Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Sweet flag (Acorus calamus) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for treating respiratory issues, including colds and congestion. The rhizome of sweet flag is often used as a remedy for coughs, bronchitis, and as a decongestant, typically administered in the form of powders, teas, or inhaled smoke. These traditional uses are based on the plant’s aromatic and stimulant properties, which are believed to help clear nasal passages and promote easier breathing.

While there is anecdotal and ethnobotanical evidence supporting its decongestant use, modern scientific studies validating these effects are limited. Some in vitro studies have shown that sweet flag contains volatile oils (such as β-asarone, α-asarone) with potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which could theoretically contribute to respiratory relief. However, these effects have not been robustly confirmed in clinical trials for colds or as decongestants in humans. Additionally, concerns exist over the safety of certain compounds (notably β-asarone) due to potential toxicity with prolonged or excessive use. Therefore, while traditional use is well-documented, scientific validation remains weak, meriting a moderate evidence rating.

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