Calamus Seeds
Centaurea cyanus
 
An ancient herb of the East, Calamus has been used for over two thousand years by the Moso sorcerers of Yunnan, China, and in Ayurvedic medicine for bronchitis, asthma and fevers. In China it is ingested to relieve constipation and swelling. Mentioned in the Bible in the Book of Exodus, Calamus was one of the ingredients of an ointment Moses was commanded to rub on his body when approaching the tabernacle. Sweet Flag is known for its beneficial effects on the stomach, helps to relieve dyspepsia, gastritis and hyperacidity. It is a mild sedative. Chewing on the dried root is said to help smokers kick the habit. Calamus root can be used in potpouris as a fixative instead of orris root.
We really like to grow Calamus near our salmon pond, where the yellow iris like flowers create a beautiful backdrop in summer months.