Acorus

Acorus, a small genus of plants of the Aroid family, of which Acorus Calamus, the Sweet Sedge, is commonly naturalised in Europe. The starchy underground stem, or rhizome, of this plant contains a fragrant oil, said to be tonic and stimulant and of use in ague and dyspepsia. It is used for hair-powder, as a candy, in aromatic vinegar, in herb-beers, gin and snuff, and for chewing to clear the voice. It was formerly cultivated in Norfolk, but is now imported from South Russia.