ACORUS CALAMUS LINN.): a VALUABLE MEDICINAL PLANT Kour Gagan Deep1*, Sharma AK2, Dash Sanghamitra3, Bal Nigamanand1 *1P.G
Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research, 2014;2(8):1-11 ISSN: 2322 - 0910
International Journal of Ayurveda and Pharma Research Review Article
VACHA (ACORUS CALAMUS LINN.): A VALUABLE MEDICINAL PLANT Kour Gagan deep1*, Sharma AK2, Dash Sanghamitra3, Bal Nigamanand1 *1P.G. Scholar, 2Lecturer, Dept. of Dravyaguna, Rishikul State Ayurvedic College, Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India. 3Lecturer, Dept. of Rachna Sharir, MLR Ayurvedic College and hospital, Charkhi Dadri, Haryana, India. Received on: 28/11/2014 Revised on: 18/12/2014 Accepted on: 26/12/2014 ABSTRACT Last few decades have again shown a notable resurgence of interest in medicinal plants. The reason behind is the increasing awareness about the limitations of the synthetic chemotherapeutic agents. Now herbal medicines and natural products are in big demand all over the world. One of the important medicinal plant used in Ayurveda traditional medicine to treat different ailments and maintain health condition is Vacha (Acorus calamus Linn.). It is a herbaceous perennial belonging to family Araceae. Vacha is one of the most renowned herbs of the ancient Vedic seer as a rejuvenative for the brain and nervous system. Vacha stimulates the power of self expression and intelligence. Rhizome of Acorus calamus Linn. Contain calamediol, essential oil, tanning substances and vitamin - C. These constituents are valuable in a vast range of diseases. Vacha has a special potency as a nervine tonic. It is a very vigorous brain tonic, because it shows results in a very short time. It increases the overall memory of the person and strengthens the nervous system. Vacha is prescribed to people who have amnesia. Improving the memory is a quest on which human beings have embarked centuries ago. In almost all civilizations, there have been attempts to discover the best herbs for brain enhancement with minimum side- effects. Perhaps, Ayurveda wins the race in this. All the herbs Ayurveda uses for its brain tonics have minimum side-effects and are quite safe for the human beings. Western science is now warming up to these herbs and is looking upon them as effective supplements for the human brain. It works well in digestive ailments like flatulence, loss of appetite, distaste, abdominal dull pain and worms. Vacha relieves the phlegm, eases cough and asthma. It is also useful to reduce fever. It is also highly useful for the treatment of epilepsy and other mental ailments. KEYWORDS: Vacha, Acorus calamus Linn., Sweet flag, Brain tonic, Rasayana, Cough. INTRODUCTION Vacha (Acorus calamus Linn.) rhizomes indigenous to Central Asia and eastern Europe. It synonymously called sweet flag, sweet roots are has been used since time immemorial by the also known by the common names Golomi, inhabitants of these continents. Acorus calamusis Ugragandha, Vekhanda and Bach. Vacha has a one of the most renowned herbs used for mental special place in Ayurveda as it is a main Medhya diseases and diseases of the nervous system. In drug, which has the property of improving the Sanskrit, Vacha literally means speaking.[3] It is memory power and intellect. Poor memory, full of various pharmacological constituents like lower retention and slow recall are common cineol, copaene, cyperenone, cyperol, problems in today’s stressful and competitive cyperolone, kobusone, mustakone, sugenol, b- world. Age, stress, emotions are conditions that sitosterol etc.[4] Vacha is helpful to treat epilepsy, may led to memory loss, amnesia, anxiety, high mental ailments, chronic diarrhea, dysentery, blood pressure, dementia and to more ominous bronchial catarrh, intermittent and tumors. It threat like schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s also has the insecticidal, antifungal, antibacterial, diseases.[1] Vacha, Acorus calamus Linn, is an tranquilizing, antidiarrhoeal, antidyslipidemic, uncommon but widespread, semi-aquatic plant neuroprotective, antioxidant, anticholinesterase, of aquatic habitats in temperate to sub spasmolytic, vascular modulator.[5] It is useful in temperate regions.[2] It is an aromatic herb,
Available online at: http://ijapr.in Page 1 Kour Gagan deep et al. Vacha (Acorus Calamus Linn.): A Valuable Medicinal Plant preparation of some important formulations like BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION Vachadi churna, Vachadi ghrita, Vachavaleha etc. Vacha (Acorus calamus Linn.) is a tall, VERNACULAR NAMES perennial wetland monocot, 1-4 feet tall of the Vacha is commonly known as Araceae or Acoraceae family. It is an aromatic “Shadgrantha, Golomi, Ugragranthi, Sataparvika, marsh herb with creeping root stock. The Jatila” in Sanskrit, “Bach” in Hindi and Bengali, seemingly numerous plants seen above ground “Sweet flag” in English, “Agri-turki” in Persian, in a population probably arise from a single “Godavaj” in Gujarat, “Vaj” in Bombay, “Vekhand” plant connected by an extensive underground in Marathi, “Vasa” in Telugu, “Vashambu” in rhizome.[33] Tamil, “Vayambu” in Malayalam, “Baje” in RHIZOME: The root system consists of shallow, Kannada, “Ekhanda” in Konkan, “Vacha, Bacch” branching rhizomes that are stout and knobby. in Unani, “Bojho” in Nepali and “Shobu” in Tufts of basal leaves occur at intervals along Japanese. [6],[7] these rhizomes while coarse fibrous roots The plant Acorus calamus Linn. is known develop below. The plant multiplies by its as Vacha and Swaralu because it is a potent drug rhizomes. Rhizome is long indefinite branched, used for improving voice. Vacha is a semi- smooth, pinkish or pale green. Internally the aquatic herb having reddish brown (Aruna), rhizome is whitish pink in color and pleasantly hairy (Golomi, Lomashi, Jatila) and intense aromatic, smelling of citrus, although it has a smelling (Ugragandha) rhizome which has many bitter taste. nodes (Sadagrantha, Sataparvika). Vacha is LEAVES: The basal leaves are erect and sword highly beneficial in reducing body weight shaped, resembling Iris leaves. They are (Karshani), arousing consciousness (Bodhniya, flattened and smooth along the margins. The Smarniya), relieving colic (Shulaghni) and leaves are few and distichously alternate whose destroying organisms (Bhutanashani, size is between 0.7 and 1.7 cm wide with Rakshoghni). Vacha is regarded generally as average of 1 cm. The sympoidal leaf of Acorus auspicious (Mangalya) [8],[9] calamus is shorter than that of the vegetative CLASSICAL REFERENCE leaves. The leaf has a single prominent midvein Acharya Charaka has categorized Vacha and then on both sides slightly raised secondary in Lekhaniya[10], Arshoghna[11], Triptighna[12], veins