Calamus Root - Acorus calamus

The rhizome of the sweet sedge has long been rumored as a psychoactive substance with possible hallucinogenic properties. However, it seems that it is not Calamus but a similar, possibly related plant that may have such properties- for Calamus this claim has not been substantiated. This confusion stems from a possible mistranslation of a herb's name found in Dioscorides' writings.

Traditional:
Calamus does in fact have stimulating and warming properties that can have a useful therapeutic effect.
Its main application has been in the treatment of stomach complaints and as a detoxifying tonic that rids the body of waste materials
. It is strongly diuretic and can be used in cases of oedema.
Calamus is also reputed to be a powerful nervous system tonic and as a useful herb for the mind and memory. In Tibetan medicine incense containing Calamus root is used therapeutically as a nerve tonic.
Externally, a decoction of Calamus can be added to the bathwater as a stimulating, warming additive, e.g. in inflammatory or scrofulous skin conditions, chilblains and the like and is also said to strengthen feeble children.

Magical:
Although probably not as an entheogen, Calamus has long played a role in magical herbalism. It has been used for protection, especially from snakes and snake bites, as well as from evil spirits. In medieval Europe the leaves were used as a strewing herb whilst the aromatic roots were burnt as incense. It also has a long tradition as an aphrodisiac in both Europe and Asia, and in India Calamus root is considered nourishment for the Kundalini snake.

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