Sweet flag
Acorus calamus · Acoraceae
Sweet flag
Acore
Acorus calamus
Acoraceae

Traditionally used
⚠ Contains β-asarone (a carcinogen; banned as a food additive) — use only a β-asarone-free chemotype (the triploid/tetraploid strains) or properly processed root, avoid in pregnancy, and never prolonged or high-dose. A bitter aromatic root taken traditionally as a warm infusion, or by chewing a small piece, to rouse appetite and ease sluggish digestion, gas, and mild gastric cramp.
In three languages
Français — ⚠ Contient de la β-asarone (cancérogène; interdite comme additif alimentaire) — n'employer qu'un chémotype sans β-asarone (souches triploïde/tétraploïde) ou une racine correctement traitée, éviter pendant la grossesse, jamais d'usage prolongé ni à forte dose. Racine aromatique amère employée en infusion tiède, ou mâchée en petit morceau, pour ouvrir l'appétit et soulager digestion lente, gaz et légers spasmes gastriques.
Safety
Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.
Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.
Sources & lineage
German Commission E (Calami rhizoma); β-asarone toxicology (EMA); European phytotherapy
Kept alongside