and many, fine tertiary veins. The margin Asthapnopaga[13], Shirovirechana[14], is curly edged or undulate. Botanists distinguish Sanjnasthapana[15], Sitaprashamana between the Acorus species by the number of Mahakashaya[16]. Charaka enumerated Haimvati prominent leaf veins as Acorus calamus Linn. has [34] (Shweta Vacha) under Mulini Varga[17]. only one. In Sushruta samhita, Vacha has been FLOWERS: Plants are very rarely flower or set found in Pippalyadi[18], Mustadi[19] and Vachadi fruit, but when they do, the flowers are 3 to 8 cm gana[20]. long cylindrical in shape, greenish brown and covered in a multitude of rounded spikes. The Acharya Vagbhatta has included the inflorescence consists of a leaf-like spathe and a plant Vacha in Mustadi[21], Vachadi[22], spike-like spadix, produced from the middle of Vatsakadi[23], Haridradi[24], Chardana[25] and the spathe, that is densely covered with yellow Niruhana varga[26]. and green flowers. The spadix, at the time of VARIETIES OF VACHA expansion, can reach a length between 4.9 and Bhavamishra quoted 5 different varieties 8.9 cm. Flowers blossom in early to late summer of Vacha in his Nighantu as Vacha[27] (Acorus depending on the latitude. [28] calamus Linn.), Parasika vacha (Iris germanica FRUITS: The fruits are found to be small and [29] Linn.), Mahabhari Vacha (Alpinia galangal berry like with few seeds.[35] Willd.), Sthulagranthi[30] (Zingiber zerumbet DISTRIBUTION Rosc.ex. Smith) and Dvipantra vacha[31] (Smilax china Linn). Acorus calamus is a native of both North America and Eurasia. However some authorities Thakur Bulwant Singhji reported that regard it as an introduced species that was Paris polyphylla Sm, a white rhizome is sold in originally native to India, Central Asia and Dehradun as Safed Vacha. He identified it as the Eastern Europe.[36] It is cultivated throughout “Dudha vacha” and it is the Nepali variety.[32] India in the marshy tracts of Kashmir, Shirmaur (Himachal Pradesh), Manipur, and in Nagahills and in the Koratagere taluka of Karnataka state Available online at: http://ijapr.in Page 2 Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research, 2014;2(8):1-11 ISSN: 2322 - 0910 in peninsular India. The second fortnight of June PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITY is the best time for planting. It is a hard plant Methanolic extract of Acorus calamus found to grow in tropical and subtropical showed analgesic effect on the rat in a study climates.[37] done through the Writhing response and rat CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS caudal immersion method while the The dried rhizome of Acorus calamus anticonvulsant effect was studied through contain the yellow aromatic volatile oils having the Pentylenetetrazol-induced seizures asarone as a main constituent which contains method. The studies showed that Acorus the small quantity of sesquiterpenes and its calamus roots have significant anti- alcohols; the rhizome also contains the choline, inflammatory and anticonvulsant activity.[41] flavone, acoradin, galangin, acolamone, The anti spasmodic and antidiarrhoeal isocolamone and aerial parts of plant contains activity of Acorus calamus was studied. In the lutcolin-6,8 c-diglucoside.[38] study, jejunum was isolated from the rabbit The major chemical constituents of the and further effect of crude extract was essential oils of sweet flag are phenylpropanes, evaluated. It was found that plant extract monoterpenes, and thermolabile causes the spontaneous inhibition of high sesquiterpenoids. The pale yellow to pale brown K(+)induced contractions which resulted in volatile calamus oil has an odor described as spasmolytic activity which is mediated "woody-spicy with increasingly sweet after through the calcium channel blockade.[42] notes and great tenacity" that resembles "dried Peroxidase activity of leaves extract of milk or sweet leather, slightly creamy-nutty," Acorus calamus was evaluated. The leaf and has been compared to the fragrance of a extract protein of Acorus calamus was milk-truck or shoe-repair shop (Arctander purified through the chromatography and 1960). This characteristic aroma is derived from peak giving fractions were tested for the anti the chemical compound (Z,Z)-4, 7-decadienal.[2] fungal activity by gel filtration using Superose 12 10/300 GL column. Through The chemical constituents are of 67 leaves of the plant peroxidase enzyme hydrocarbons, 35 carbonyl compounds, 56 activity was observed in the lumen of the alcohols, eight phenols, two furans and four xylem and vessels.[43] oxido compounds also detected, in an alcohol Study of Acorus calamus was done for extract of A. calamus var. calamus, 243 volatile inducing neurotoxicity against acrylamide components, 45 of which were new records from for increasing the activity of corpus striatum sweet flag. Methyleugenol, cis-methylisoeugenol, while dopamine receptors decreased. These β-asarone, geranylacetate, β-farnesene, neurobehavioral changes are occurring by shyobunone, epishyobunone and isoshyobunone ACR (acrylamide) for the treatment of are the most abundant chemical compounds diseases with the Acorus calamus rhizome.[44] which are present in 20% of the essential oil. Effect of Acorus calamus on acetaminophen The other chemical components include α and γ- induced toxicity in rats for antihepatotoxic asarone, calamenene, asaronaldehyde, and anti oxidant activities was studied. It acorenone, calamenone, n-heptanic acid, was seen that the effect of ethanol extracted calanendiol, numerous sesquiterpenes, and Acorus calamus confer the hepatoprotective other compounds in the plant. and anti oxidant activities by biochemical This oil and asarone has a relaxing effect and pathological observations against on smooth muscle tissue. Tannins, starches, acetaminophen induced liver injury in mucin, soft gums and resins are also present in rats.[45] this plant. Lectins present in plant have Anticancer activity of Acorus calamus mitogenic action on mononuclear cells of human rhizomes was evaluated. In this study, hydro cells (macrophages of murine spleen). Lectins alcoholic extract of Terminalia chebula, have inhibitory effect on the growth of some rhizome of Acorus calamus and root of neoplastic cell lines from mice. Saponins showed Glycyrrhiza glabra was prepared and further effects against hyperlipdemia in rats. Especially their antiproliferative activity on anti cancer α and β- asarone are highly active in antioxidant, cell was studied. Results predict the fact that antilipidemic, antimicrobial, anticancer, all of these plant materials have significant [39],[40] immunosuppresive, antidiabetes activities. antiproliferative activity.[46]
