Chemistry and biological activity of Bach (Acorus calamus).

摘要

The recent developments taken place in the field of chemistry and biology of the plant Acorus calamus is the subject matter of the present review. Acorus calamus is an aromatic herb popularly known as Sweet Flag (Bach) belonging to family Araceae. Chemical examination of A. calamus has resulted in isolation of several sesquiterpenes, essential oil, aromatic compounds, steroids, etc. The dried pleasant smelling rhizome and its essential oil are used medicinally as carminative, analgesic, hypertensive, respiratory, depressant, antithermic, tranquilizer, antiasthmatic and stimulant to central nervous system as nervine tonic.