Rat Root (Acorus calamus)

AKA: sea sledge, flag root, myrtle grass, sweet myrtle, sweet rush, etc.

Climate:

• grows in moist soil
• Can be found in shallow marshes, rivers, or ponds
• Will not grow in the shade, needs sunlight

Appearance:

• A reed-like perennial
• Can grow to 1 meter tall

Properties:

• A water plant
• Strong scent, bitter taste
• Seeds ripen from July to August
• Flowers May through July
• Abortifacient
• Anodyne (relives pain)
• Anthelmintic
• Aphrodisiac (used in some love potions)
• Carminative
• Counters the side effects of hallucinogens
• Diuretic
• Hallucinogen
• Laxative
• Otalgic (cures ear aches)
• Sedative
• CANNOT be used on pregnant women

Uses:

• Flooring
• Nutmeg, Cinnamon and Ginger substitute (though not for long, frequent uses)
• Mild tonic
• Digestive potions
• Calming potions
• Strengthens mind and stomach
• Helps those recovering from strokes
• Cures toothaches, burns and eye disease
• When powdered, it clears coughs and vocal strains
• Date-Rape Drug