Available online at: http://ijapr.in Page 3 Kour Gagan deep et al. Vacha (Acorus Calamus Linn.): A Valuable Medicinal Plant Anti cellular and immunosuppressive effect was completely diminished and the potential of ethanolic extract of Acorus normal status of paw was achieved when 25- calamus was evaluated. The ethanolic extract 75% acetone extract was tested against of Acorus calamus rhizome showed anti inflammation in male rat within 30 proliferative and immunosuppressive minutes.[51] properties. This extract causes the tumor One study showed that Acorus calamus necrosis which inhibits the proliferation of possesses the ability for preventing the mitogen, antigen stimulated peripheral development of FeCl induced blood mononuclear cells in humans, nitric epileptogenesis by modulating antioxidant oxide and interleukins-2.[47] enzyme; exhibit the potentiality of herb to be The methanol and acetone extract of Acorus developed as an effective anti epileptic drug. calamus leaves was evaluated for their CNS Through the various methods which is used activity in mice. They showed the for inducing the experimental epileptic spontaneous locomotors activity for models induces the recurrent seizures and immobility by time using through forced epileptic discharge similar to humans post timed swim test, diazepam induced sleeping traumatic epilepsy through generation of time and motor impairment assessment free radicals into sensorimotor.[52] using Rota rod for CNS depression/ analytic The effect of Acorus calamus on bronchial activity of ACME and ACAE in mice.[48] dilation which is mediated through multiple In vitro and in vivo releasing alpha pathways was studied. Crude extract of glycosidase inhibitory activity of ethyl Acorus calamus in the guinea pig tracheal acetate fraction of Acorus calamus was segments was more effective in the studied. The effects of serum glucose were carbachol response with the blockage of detected in the fasted and amylum calcium channels. In the crude extract of challenged normal mice. They used Acorus Acorus calamus the calcium channel blockers calamus extract for in vivo studies and found and phosphodiesterase in the hexane suppression in blood glucose level after the fraction has a novel combination which 2g/kg glucose loading in the normal mice. shows anti cholinergic and anti depressant Acorus calamus extract had the effect that provides the pharmacological hypoglycemic effects and glycosidase basis for various uses of Acorus calamus in inhibition and improves the postprandial airways disorders.[53] hyperglycemia and CVS complications.[49] The anti microbial and antifungal activity of The reversal neurotoxicity of Acorus calamus Acorus calamus rhizome and leaf was in mice was studied which is induced with evaluated. In this study, petroleum ether, the phenytoin and Phenobarbital. The chloroform, hexane and ethyl acetate extract administration of Acorus calamus at ED50 of rhizomes and leaves were used and it was dose of phenytoin markedly potentiated the found that ethyl acetate extract was highly anti convulsant activity of phenytoin. The effective in anti fungal and anti yeast activity. main reason is that the combination of The alpha and beta asarone is mainly Acorus calamus with phenytoin does not responsible for the antimicrobial activities show any significant effect on the PTZ further it was established that beta asarone (pentelynetetrazole) induced convulsions. has high anti microbial activity as compared From these studies they concluded that to the alpha asarone.[54] administration of Acorus calamus with In vitro and in vivo sensitizing activity of phenytoin and Phenobarbita showed the ethyl acetate fraction of Acorus calamuswas synergistic effect. Hence it is confirmed that evaluated. The consumption of glucose is the combined administration of Acorus mediated through the insulin which was calamus with phenytoin and phenobarbital detected in the rat skeletal muscle cells. It showed the better effect in epileptic has been concluded from the whole study treatment.[50] that the insulin sensitizing Acorus calamus The effect of acetone extract of Acorus extract has the potential to be used in the calamus in albino rat for their anti treatment of diabetes and cardio vascular inflammatory activity was studied. Anti complications without weight gain.[55] inflammatory activity was evaluated using In a study, methanolic and aqueous extract paw edema model induced by formaldehyde of Acorus calamus plant were used and injection in the male rat. The inflammatory further cytotoxic effect was studied. From
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whole study it was concluded that it might oxysporum. The fungus was effective against act against the cytotoxicity in time and the gram positive and gram negative micro concentration dependent manner.[56] organisms. An endophytic fungus was The preliminary and physicochemical isolated from the Acorus calamus rhizomes studies on the rhizome of Acorus calamus which was identified as Fusarium were done. It is perennial, semi aquatic, oxysporium. In this study phylogenetic tree smelly plant found in temperate and sub was generated with the use of maximum temperate zone and mainly used as anti parsimony method for the relation spasmodic, carminative and anthelmintic. establishment with F. oxysporum in the They mainly focused on the crude drug different forms. Plant is mainly prescribed as (Acorus calamus) which is useful in the the drug for anti cancer and anti microbial identification and control to adulteration of agents. This plant act as reservoir for some the raw drug. So they concluded that heavy microbes known as endophytes, which are metals and pesticide residue estimation and important bioactive metabolites for microbial contamination are essential for therapeutic use.[62], [63], [64] raw drugs and its formulation.[57], [58] The effect of Acrous calamus leaves extract In a study, the derivatives against fish was studied on dopaminergic system in mice pathogen Aeromonas hydrophila from Acorus for neuromodulatory effect. The effects of calamus residue were derived for showing methanol extract and acetone extract of the the antibacterial activity of the plant. plant leaves against the apomorphine (APM) Eighteen compounds were isolated from the induced stereotypy and haloperidol induced Acorus calamus which was then microtiter to catalepsy was found. The ACME and ACAE find out their inhibitory concentration. The (Acorus calamus methanol extract and antimicrobial potency of the substances was Acorus calamus acetone extract) ranked through bioautographic assays. Then administration potentiated the haloperidol the derivatives which are derived through induced catalepsy in mice. It was also found the isolation of plant has been predicted that the ACME and ACAE treatment at from the GC-MS, UV,1HNMR, 13CNMR, and various levels against the APM induced IR spectroscopy related to beta asarone. The catalepsy in mice significantly reversed the extracts of Acorus calamus have been found stereotypy.