Calamus Root
Acorus calamus
PLANT NAME
Calamus Root
COMMON NAMES
Sweet Flag, Bitter Root, Sweet Root, Sweet Cane, Myrtle Flag.
BOTANICAL NAME
Acorus calamus
IDENTIFICATION
A wetland plant with iris-like, sword-shaped leaves that possess a sweet, aromatic scent when crushed. It has a creeping rhizome and produces a spadix covered in tiny greenish-yellow flowers.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Rhizome (root).
CULINARY USES
Historically used as a flavoring agent in bitters and liqueurs, though largely restricted or banned in food in many countries due to safety concerns (asarone content). Sometimes traditionally candied.
TRADITIONAL USES
Used in Ayurvedic and Native American traditions for digestive complaints, as a stimulant, and for voice and throat issues. Chewed for stomach ailments or used in teas.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Thrives in marshy areas, shallow water, and along muddy banks. Rhizomes are typically harvested in late autumn or early spring, then cleaned and dried.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Certain chemotypes contain beta-asarone, which is considered toxic and carcinogenic. Banned as a food additive in the US by the FDA. Use with extreme caution. Always consult your doctor before using this or any herbal remedy.
RELATED PLANTS
Acorus americanus (American sweet flag, typically beta-asarone free).