Sweet Flag or Calamus (Acorus calamus) grows throughout India. Some species have been brought to China and the herb is now an important constituent of Ayurvedic medicine. It is mostly appreciated for its purifying effects on the mind. It helps to enhance awareness, memory and mental vigor. In the same time it calms the mind. Ayurveda uses Sweet Flag to alleviate hangover and intoxication, especially from cannabis or other mind altering substances. It is also effective in regulating breathing, clearing the lungs and relieving asthma. It's slightly bitter taste promotes appetite. The fragrant leaves have been used in medieval times as insecticides and centuries before that by Egyptians to make incense. In higher doses it can act as an aphrodisiac.

Roots can be boiled into a tea (5g per cup) and leaves can be used as incense to awaken the spirit and elevate the mind.

Click the Ethnobotanicals link to see all products in this category.