[65] to possess an anti bacterial activity. In a study, Pakistanian Acorus calamus was Alphaasarone in Acorus calamus has used and further its importance and stronger antibacterial property. However implementation as a biopesticide was beta asarone concentration varies markedly studied. It was proved that the essential oil among the oil from A. calamus of the Acorus calamus is safe as compared to varieties.[59],[60] the other commercial pesticides. This oil can The potential of Acorus calamus was also be safely used in the agriculture as well as in studied in biotechnology and pharmaceutical health sector. The essential oil of Acorus field. It was found that Acorus calamus is calamus has been tested on the cuts and widely used in Unani, Ayurveda and Local wounds and found that it was more effective Health Care Systems. It is used in the as compared to the other oils.[66] treatment of different ailments and as The leaf and rhizome part of Acorus Calamus insecticides, anti bacterial, anti fungal, anti is found to possess the antibacterial activity. oxidant etc. It belongs to the The methanolic extract of Acorus Calamus monocotyledons group which is used in the showed the inhibitory action against the medicinal plants during the Ancient and bacterial strains of Salmonella typhi, Vedic periods. Beta asarone present in the Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella herb is less carcinogenic which makes it pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus.[67] highly valuable in biotechnology and The efficacy of the Acorus calamus extract in pharmaceutical industries. Acorus calamus lowering serum cholesterol and triglycerides based markers play an important role of the effects has been proved on the serum lipids selection of desired germplasm.[61] of rats which already fed with an atherogenic The anti microbial activity of Acorus calamus diet. The alcoholic extract of Acorus calamus rhizomes was studied with the phylogenetic contains saponins which plays a role in placement of an endophyte fungus Fusarium hyperlipidemia. Saponins are also found to
Available online at: http://ijapr.in Page 5 Kour Gagan deep et al. Vacha (Acorus Calamus Linn.): A Valuable Medicinal Plant prevent the cholesterol absorption and In Suryavartta and Hemicrania, pressed snuff interferes with its entero hepatic circulation of Vacha and Pippali or Madhuka and honey and also increase its fecal excretion.[68] is useful.[78] The ethanolic extract of Acorus rhizome is According to Sushruta samhita, Vacha used as the antiulcer agent as they were cooked a hundred times with one drone found to inhibit the gastric secretion and (10.24 kg) of Ghee when given to a person , also shows the protection against the gastro that person obtains a life of five hundred duodenal mucosa injuries that were caused years and acts as a good Rasayana, it also by the pyloric ligation in rat.[69] cures cervical lymphadenitis, goitre, filariasis Ayurvedic Properties and Pharmacological and disorders of voice.[79] Effect Application of paste of Vacha and Devadaru According to Ayurveda Literature, Vacha is or Gunja is highly beneficial for alopecia.[80] Katu (pungent), Tikta (bitter) in Rasa (taste); Emesis induced with Vacha powder and Laghu (light), Tikshna (sharp) in Guna honey or Madanphala with Madhuka cures (properties); Ushna (hot) in Virya (potency) opthalmia neonatorum.[81] and Katu in Vipaka (metabolism). Vacha has a Use of Vacha with milk or ghee or oil for one special potency (Prabhava) as a nervine tonic month makes the person invincible for (Medhya). Due to these properties, it pacifies pathogenic agents and endowed the person Vata and Kapha. Pharmacological effects of with sharp intellect and sweet voice.[82] Vacha are Vamaka, Agnivardaka, Vacha, Hingu, Yashti, Tagara, Shirisha, Aadhmanahara, Shulaghna, Malvishodhak, Lashuna and Kushtha are pounded with Mutravishodhaka, Apsamarahara, goat’s urine and used as snuff and collyrium Unmadahara, Bhutaghna, Krimighna, in epilepsy and hysteria.[83] Samjanasthapana, Medya, Lekhana, Vrishya, If a person takes Vacha powder with honey Sugandhi.[70] keeping on diet of milk and rice, then chronic Vacha is fragrant, emetic, digestant, an and severe epilepsy of that person also gets appetizer, deflatulent and anti-epileptic in cure.[84] properties.[71] The paste of Vacha and Sarshapa is applied on inflammatory swelling of testis MEDICINAL USES (Orchitis).[85] Part medicinally used is rhizome. Milk added with water and Vacha should be In piles, the fumigation with Vacha with is taken in order to alleviate Udavarartta due helpful. to retention of urine.[86] Old ghee processed with Vacha, Brahmi juice, Vachadi churna made with Vacha, Haritaki, Kushtha and Shankhapushpi alleviates Hingu, Vid lavana, Kuth, Chitrak, Ajwayana insanity, inauspiciousness, epilepsy and and taken with honey or lukewarm water insinful conditions.[72] helps to cure colic.[87] Vacha mixed with honey or Lashuna with oil Vacha mixed with honey and jaggery should or Satavari with milk or juice of Brahmi is be given to the patients suffering from highly beneficial to cure epilepsy.[73] gastritis.[88] Water boiled with Vacha and Prativisha or The wound in the pinna of ear heals up by Musta and Parpata or Haridra and Shunthi applying Vacha powder after the ointment of should be given to the patient suffering from Kapitha mixed with oil.[89] diarrhoea.[74] 10 gm of Vacha powder should be taken with Vacha medicated Taila should be applied and honey and ghee for three days to cure Vacha fermented with warm pounched lump Apsamara (hysteria) and milk is used in the of Vacha and Shatapushpa should be used for diet.[90] curing Hemorrhoids.[75] Vacha is a brain tonic which promotes higher Vacha along with Devadaru, Musta, Shunthi, mental functions. It is an ideal herb for Ativisha and Haritaki fermented in Varuni (a mediators, students, musicians and all who type of wine) or seeds of Jyotishmati need deep focus and attention in their work. percolated in warm water is also beneficial Vacha penetrates deep into the brain tissues for hemorrhoids.[76] and scrapes toxins from the subtle channels Vacha, Vayastha, Golomi and Jatila should be in the mind and opens the nadis of the higher worn on the body of children seized by chakras. Vacha’s heating qualities stimulate Naigmesha graha.[77] the brain and increase alertness and focus. It
