Acorus calamus
Acorus calamus
Acorus calamus (pronunciation: /əˈkɔːrəs ˈkæləməs/), also known as sweet flag or calamus, is a tall perennial wetland monocot of the Acoraceae family. The plant is native to Asia, Europe, and North America.
Etymology
The genus name Acorus is derived from the Greek word 'akoron', a name used by Dioscorides, which in turn was derived from 'coreon', meaning 'pupil', because it was used in herbal medicine as a treatment for inflammation of the eye. The species name calamus is derived from the Greek 'kalamos', meaning 'reed'.
Description
Acorus calamus is a herbaceous, perennial plant. It prefers moist, marshy areas where it grows in abundance. The plant's leaves are sword-shaped, flat and narrow, resembling those of the iris, and emit a sweet fragrance when crushed.
Medicinal Uses
Acorus calamus has been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments. Its rhizome has been used to treat digestive problems, fever, bronchitis, and certain diseases of the brain. It is also used as a sedative and as an ingredient in perfumes.
Related Terms
- Acoraceae: The plant family to which Acorus calamus belongs.
- Monocot: A type of flowering plant that includes Acorus calamus.
- Rhizome: The part of Acorus calamus used in traditional medicine.
- Herbal medicine: The use of plants for medicinal purposes, including Acorus calamus.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acorus calamus
- Wikipedia's article - Acorus calamus
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