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Aromatic Calamus 

Aromatic Calamus Root Cut Herbal Tea

• Product: Aromatic Calamus Root Cut Herbal Tea
• Botanical Name: Acorus calamus
• Origin: Bosnia and Herzegovina

Aromatic Calamus (Acorus calamus) or Venus Herb

Aromatic calamus (Acorus calamus), also known as Venus herb, sweet flag, or calamus, is a perennial marsh herb belonging to the Acoraceae family. Originally from Asia, this plant has spread to Europe and temperate climate countries, including North America. Aromatic calamus prefers humid environments such as ponds, marshes, and riparian zones.

The plant can reach a height of 50 centimeters to one meter. Its leaves are linear and erect, dark green in color, while the hermaphroditic flowers are grouped in conical spadix inflorescences of yellow or light green color. The fruits are red berries. The most used part of the aromatic calamus is the root, the branched and aromatic rhizome, which is dried to prepare herbal teas and other natural remedies.

This plant is known for its multiple uses and beneficial properties, which will be explored in the following paragraphs.

Aromatic Calamus: Uses

Aromatic calamus is a versatile plant with numerous uses in different fields. In herbal medicine, the dried rhizome is valued for its digestive properties and is often used to prepare herbal teas. To make an aromatic calamus tea, simply place a teaspoon of dried rhizome in a cup of boiling water, let it steep for 10-15 minutes, and then strain.

In the field of mixology, aromatic calamus is a valuable ingredient for preparing cocktails and liqueurs. Its pungent and spicy aroma enriches bitters, vermouth, and bitter, giving these beverages a unique flavor. It is also a key component in chinotto, where it contributes to the characteristic bitter taste.

Aromatic calamus has indeed found application in the production of digestives and aperitifs thanks to its tonic properties and its ability to stimulate gastric secretion. Its presence in these products not only enhances the taste but also aids digestion.

In cooking, aromatic calamus is used in both sweet and savory dishes. The shoots can be added to salads for a touch of freshness, while the root is used to flavor meat dishes and Arab and Indian desserts. Young leaves can replace vanilla to flavor sweets.

The perfumery industry exploits the essence of aromatic calamus to create exotic and long-lasting fragrances. The essential oil of aromatic calamus extracted from the rhizome is also used in oral hygiene products such as mouthwashes and toothpastes, as well as in lotions and creams for the skin.

Aromatic Calamus: Properties

Aromatic calamus is known for its numerous beneficial properties, making it a versatile natural remedy.

Thanks to the presence of compounds such as asarone, polyphenols, and essential oil, this plant has antibacterial and insecticidal properties.

It is particularly appreciated for its digestive, eupeptic, and stomachic qualities, making it an effective ally against slow and difficult digestion.

Its carminative and antispasmodic properties help reduce bloating and abdominal cramps, while its sedative and analgesic action helps relieve pain and promote relaxation. Aromatic calamus is also a good diuretic, useful in cases of colic, stomach aches, eczema, and liver problems.

Additionally, it is used as an emetic and laxative in traditional Indian medicine to treat acute intermittent fevers and some nervous diseases. Recent studies have confirmed its sedative properties on the central nervous system, attributable to the presence of beta-asarone in the essential oil.

This makes aromatic calamus a valuable support for managing anxiety and seizures.

Contraindications

Despite its numerous beneficial properties, aromatic calamus has some contraindications that are important to know. Due to its emmenagogue properties, the use of aromatic calamus is not recommended during pregnancy. Additionally, the plant's rhizome contains beta-asarone, a molecule with potential mutagenic activity, which makes it prudent to limit the use of aromatic calamus extracts and infusions without proper precautions.

It is always advisable to consult a specialist before starting a treatment based on aromatic calamus to avoid possible side effects or unwanted interactions with other medications. Although no significant pharmacological interactions are known, the improper use of aromatic calamus could pose health risks.

Aromatic Calamus for Sale Online

On Terzaluna, you can purchase dried aromatic calamus rhizome cut for tea, available in various weights to meet different needs.

This high-quality product is ideal for preparing beneficial teas, making the most of the properties of aromatic calamus. Whether you are a herbal enthusiast or a mixology expert, on Terzaluna you will find the format that best suits your needs, always ensuring the maximum freshness and purity of the dried rhizome.

Acorus calamus

Origin: Bosnia Herzegovina