Acorus calamus L.

 

Scientific Name: Acorus calamus L.

Family: Acoraceae

Synonym: Calamus aromaticus Garsault Vernacular name: Vashanpa,Vayambu 

Habit: Aromatic marsh herb

Habitat: Semi-aquatic and marshy localities

Distribution: North temperate hemisphere and Tropical Asia

Flowering and Fruiting: April-July

 

Key identification features: Strongly aromatic semi-aquatic perennial herb; creeping rhizomes; pale to dark brown and spongy inside. Leaves  narrow, glossy bright green with an acute apex and an amplexicaul base. Flowers pale green, fragrant Fruits green berries contain 1-3 oblong seeds.

 

Tribal Consumers: Adiya

 

Uses: Acorus calamus is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its digestive, anti-inflammatory, and calming properties, often utilized to treat gastrointestinal issues, anxiety, and respiratory conditions.