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significantly aids information absorption and Kumkuma and Pippali is used to augment the memory recall as it promotes cerebral labour pains.[92] circulation. It acts as a curative for memory Root of Vacha with Bhang and Ajowain in loss, and any attention deficit disorders.[91] equal parts are used as a fumigation to get Vacha is a subtle purificatory herb that has relieve in painful piles.[93] an affinity for the throat chakra and removes In Unani, it is mentioned that Vacha is hot 3 obstructions to clear expression. It clears the degree, dry 2 degree, cleans brain, throat of mucus and opens the lungs aphrodisiac, provides strength to sight, promoting fuller respiration. Used in cases of expels reeh, expels balgam, works as speech impediments, stuttering, cough and antipoisonous, cures paralysis, drops and cold, sinus congestion, nasal polyps.[91] nervous complaints, cold and cough. Vacha is Vacha acts as a remedy for mental stagnation given as antiperiodic in tertian fevers. In of all degrees. It awakens latent cerebral Asthma, Vacha is found useful when given in functions which when inactive can cause small doses of 10 grains and repeated every depression, grief, mental handicap, and post- two or three hours till relief is obtained. stroke symptoms.[91] Vacha is eaten freely during the prevalence Vacha is used both internally as well as of an epidemic as it is supposed to be an externally. In Rheumatism, Rheumatic fever antidote for several poisons including snake and inflamed joints, the paste is applied bite. In Croton poisoning, its powder mixed externally which alleviates the pain and with water is given to counteract the swelling.[92] poisonous effect. The root of Vacha burnt to The juice of Vacha instilled into ear mitigates cinder, mixed with coconut oil or castor oil the earache and tinnitus. The Nasya of Vacha and smeared over the abdomen relieves is salutary in headache, heaviness of head flatulent colic. Vacha is used as a diuretic in due to Kapha, unconsciousness, epilepsy and calculous affections and as an anthelminthic hysteria.[92] to expel worms in children. Root of Acorus The decoction of Vacha with Camphor is calamus with equal quantity of Asafoetida, effectively used for cleansing the wounds Atis, Pippali, Marich, Shunthi, Haritaki and and ulcers as it possesses the antibiotic Sonchal lavana are taken and this compound properties.[92] powder is highly beneficial in dyspepsia and The dry powder massage (Udvartana) of as a stimulant in low fever, epilepsy and Vacha is beneficial in Obesity to reduce the insanity. It is given in dosage of 20 to 60 subcutaneous fatty accumulations.[92] grains.[94] Internally, Vacha is valuable in vast range of Actins present in Vacha have been found diseases. It works well in digestive ailments beneficial in menstrual disturbance. [95] like flatulence, loss of appetite, distaste, Vacha is also much valued by Manipuris, abdominal dull pain and worms. In higher especially in the treatment of cough or sore dosage, it induces vomiting. The fresh lemon throats. For this purpose, a small piece is juice and fennel is an antidote for emetic chewed for a few minutes. Vacha is effects of Vacha. The powder of Vacha given commonly used to allay distressing cough. A with lukewarm salt water induces vomiting small piece of the dried root stock kept in the and relieves the phlegm, eases cough and mouth acts better than many cough lozenges. asthma. Vacha is also useful to reduce It produces warm sensation in the mouth fevers.[92] and a beneficial flow of saliva. In Ceylon, the Vacha siddha ghrita is an excellent nervine rootstock is used in bowel complaints. The tonic for children which improves memory, root is supposed by the Chinese to affect the reception as well as the speech. In slow heart and the lungs and to be beneficial for learning children, Vacha powder in small cancer. In general, it is taken as a restorative amount is recommended with honey for long for the body and spirits. In Constantinople, duration with great benefit.[92] the root of Vacha is eaten as a preventive Vacha is mild diuretic and hence, is against pestilence. The rhizome of Vacha can beneficial in dysuria and urinary stones, as also be used in the form of a tincture or an an adjunct. As it stimulates the uterine infusion (Moodeen Sheriff). In Udarshula; contractions, the combination of Vacha, Vacha, Sauvarchala, Hingu, Ativisha , Haritaki and Indrayava is given.[96]
Available online at: http://ijapr.in Page 7 Kour Gagan deep et al. Vacha (Acorus Calamus Linn.): A Valuable Medicinal Plant Diseases of mouth can be simply cured by enhancing the intellect. Vacha is used in vitiated keeping a nodular piece of Vacha in mouth conditions of Vata and Kapha, various GIT for day and night. In condition of Amajirna, troubles like dyspepsia, flatulence, emesis should be done with decoction of stomatopathy, helminthiasis; amenorrhea, Vacha added with salt. In rat poisoning, dysmenorrhea, nephropathy, calculi, stragury, Vacha taken with rice water in the morning hoarseness of voice etc. Essential oils of Vacha for three or seven days while keeping on has anti-spasmodic and carminative effect and wholesome diet counteracts the poison. In also used for treatment of Epilepsy, mental Heart diseases caused by Kapha, patient ailments, chronic diarrhea, dysentery, bronchial should be vomited with decoction of Vacha catarrh and tumours. The rhizome part of Acorus and Nimba.[97] calamus is also used to treat several diseases like IMPORTANT FORMULATIONS asthma and as a sedative. Native tribes used to Vachadi churna, Vachadi ghritta, Vachavleha, treat cough by making a decoction of the plant as Vachadi taila, Vachalashunadi taila, Saraswata a carminative and also for cholic. Vacha is also churna, Saraswatarishta, Manasmitra vataka, used in remittent fevers and ague by the native Chandraprabha vati, Khadiradi vati, Hinguvachadi doctors, and is held in high esteem as an churna, Lakshmivilasa rasa, Medhya rasayana.[4],[33] insectifuge, especially for fleas. The rhizome of Vacha can also be used in the form of a tincture SUBSTITUTES AND ADULTERANTS or infusion. Regular intake of Vacha with Ghritta Roots of Alpinia galanga Wild and Aconitum or Taila or milk serves the purpose of Rasayana species, known as Sugandha vacha and Akot vacha and boosts the immunity. So this plant Acorus respectively are sometimes erroneously supplied in calamus helps in treating different ailments place of Vacha. The commercial material especially involving various systems and enhances the that procured from North eastern regions is immunity and improves hoarseness of voice. So adulterated with the rhizomes of Costus speciosus further studies must be carried out to explore [33] which are odourless and brownish in colour. some other benefits of Vacha.
