Known scientifically as acorus gramineus, and commonly referred to as shi chang pu, chang pu, and sweet flag rhizome, acorus is a grasslike, rhizome-forming perennial plant that can be found in wet areas like the edges of streams or around lakes and ponds. The medicinal parts of the plant are the rhizomes which have an aromatic, spicy fragrance.

The antioxidant properties of acorus have effects that are beneficial on the central nervous system. In Thailand, the Akha people have used it for some time to treat stomachache. In China, it is a popular choice for treating abdominal pain, dysentery (infection of the intestines), diarrhea and vomiting.

Acorus has a tranquilizing effect on the mind and has been used to treat insomnia, amnesia and heart palpitations. Its ability to eliminate phlegm makes it a choice among many to treat bronchial asthma and chronic bronchitis.

Acrous has also been shown to be beneficial in treating a variety of brain conditions including seizure disorders. Acorus works by shielding brain tissue from free radicals. When excess oxygen is present in the brain, free radicals can be released. When the brain cells that were previously deprived of oxygen begin to receive it again, they are temporarily unable to use all of the oxygen available to them. The biochemical pathways cannot control the oxygen and it escapes causing free radical damage to occur.

This damage to the brain tissue can lead to seizures or memory loss. This formation of free radicals of oxygen and the brain tissue damage can be prevented with acorus. For it to be most effective however, it should be used prior to circulation restoration - that is, in the first few days to a month after a stroke or injury.

Acorus can also have beneficial effects on those suffering from drug withdrawal. It is particularly helpful for people experiencing withdrawals from morphine, cocaine and heroin. Within the first week to week and a half of withdrawal, intense cravings, vomiting and nausea are common among drug addicts. While acorus has no effect on the cravings themselves, it can help - through its ability to prevent the secretion of an inflammatory chemical called histamine - during the acute phase of drug withdrawal when gastric upset is common.

You can find acorus being supplied from practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the form of tinctures, powders and teas. While the TCM form of acorus is legal in the United States, it is banned in Canada and its American relative calamus contains a chemical that is potentially cancer-causing and therefore is banned in the US. Acorus however, is not but it should always be used under the direction of a professional health care practitioner.

* Important notes: It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using acorus or any alternative therapies. Any recommended doses are for those over age 18. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.