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🌿

Vacha / Sweet Flag / Calamus

Acorus calamus

Neuroprotectivepreliminary evidence

Beta-asarone from Vacha shows anti-tumour activity against colon, lung, and brain cancer cells through PI3K/Akt pathway inhibition. Vacha is Ayurveda's primary brain herb — used to counter chemotherapy-induced cognitive decline ('chemo brain'). Its anti-inflammatory effects are particularly relevant for brain tumours. Note: North American calamus (Acorus calamus var. americanus) is safer with lower beta-asarone.

Medicinal Properties

NeuroprotectiveAnti-tumourAnti-inflammatoryCognitive enhancerAntimicrobial
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Cancer Types Studied

ColonLungBrain

Recommended Dosage

250–500 mg dried rhizome powder under Ayurvedic supervision.

Preparations

Ayurvedic Supervision Only

Vacha is used under qualified Ayurvedic physician guidance. Common form: 250–500 mg root powder with honey or ghee.

NIH / PubMed Research

PMID 23954451Beta-asarone from Acorus calamus and cancer

Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.

Cautions & Interactions

  • European tetraploid calamus contains high beta-asarone — potential carcinogen
  • Use North American or Indian varieties under supervision
  • FDA bans calamus as food additive in USA due to beta-asarone concerns
  • Avoid in pregnancy

Related Herbs

🌸

Shankhapushpi / Blue Pea Vine

Neuroprotective

preliminary
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Bacopa / Brahmi (Water Hyssop)

Neuroprotective

moderate
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Ginkgo Biloba / Maidenhair Tree

Neuroprotective

moderate
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Lion's Mane Extended / Yamabushitake

Neuroprotective

moderate

Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before use.