RESEARCH STUDIES REFERNCES Alpha and beta asarones exhibited 1. Debjit Bhowmik, Chiranjib, Pankaj Tiwari, K. spasmolytic action on isolated Guinea pig K. Tripathi1 and K. P. SampathKumar. [98] trachea and ileum. Traditional Indian memory enhancer herbs Cis-asarone showed anti fungal activity and their medicinal importance. Scholars [99] against Helmintho-sporium oryzae. Research Library, Annals of Biological Acorus calamus shows neuroprotective Research, 2010; 1: 41- 46. effect against stroke and chemically induced 2. Motley, Timothy J. (University of Hawaii at neurodegeneration in rats. Specifically, it Manoa, Department of Botany, 3190 Maile has protective effect against acrylamide Way, Honolulu,H I 96822-2279). The [44] induced neurotoxicity. Ethnobotany of Sweet flag, ACORUS Both roots and leaves of Acorus calamus CALAMUS (ARACEAE). Economic Botany have shown antioxidant, antimicrobial and 1994; 48(4):397-412. [54] insecticidal activities. 3. https://herbtime.wordpress.com/2010/02/ Acorus calamus may prove to be an effective 10/vacha-acorus-calamus/ (Accessed on control measure against cattle tick, 10/11/14) [43] Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. 4. Dr. J.L.N Sastry, Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. 2, A recent study showed that beta-asarone Forward by Prof. K.C. Chunekar, Varnasi: isolated from Acorus calamus oil inhibits Chaukhambha Orientalia; Year 2005.p.545 adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells and thus 5. S. Phongpaichit, N. Pujenjob, V. [100] reduces lipid accumulation in fat cells. Rukachaisirikul & M. Ongsakul., CONCLUSION Songklanakarin J. Sci.Technol., 2005; 27. In the present era, herbs are being 6. Dr. K.M. Nadkarni, Indian Materia Medica, rediscovered, as people around the world seek a Vol. 1, Second edition, Revised and enlarged healthier and more natural life style and Vacha is by A.K. Nadkarni, Publisher Bombay Popular one of the important herbal drug. Acorus Prakashan; Year 2005.p.35 calamus is a medicinal plant used for the 7. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acorus_calamus treatment of various diseases and possess the (Accessed on 21/10/14) property of improving the memory power and
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8. Sharma Priya Vrat, Namarupajnanam, of Acorus calamus. Journal of the American Satyapriya Prakashan Varanasi, 2000 ; p- Pharmaceutical Association 45:655-656. 116 35. www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Sw 9. Dr. J.L.N Sastry, Ayurvedokta Oushadha eet%20Flag.html (Accessed on 28/10/14) Niruktamala, Varnasi: Chaukhambha 36. R. Balakumbahan, K. Rajamani & K. Orientalia, Year 2001; p.95-96 Kumanan., Journal of Medicinal Plants 10. Charak Samhita, Prof. K.R. Srikantha Research., 2010; 4(25), 2740. Murthy, Chaukhamba Orientalia, Varanasi. 37. www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plan Print: 2004; Vol.1 - Sutra sthana and Nidana ts/aweetflag.htm (Accessed on 29/10/14) sthana; p.77 38. A.E. Raja, M. Vijayalakshmi & G. Devalarao., 11. Ibid; pp.79 Research J. Pharm and Tech., 2009 2 (2). 12. Ibid; pp.79 39. http://bsienvis.nic.in/medi.htm#Acorus 13. Ibid; pp.82 calamus (Accessed on 2/11/14) 14. Ibid; pp.82 40. http://www.sigmaaldrich.com/life- 15. Ibid; pp.87 science/nutrition-research/learning- 16. Ibid; pp.86 center/plantprofiler/acorus-calamus.html 17. Charaka Samhita, Prof. Priyavrat Sharma, (Accessed on 2/11/14) Chaukhamba Orientalia, Varanasi. Print: 41. Jayaraman, R.T., T. Anitha and V.D. Joshi, 2004; Vol.1 (Sutra sthana to Indriya 2010.Analgesic and Anti convulsant effects sthana); p.9 of Acorus calamus roots in mice. Int. J. 18. Sushruta Samhita, Prof. K.R. Srikantha Pharm. Tech. Res., 2(1): 552-555. Murthy, Chaukhamba Orientalia, Varanasi. 42. Gilani, A.U., A.J. Shah, M. Ahmad and F. Print: 2004; Vol.1 (Sutra Sthana, Nidana Shaheen, 2006. Antispasmodic effect of Sthana and Sharira Sthana); p. 268 Acorus calamus is mediated through 19. Ibid; pp. 272 calcium channel blockade, Phytotherapy 20. Ibid; pp. 269 Res., 20(12): 1080-4. 21. Ashtangahrdayam of Vagbhata, Translated 43. Ghosh, M., 2006. Antifungal Properties of by Kaviraja Atrideva Gupta, Edited by Haem Peroxidases from Acorus calamus, Vaidya Yadunandana Upadhyaya, Ann. Bot., 98(6): 1145-1153. Chowkhamba Prakashan, Varanasi. Reprint: 44. Shukla, P.K., V.K. Khanna, M.M.Ali, S.S. 2011; p.144 Handa and R.C. Srimal, 2002. Protective 22. Ibid; pp.143 effect of Acorus calamus against Acrylamide 23. Ibid; pp. 143 induced neurotoxicity, Phytother Res., 24. Ibid; pp. 143 16(3): 256-60. 