wetland monocot of the Acoraceae family, in the genus Acorus. In spite of common names that include the words “rush” and “sedge“, it is neither a rush nor sedge. The scented leaves and more strongly scented rhizomes have traditionally been used medicinally and to make fragrances, and the dried and powdered rhizome has been used as a substitute for ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Calamus is a greatly valued herb in Ayurveda, as its stimulating aroma rejuvenates the brain and the nervous system. It is also effective against digestive disorders.
- The root of the plant is internally used to treat bronchitis, sinusitis etc. It has the wonderful power of stimulating and normalizing the appetite. In small doses, it also serves to reduce stomach acidity. Larger doses increase stomach secretions.
- The plant is externally used to treat skin eruptions, rheumatic pains and neuralgia.
- It is also believed to remedy arthritis, cancer, convulsions, diarrhoea, dyspepsia, epilepsy etc.
- Chewing the root of calamus helps fight tobacco addiction. It kills the taste for tobacco over time.
- The root is also used to make a type of tea. Warm calamus tea works to soothe sore throat, when drunk warm or gargled with.
- A homeopathic remedy is made from the roots of the plant, which is used to treat flatulence, dyspepsia, anorexia and disorders of the gall bladder.
- It serves as a nauseant, stomachic, anthelmentic, stimulants, emetic, expectorant, carminative, antispasmodic and nervine sedative.
- Due to its aroma, calamus is also used to make essential oil. The calamus essential oil is much valued in the perfume industry.
- The herb was added to wine in Europe. The root of the plant is also one of the possible ingredients of absinthe.
- The northern Native Americans use the herb for medical purposes as well as a stimulant. The root is believed to be used as entheogen among them. However, higher doses can be hallucinogenic.
- Steaming the root of calamus throughout the home is believed by many to cure certain types of sickness.
- Teton-Dakota warriors used to chew the roots of this herb to make a paste, which they rubbed on their faces. They believed it would prevent excitement and fear, while facing an enemy.
- Feeling more energetic
- Feeling less anxiety
- Relief from sore throat
- Relief from headaches
- A decrease in the side effects of hallucinogens
Side Effects : Calamus was banned as a food additive by the US Food and Drug Administration after lab studies with a chemical in Calamus was found to be possibly carcinogenic. However, the diploid strain of the Calamus plant is believed to be a safe option as it does not contain the chemical used in the study.