Rat Root

Botanical: Acorus americanus

Family: Arecaceae (arum/palm) - Acoraceae (sweet flag)

Other common names: Calamus, Sweet Flag, Sweet Grass, Sweet Root, Sweet Rush, Sweet Calomel, Sweet Cane, Sweet Myrtle, Myrtle Grass, Myrtle Sedge, Cinnamon Sedge, Muskrat Root, Pine Root, Gladdon, Flagroot, Beewort

American Rat Root* has been used for centuries as an expectorant and an anesthetic. 

Rat Root is used extensively in Native American medicine, especially in the northern latitudes, as a calmative, brain tonic and a digestive aid.

*Note: The B-asarone content in the essential oil of an Asian variety of the species is thought to be carginogenic and excluded from the American species, but because the USFDA labeled all varieties of Acorus calamus (sometimes also called Sweet Flag and Calamus) as unsafe in 1968, further research has been discouraged with regard to the herb's many historic applications. Thus, it is always recommended that any use of Rat Root be conducted only under the care of a qualified health care provider.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:
Rat Root is considered by the Chinese to have antiarrhythmic, hypotensive, vasodilatory, antitussive, antibacterial and expectorant properties.  Rat Root has been historically used for lack of mental focus, stomach problems, acidity and as an aid to stop smoking tobacco.  Rat Root has been shown to be of low toxicity in animals, and adverse reactions are rare. Though recent studies have revealed the presence of B-asarone, a carcinogen, the American variety is considered superior to the European species, because it appears to lack this ingredient.  Native Americans would chew the root while running long distances to increase endurance and stamina, and they also used it as an anesthetic for toothache and headaches.  Externally, Rat Root is added to the bath to quiet the nerves and induce a state of tranquility.  Tincture of Rat Root is useful as a parasiticide when directly, and frequently, applied to lice and scabies infestations. Rat Root does have emmanagogic properties and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) capsules, one (1) to two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Pregnant and nursing women should not use Rat Root, as it is considered a uterine stimulant.  Overuse (many times the recommended dosage) should be avoided, as it may cause vomiting and further serious problems. Also, it may be harmful if consumed for an extended time period.  Great caution should be exercised with the use of this herb, as it is not recommended for internal use according to FDA Guidelines.  The B-asarone content in the essential oil of an Asian variety of the species is thought to be carginogenic and excluded from the North American species, but because the FDA labeled all varieties of Acorus calamus as unsafe in 1968, further research has been discouraged with regard to the herb's many historic applications.  Thus, it is highly recommended that any use of Rat Root be conducted only under the care of a qualified health care provider.

Capsule Information:
Our Rat Root supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" Capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.

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