Calamus Herb

Acorus calamus

Calamus herb is also known as Sweet flag, Flag root, Sweet sage, Sweet rush, Myrtle grass, Vacha, and Bacc.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

Calamus is an aquatic, reed-like plant that grows to three feet in height. It has sword-shaped leaves that resembles those of irises and produces a solid cylindrical flower spike that is two to four inches long, that is covered with small, tightly packed, greenish-yellow flowers.

It originated from Asia, Europe, and North American. It prefers muddy soil and grows in marshes, ditches, and along shallow, somewhat stagnant waterways. Plants that grow in the cool northern climates usually do not produce fruit.

It is used in incense sticks and dhup and is widely used as insecticide for lice, bedbugs, and worms. Because of it sweet smell, the volatile oil that is extracted from the roots is still used in perfumery today. All parts of the Calamus herb emit an aromatic fragrance that has been described as cinnamon-spicy and also reminiscent of the aroma of tangerines that has been crushed. The ground root has been used in potpourris, sachets, and hair powders.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Use internally for:

* stimulating the appetite

* relieving bloating

* relieving flatulence

* regulating stomach acid production

* calming digestion

* dispelling intestinal worms

* dyspeptic disorders

* gastritis

* ulcers

* sinusitis

* bronchitis

* asthma

* sinus headaches

* nervous disorders

* epilepsy

Apply externally for:

* soothing aching muscles

* skin eruptions

* rheumatic pain

* neuralgia

* varicose veins

Used in the bath for:

* fatigue

* nervous exhaustion

Use as a mouth rinse for:

* gum disease

PREPARATIONS:

It is available as a tincture, capsules, oil, powder, and dried chips.

It can be used as a infusion, decoction, and paste.

Parts used: Dried root (rhizome)

Collection: The rhizome is collected in the early to mid-Fall.

Constituents: Volatile oil, tannins, mucilage, resins

Actions: Carminative, stimulant, aromatic, demulcent, anti-spasmodic, nervine sedative, emetic, nauseant, expectorant, stomachic, antiseptic

Combinations: Can be combined with Meadowsweet and Marshmallow for gastric conditions.

It combines well with Ginger and Wild Yam to treat flatulent colic.

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS:

* Should not be used by women who are pregnant or nursing.

* If you suffer from liver or kidney disease, do not use Calamus herb.

* Excess use may cause nausea, vomiting, and rashes.