Plant Profile: Calamus

Calamus

(Acorus calamus)

Family: ARACEAE

Energetics: Slightly warming. Drying. 

Taste: Bitter. Acrid. 

Tissue States: 

Systems Affected: Digestive system. Liver. Brain. 

Parts Used: Rhizome

Key Components: Mucilage. Volatile oils (up to 3%). Bitter principles. Glycosides. Tannins. Amino acids. Organic acids. Acorin. Beta-asarone (the european variety that the american variety doesn't seem to possess). 

Preparations & dosage: Infusion: Tincture: 1 dropperful. Chew fresh root (1-2 tbsp/day). 

Actions: 

Foundational: Aromatic. Bitter. Stimulant.
Primary: Carminative. Emetic. Expectorant. 
Secondary: Antispasmodic. 

Uses: 

Hyperacidity in the stomach & intestines. 
Gastritis. Gastric ulcers. Stimulates the appetite. 
Stomach acid being allowed back up into the mouth. 

Support for people who are choosing to move away from an unhealthy relationship with food. Fear around food and being full.

Has been said to help when one wants to quit smoking. 

Also can be helpful to improve mental focus and cognitive function. 

Restores the throat and voice. 



Combines well with: Ginger. Wild yam. Meadowsweet. Marshmallow. Gotu Kola. 

Identifying: 

Growing: Wet, mucky, rich soil. Zone 2-10. 

Harvesting:

Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy. Extremely high doses have been shown to have hallucinogenic effects. 

Sources: 

The Complete Herbs Sourcebook: David Hoffman. Pg 233

The Way of Herbs: Michael Tierra. Pg 107-108

The Herbal Apothecary: JJ Pursell. Pg 82-83

Studies:


This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, nor is it intended to replace medical advice. For educational purposes only.