Abstract:
Acorus calamus exhibits polyploidy and phytochemical coruyosition also depends upon the ploidy. Scented leaves and rhizomes have been traditionally used m Ayurveda medicine for bronchitis, cough, fever, asthma and digestive problems. Pharmacological studies have revealed that Acopus calamus and its major constituents, particularly P-asarone and a-asarone possesses a wide range of amazing pharmacological activities such as anticonvulsant, acetylcholinesterase inhibitory, memory enhancing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, sedative, CNS depressant, behavioral changes anticancer, cardiovascular, cytoprotective, antidiarrheal, and immunosuppressive activities. In addition to the above-mentioned pharmacological actions, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anthelmintic and insecticidal activities are also reported.