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Calamus - Acorus calamus - Ayurvedic Vacha

Tissues: nerve, plasma, muscle, marrow, fat, reproductive
Systems: nervous, respiratory, circulatory, digestive

Properties: nervine, mental stimulant, antispasmodic, carminative, rasayana (invigorator, rejuvenative), carminative, decongestant

Uses: loss of memory, shock, neuralgia, epilepsy, seizures, coma, deafness, hysteria, asthma, sinus headaches, increases mental cognition, neuralgia, asthma, nasal polyps, digestion issues

Dose – 1 to 4 grams a day, do not over use, about 1/3 teaspoon to a heaping teaspoon. The larger dose should be broken up into smaller doses several times a day, and preferably used with other herbs as large doses can be emetic

Calamus is a major herb for the mind and brain It is a rejuvenative for the brain and nervous system, which it purifies and revitalizes. It clears the subtle channels of obstructions and toxins, promote cerebral circulation and is considered to balance both hemispheres of the brain. It sharpens memory and awareness and increases communications ability and expression. In Sanskrit “Vacha” means speech. For balancing the brain and mental function, general use, or in epileptic conditions, it is often taken with Gotu Kola. A small amount of Ginger is often added.

It has been effectively used in attention deficit disorders, especially in combination with Bacopa, Jatamansi, Shankpushpi and Licorice. I use it commonly in herb blends for helping the nervous system, brain function and mental acuity.

It is also commonly used, traditionally in Europe, for many stomach and lung complaints, for cough it can be taken with licorice (avoid licorice if hypertensive). It is traditionally used for gas, bloating, poor appetite, and excess mucus in stomach and intestines. [I have never used it for these purposes, and would recommend using a small dose, with ginger or ginger tea.] For nasal polyps, or conditions of shock or hysteria, a small amount can be placed on the finger and used like snuff – inhale into each nostril. Burns for a moment only. This can help with instant results.

It is considered useful for people who have difficulty expressing themselves, or with speech impediments. For headaches, a paste of Calamus and water can be applied to the head, or for nerve pain, the paste can be applied to the feet or joints.

Note: The FDA has labeled Calamus “not for human consumption” which I ignore. The essential oil contains some constituents that can cause liver damage in large amounts. But Calamas has been used in countries all over the world for countless centuries, with no ill effects. It is most often used in herb blends. So if you buy it, it will say something like “for external use only”. I buy the kind from India which has more of the nervine qualities, easily ordered.