Acorus calamus L.
Common Name : Calamus/Sweet flag
Botanical Name : Acorus calamus L.
Source : Wild crafted
Method of extraction : The essential oil is obtained by steam distillation of the dried comminuted rhizomes of Acorus calamus L.
Organoleptic Properties
Appearance :Slightly viscous liquid
Color :Yellow to yellowish brown
Aroma :Warm woody-spicy
Physico-chemical Properties
Specific gravity : 1.0695 to 1.0795 at 23º C
Optical rotation : [-] 0.2º to [-] 0.5º at 23º C
Refractive index : 1.5335 to 1.5589 at 23º C
Acid number : 0.6 to 2.5
Ester number : 2 to 12
Ester number after acetylation : 8.5 to 12
Solubility : Soluble in 0.4 to 1.5 volumes of 80% alcohol
Uses
a) In perfumes of the woody oriental type; in spice blends and flavors for alcoholic beverages
b) Medicinal & Aromatherapy use: Calamus causes increased dilation of spleenic vessels, an important factor in regulating blood pressure