Overview of the efficacy and functions of Jiujie Acorus

Acorus calamus is a traditional Chinese medicinal material mainly produced in Shanxi, Henan and other places in my country. It is named after its obvious internodes in its rhizome. Its effect is based onRejuvenating the mind, resolving dampness and harmonizing the stomach, calming the mind and improving the mindMainly, secondlyExpelling wind, removing dampness, detoxifying and reducing swelling. In clinical TCM, it is often used to treat dizziness and forgetfulness caused by phlegm and dampness blocking the clearing of the orifices, or epigastric distension caused by spleen and stomach dampness. Modern research has also found that it contains volatile oils, flavonoids and other ingredients, which have a certain regulatory effect on the nervous system and digestive system. The following will explain its main functions, auxiliary functions and precautions for use.

Refresh one's mind and improve mental abnormality

nine-section calamusenlightenmentIt is widely used in TCM emergencies. The ancients believed that its aroma is refreshing and can "open the nine orifices" and is suitable for diseases such as confusion and epileptic seizures caused by phlegm-dampness or heat evil. For example, "Compendium of Materia Medica" records that it "treats strokes silently and relieves heart qi" and is often combined with musk and tulip. Modern pharmacology shows that its volatile oil components (such as β-asarone) can pass through the blood-brain barrier, mildly excite the central nervous system, and help improve coma or drowsiness. It should be noted that this type of use must strictly follow the doctor's advice and avoid self-medication.

Removing dampness and regulating the function of the spleen and stomach

nine-section calamusDehumidifyIt is particularly effective against dampness in the spleen and stomach. When the humidity is heavy in summer, loss of appetite, abdominal distension and stuffiness are common. It can be used together with Atractylodes and Magnolia officinalis to promote the secretion of digestive juices and relieve symptoms of dampness. Folks also use calamus soaked in wine to drive away cold and dampness. However, alcohol may weaken the efficacy of the medicine. It is recommended to use decoction or pill powder instead. In addition, its volatile oil has a two-way regulating effect on gastrointestinal smooth muscle, which can relieve abdominal pain in mild cramps. However, excessive dosage may cause nausea, so the dosage needs to be controlled within 3-6 grams (dry product).

The auxiliary effect of calming the nerves and dispelling wind

In terms of calming the nerves, Acorus calamus is often combined with Polygala and Poria cocos to treat insomnia and dreaminess caused by deficiency of the heart and spleen. Its mechanism may be related to the regulation of 5-HT levels in the brain. AndExpelling wind and removing dampnessIt is mostly used for joint pain. External application or fumigation can reduce the swelling and pain of rheumatoid arthritis, but the effect is weaker than that of Duhuo, Clematis and other special medicines. It should be noted that its volatile oil is irritating to the skin, and those with allergies should use external remedies with caution. Pregnant women and those with yin deficiency and excessive fire (such as long-term dry mouth and night sweats) should also avoid using it to prevent heat from damaging yin.

Summary and reasonable use suggestions

Taken together, the core value of Jiujie Acorus lies inWake up and wake upandRemoving dampness and strengthening the spleen, other effects need to be enhanced through compatibility. When using it, you need to distinguish between raw products and processed products - raw products have a strong resuscitation effect, while vinegar-based products are more suitable for digestion. Although modern research has confirmed the activity of some of its components, a standardized extraction protocol has not yet been formed, so traditional usage is still the main method. It is recommended to use it under the guidance of a physician and avoid taking it with central nervous system depressants (such as sedatives). Finally, I would like to remind you that the market often confuses Acorus calamus and Acorus nine-segmented. The latter has better curative effect. When purchasing, you need to distinguish the number of rhizome nodes and the intensity of the aroma.

Quote sources:1. "Chinese Materia Medica" (edited by the State Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine) 2. Li Shizhen's "Compendium of Materia Medica" Volume 14 3. Modern pharmacological data refer to "Chinese Materia Medica" Issue 5, 2020