Acorus calamus
Acorus calamus
Afrikaans: Makkalmoes
English : Sweet-flag
IsiXhosa:
Zulu : Ikalamutsi, Indawolucwatha
Description and diagnostic features
The flattened creeping rhizomes are clearly segmented. Flat leaves grow erect from the stolon like bamboo leaves.
Part used
Stolons.
It is more potent when grown at high altitudes.
Uses
Stamina, tonic.
Upset stomach. Dysentery.
Combined with eucalyptus leaves for stuffy nose.
Combined with Warburgia for flu.
Combined with Warburgia and Artemisia afra for /Bronchitis
Combined with Siphonochilus aethiopicus for colic
Combined with Warburgia and Cassine transvaalensis for cold sores and Shingles
Warning
Very strong taste and aroma.
High volumes can cause hallucinations.
Potentially toxic in overuse and has been associated with some forms of cancer.
Often combined with other herbs.
Habitat
Grows best in shallow water. Littered with dead decomposing leaves.
Propagation
Grows from divided stolons.
Compare to Rhino bush.