Evidence supporting the use of: Calamus rhizome
For the body system: Senses

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Calamus rhizome (Acorus calamus), also known as sweet flag, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In these traditions, it is often used to support the senses—especially for its purported effects on memory, mental clarity, and sensory perception. Traditional texts describe Calamus as a nervine and cognitive enhancer, believed to help with speech, hearing, and vision, and to clear obstructions in the mind and senses.

However, the scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. While some preliminary animal studies suggest Calamus extracts may have neuroprotective, anti-anxiety, or cognitive-enhancing effects, these findings are not yet robust or consistent in humans. Moreover, concerns exist about the safety of certain Calamus constituents, such as beta-asarone, which has shown carcinogenicity in animal studies. Regulatory agencies in several countries restrict the use of Calamus for this reason.

In summary, Calamus rhizome is traditionally used to support the senses, but high-quality scientific validation is lacking, and safety concerns further limit its use. Its reputation for supporting the senses remains grounded primarily in traditional practices rather than modern evidence.

More about Calamus rhizome
More about Senses

Products containing Calamus rhizome

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.