Calamus and Ginger By Hawaii Pharm Overview & Drug Interactions

Calamus is a grass-like plant commonly mostly commonly found in Eastern Europe in swamps or along the banks of waterways. Calamus has traditionally been used in both Ayurdevic and Chinese medicine for a number of ailments, including digestive disorders including colic, ulcers, gastritis, flatulence, diarrhea, intestinal infections, dyspepsia, and anorexia. It is also used to induce vomiting, induce sweating, improve memory and for the treatment of inflammatory disorders. The FDA does not allow calamus in food due research showing it has carcinogenic effects, likely due to the beta-asarone content, which can vary heavily depending on the species.

Ginger is a spice native to Asia and part of the Zingiberaceae family. It has a pungent, spicy flavor and is often used to add flavor to dishes and drinks. Ginger has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties. It is commonly used to treat nausea, motion sickness, and other digestive issues. Ginger is also sometimes used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Ginger supplements generally standardize several compounds found in the root, and are often labeled as containing a certain amount of 'ginger root extract'.