Sweet flag (Acorus calamus) belongs to the arum family. The plant looks like reed, it is common throughout North America, Europe and Asia, where it grows on riverbanks and in swamps. After the harvest the roots are dried. It has been used as a flavouring of liquors and for many other (healing) purposes. Calamus is considered a stimulant, a mouth wash, painkiller, a remedy against asthma and bronchitis, a rejuvenation tonicum and it has been used to increase potency and memory, as well as for for plain enjoyment.
The major component of sweet flag is asarone, which can be purified into the amphetamine TMA-2.

Effects

The most important effect of the herb is that it is stimulating and cheering and it has a positive effect on the libido.
A small dose has a slight euforic effect, higher dosages may cause a hallucinating effect. Dr. Shulgin describes TMA-2 in his book 'Pihkal' as comparable to mescaline, though without the colour-intensification.

Usage

Chewing sweet flag has a refreshing effect on your breath. When you make tea of it, use 2 to 5 teaspoons, depending on the desired effect.

For a light euphoric, stimulating effect, use 1 or 2 teaspoons, for hallucinations use 4 to 5 teaspoons.
For a stimulating effect soak 20 grams (aprox. 1 oz) calamus in half a litre water and boil it for a while. Sift it and drink a few cups. On an empty stomach it has a stronger effect. For a strong consiousness expanding effect you can raise the dosage.

Use 1 teaspoon of powder mixed with a glass of juice.

You can combine calamus with guarana, kolanut and other stimulating herbs.

Warning