Evidence supporting the use of: Calamus rhizome
For the health condition: Cough (dry)

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Synopsis

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

Calamus rhizome (Acorus calamus, also known as sweet flag) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and various folk medicines. In Ayurvedic practice, calamus is valued for its supposed expectorant and demulcent properties, and is commonly prescribed for respiratory ailments, including coughs, especially dry coughs. Texts such as the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita mention its use for clearing phlegm and soothing the throat. In TCM, calamus (Shi Chang Pu) is more commonly used for cognitive and digestive complaints, but some traditional records indicate its use in mixtures for throat and respiratory issues. The rhizome is typically administered as a powder, infusion, or decoction.

However, modern scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. While calamus contains essential oils and compounds (like β-asarone) that have demonstrated antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic activity in laboratory studies, well-designed clinical trials validating its effectiveness for dry cough are lacking. Safety concerns also exist due to the carcinogenic potential of some constituents (notably β-asarone in certain varieties). Therefore, while the use of calamus rhizome for dry cough is solidly rooted in traditional practice, scientific substantiation is currently weak.

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