25. Ibid; pp. 139 45. Palani, S., S. Raja, R.P. Kumar, D. 26. Ibid; pp.140 Venkadesan, K. Devi, A. Sivaraj and B.S. 27. Bhavaprakasha Nighantu of Shri Kumar, 2009. Therapeutic efficacy of Anti Bhavamisra, Commentary by Prof. K.C. hepatotoxic and anti antioxidant activities Chunekar, Edited by Late Dr. G.S. Pandey, of Acorus calamus on acetaminophen Chaukhambha Bharati Academy, Varanasi. induced toxicity in rat, Int. J. Int. Biol., 7(1): Reprint: 2013; p.42 39-44. 28. Ibid; pp. 43 46. Gaidhani, S.N., G.S. Lavekar, A.S. Juvekar, S. 29. Ibid; pp. 44 Sen, A. Singh and S. Kumar, 2009. in vitro 30. Ibid; pp. 45 anti cancer activity of standard extracts 31. Ibid; pp. 46 used in Ayurveda, activity, Pharmacog. 32. Dr. J.L.N Sastry, Dravyaguna Vijnana, Vol. 2, Mag., 5(20): 425-429. Forward by Prof. K.C. Chunekar, Varnasi: 47. Mehrotra, S., K.P. Mishra, R. Maurya, C.C. Chaukhambha Orientalia; Year 2005.p.545 Srimaln, V.S. Yadav, R. Pandey and V.K. 33. Prof. D. Shanth Kumar Lucas, Dravyaguna Singh, 2003. Anticellular immunosup- Vijnana, Vol, 2, Varanasi: Chaukhambha pressive properties of ethanolic extract of Visvabharti, Reprint: Year 2013.p.436 Acorus calamus rhizome, Int. 34. Agarwal, S. L., P. C. Dandiya, K. P. Singh, and Immunopharmacol., 3(1): 53-61. R. B.Arora. 1956. A note on the preliminary 48. Pandy, V., N. Jose and H. Subhash, 2009. CNS studies of certain pharmacological actions activity of methanol and acetone extract of
Available online at: http://ijapr.in Page 9 Kour Gagan deep et al. Vacha (Acorus Calamus Linn.): A Valuable Medicinal Plant Acorus calamus leaves in mice, J. Pharmacol. and anthelmintic compound from Acorus Toxicol.,4(2): 79-86. calamus, S.A.J. Bot., 68: 31-35. 49. Si, M.M., J.S. Lou, C.X. Zhou and J.N. Shen, 61. Mittal, N., H.S. Ginwal, V.K. Varshney, 2009. 2010. Insulin Releasing and glucosidase Pharmaceutical and Biotechnological inhibitory activity of ethyl acetate fraction Potential of Acorus calamus Linn.: An of Acorus calamus in vitro and in vivo, J. Indigenous Highly Valued Medicinal Plant Ethnopharmacol., 128(1): 154- 159. Species, Pharmacog Rev., 3(5): 93-103. 50. Yende, S.R., U.R. Harle, V.V. Bore, A.O. Bajaj, 62. Barik, B.P., K. Tayung, P.N. Jagadev and S.K. K.K. Shroff and Y.D. Vetal, 2009. Reversal of Dutta, 2010. Phylogenetic placement of an neurotoxicity induced cognitive impairment endophytic fungus Fusarium oxysporium associated with phenytoin and isolated from Acorus calamus with Phenobarbital by Acorus calamus in mice. J. Antimicrobial activity, Euro. J. Biol. Sci., Herbal Med. Toxicol., 3(1): 111-115. 2(1): 8-16. 51. Lad, Y.H., K.V. Waghmare, K.N. Methe, S.V. 63. Cragg, G.M., D.J. Newman and K.N. Snader, Kasabeand A.A. Kanase, 2010. Anti 1997. Natural Products drug discovery and inflammatory effect of Acetone extract of Development, J. Natural. Prod., 60(1): 52- Acorus calamus in albino rats, http://www. 60. faqs.org/periodicals/201001. 64. Bacon, C.W. and J.F. White, 2000. Microbial 52. Pradhan, S.N., K. Ray, R. Hazra and R.D. endophytes, (Marcel Decker, Inc. New Ghua, 2007. Inhibitory role of Acorus York), pp: 199-233. calamus in ferric chloride induced 65. Prabhu, K.V., T. George, R.V. Kumar and J. epileptogenesis in rat, Hum. Exp. Toxicol., Nancy, 2009. Neuromodulatory effect of 27(12): 947-953. Acorus calamus leaves extract dopaminergic 53. Jabbar, A. and A. Hassan, 2010. system in mice, Int J.Pharm Tech. Res., 1(4): Bronchodilatory effect of Acorus calamus 1255-1259. (Linn.) is mediated through multiple 66. Tariq, R.M., S.M.H. Naqvi, M.I. Chaudhary pathways, J. Ethnopharmacol.,131(2): 471- and A. Abbas, 2010. Importance and 477. Implementation of essential oil of 54. Devi, S.A. and D. Ganjewala, 2009. Pakistanian Acorus calamus Linn. As a Antimicrobialactivity of Acorus Calamus (L.) Biopesticide, Pak. J. Bot., 42(3): 2043-2050. rhizome and leaf extract, Acta Biologica 67. K. Pokharel, B.R. Dhungana, K.B. Tiwari & Szegediensis, 53(1): 45-49. R.B. Shahi., Antibacterial Activities of Some 55. Wu, H.S., D.F. Zhu and C. Zhou, 2009. Indigenous Medicinal Plants of Nepal, Insulinsensitizing activity of ethyl acetate http://kiranbabutiwari.blogspot.com/2008 fraction of Acorus calamus L. in vitro and in /07/antibacterial-of-some-html. vivo, J. Ethnopharmacol., 123(2): 288-92. 