description Calamus Root Overview
Calamus root is the dried rhizome of Acorus calamus, also called sweet flag. It has been used as a flavoring material and in traditional herbal practices, while its aromatic oil contains beta-asarone, a compound that has raised safety concerns. Under U.S. federal food regulations, food with added calamus, calamus oil, or calamus extract is treated as adulterated under a rule based on a 1968 FDA order.
help Calamus Root FAQ
What is calamus root?
Calamus root is the dried rhizome of Acorus calamus, also called sweet flag. It has been used as a flavoring material and in traditional herbal practices.
Why is beta-asarone important in calamus root?
The aromatic oil of calamus contains beta-asarone, a compound that has raised safety concerns. That chemical issue is important when considering calamus products for food or herbal use.
Is calamus root allowed as a food ingredient in the United States?
U.S. federal food regulations restrict calamus and its oil because of safety concerns linked to beta-asarone. The legal status therefore differs from its historical use as a flavoring and traditional herb.
How is calamus root used traditionally?
Historically, calamus root has been used as an aromatic flavoring and in traditional herbal practices. Modern use requires caution because its volatile oil can contain beta-asarone.
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