Calamus Root

We are pleased to be offering the Native American species of Calamus, a semi-aquatic plant whose root has been revered and utilized both medicinally and spiritually by Native people throughout North America for thousands of years. It was said to be wild cultivated along heavily used trade routes for accessibility during travel as chewing the root was known to increase Stamina and can also prevent motion sickness. There is more recent evidence of using Calamus root in the treatment of type 2 diabetes, diverse digestive complaints, respiratory issues, especially where the voice is compromised and as an insect repellant. Calamus requires partial to full sun and plenty of moisture with bog-like soil conditions to thrive. It has graceful Iris-like leaves and Catkin-like yellow-green flowers. Its distinctive fragrance has a spicy but sweet overtone, slightly citrus-like. The roots spread quickly and the plant will spread rapidly in moist conditions resulting in a generous herbal harvest. The FDA warns against chronic use of Calamus. It is your responsibility to do extensive research and consult with an experienced herbalist before taking any herb you are not familiar with. A lovely and useful addition to the herb garden if the right conditions are available. Full to part sun and moist, fertile soils. Hardy. Perennial. Zones 4-11.