68. S.R. Parab & S.A. Mengi., Fitoterapia., 2002, 56. Rajkumar, V., G. Guha, R.A. Kumar, L. 73, 451. Mathew, 2009. Evaluation of cytotoxic 69. A.E. Raja, M. Vijayalakshmi & G. Devalarao., potential of Acorus calamus rhizome, Research J. Pharm and Tech., 2009 2 (2). Ethnobotanical Leaflets, 7: 832- 39. 70. Shri Bhava Mishra, Bhava Prakasha 57. Meena, A.K., M.M. Rao, A. Singh and S. Nighantu, Translated by Prof. K.R. Srikantha Kumari, 2010. Physicochemical and Murthy, Vol. 1, Varanasi: Chaukhambha Preliminary Phytochemical studies on the krishnadas academy, Year 2004.p.175. Rhizome of Acorus calamus, Int. J. Pharm 71. Prof. D. Shanth Kumar Lucas, Dravyaguna and Ph’ceutical Sci., 2(2): 130-131. Vijnana, Vol, 2, Varanasi: Chaukhambha 58. Sangwar, S., S. Shanker, R.S. Sangwan and S. Visvabharti, Reprint: Year 2013.p.436. Kumar, 1998. Plant derived products as 72. Charaka Samhita of Agnivesha refined and antimutagens, Phytother Res., 12(6): 389- annotataed by Charaka and redacted by 399. Dridhabala, edited by Prof. Priyavrat 59. Bhuvneshwari, R. and C. Balasundaram, Sharma, Vol. 2, Varanasi: Chaukhambha 2009. Antibacterial activity of Acorus Orientalia, Print: 2005 Chikitsa sthana; calamus and some of its derivatives against p.174. fish pathogen Aeromonas hydrophila, J. Med. 73. Ibid; pp. 177 plants Res., 3(7): 538-547. 74. Ibid; pp. 324 60. Mcgaw, L., A.K. Jager and V.J. Staden, 2002. 75. Ibid; pp.230 Isolation of Beta asarone, an antibacterial 76. Ibid; pp. 258
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77. Sushruta Samhita, Translated by Prof. K.R. Translated by Dr. Nirmal Saxena, Varanasi: Srikantha Murthy, Vol. 3, Varanasi: Chaukhambha Sanskrit Series Office. Chaukhambha Orientalia, Print: 2004. p. 91. www.dharmonyherbs.com/vacha (Accessed 166 on 7/11/ 14) 78. Ibid; pp. 141 92. Indian medicinal plants, forgotten healers 79. Sushruta Samhita, Translated by Prof. K.R. by Dr. Prakash Paranjpe, Delhi: Srikantha Murthy, Vol. 2, Varanasi: Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan, Year Chaukhambha Orientalia, Print: 2004. P.265 2005.p.271-273 80. Astangahridayam composed by Vagbhata, 93. Dr. Anil K. Dhiman, Medicinal plants of Edited by Bhisagacharya Harisastri Uttaranchal state, Varanasi: Chaumbha Paradakara Vaidya, Introduction by Prof. Sanskrit Series Office.p.162 P.V. Sharma, Varanasi: Chaukhambha 94. Dr. K.M. Nadkarni, Indian Materia Medica, Orientalia, Print: 2005; p. 862 Vol. 1, Second edition, Revised and enlarged 81. Ibid; pp. 808 by A.K. Nadkarni, Publisher Bombay 82. Ibid; pp. 938 Popular Prakashan; Year 2005.p.36 83. Chakradatta, Edited and Translated by Prof. 95. www.ayushveda.com/herbs/acorus- Priyavrata Sharma, Varanasi: Chaukhambha calamus.htm (Accessed on 12/11/14) Publishers, Print: 2002; p. 179 96. Kirtikar K.R. and Basu B.D., Indian Medicinal 84. Ibid; pp.180 Plants, Edited by E. Blatter, J.F. Caius and 85. Ibid; pp. 340 K.S. Mhaskar, Vol. 4, Dehradun: 86. Bhavaprakash of Shri Bhavamisra by International book distributors; Year Bhisagratna Pandit Shri Brahma Sankara 1994.p.2626-2628 Misra, Part-2, Varanasi: Chaukhamba 97. Priya Vrat Sharma, Classical Uses of Sanskrit Sansthan; p.335 Medicinal Plants, Varanasi: Chaukhamba 87. Gadanigraha of Vaidya Sodhala by Shri Visvabharti, Reprint: 2004; p.335 Indradeva Tripathi, Edited by Shri Ganga 98. Chem. Abstr. 1983, 99, 64238k Sahaya Pandeya, Part- 2, Varanasi: 99. Ind. Perfum. 1990, 34, 199 Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthan, Reprint: 100. Meng-Hwan Lee, Yun-Yu Chen, Jung-Wei 2005; p. 572 Tsai, Sheue-Chi Wang, Takashi Watanabe 88. Gadanigraha of Vaidya Sodhala by Shri and Ying-Chieh Tsai, Inhibitory effect of β- Indradeva Tripathi, Edited by Shri Ganga asarone, a component of Acorus calamus Sahaya Pandeya, Part- 3, Varanasi: essential oil, on inhibition of adipogenesis Chaukhamba Sanskrit Sansthan, Reprint: in 3T3-L1 cells. Food Chemistry Volume 2005; p. 921 126, Issue 1, 1 May 2011, Pages 1–7. 89. Ibid; pp. 61 doi:10.1016/j.foodchem.2010.08.052 90. Vangasena Samhita or Chikitsasara sangraha of Vangasena, Edited and
Cite this article as: *Address for correspondence Kour Gagan deep, Sharma AK, Dash Sanghamitra, Bal Dr.Kour Gagan deep Nigamanand. Vacha (Acorus Calamus linn.): a Valuable Medicinal P.G. Scholar Plant. Int. J. Ayur. Pharma Research. 2014;2(8):1-11. Dept. of DravyaGuna Source of support: Nil, Conflict of interest: None Declared Rishikul State Ayurvedic College Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India. Email: [email protected] Ph: +918439135965
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