Calamus Root

What is calamus root?

Calamus, also known as sweet flag, bitter pepper root, rat root, sweet cane, myrtle grass, and sweet sedge, is a perennial herb. It has tall, hard, sharp leaves and a knobby rhizome that is often used in herbal medicines. This herb, which is called Acorus calamus in the scientific world, has been used in both Chinese and Indian traditional medicine. The stems, leaves, and roots have all been used. But the plant and products made from it have been banned in some countries, including the United States, because of fears that they might cause cancer. But in small amounts that are controlled, the risks are low and the benefits are big. People believe that the chemicals in calamus relax muscles and induce sleep. These chemicals might also kill cancer cells, reduce swelling, and kill insects.

How do I use calamus root?

Some individuals chew calamus to eliminate tobacco odor, as a stimulant, to enhance their sense of well-being, and as a hallucinogen. Some people apply calamus directly to the epidermis to treat specific skin diseases. People use calamus as a seasoning for cuisines.

Calamus root benefits:

Some of the most impressive things that calamus can do are cure mental disorders, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and treat headaches. The leaves of Acorus calamus smell sweet, and the underground rhizomes taste spicy. It is often used in place of spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, but the long list of health benefits of acorus makes it stand out.  Even though there are safety concerns, calamus is often used for stomach problems, skin problems, earaches, and to get rid of the smell of tobacco, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

◉ Depression: The effects of this herb on the nervous system are well known and proven, so drinking calamus tea made from the rhizome (root) can be very helpful for people with mental disorders or depression.

◉ Inflammation: The essential oil from this herb can quickly relieve pain and discomfort in the muscles and joints. This benefit makes it a popular natural remedy for people with rheumatoid arthritis, headaches, migraines, gout, and other inflammatory conditions.

◉ Hormone Secretion: With dozens of different volatile oils and antioxidants, this plant can give your hormone production and regulation a big boost. These benefits can help balance your hormones, which can improve your mood, sex drive, energy, and menstrual cycle.

◉ Epilepsy and Nervous System: This herb was often used in traditional medicine to treat problems with the nervous system, such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease. Even though this herb isn't a cure or a long-term solution to these complicated problems, it can treat the symptoms very well.

Where can I buy calamus root?

Buy calamus root from the health food store in the USA, Alive Herbals.

Calamus root information (at a glance):