sweet flag

Sweet flag refers to plants in the genus Acorus, which are characterized by long, narrow leaves and aromatic roots. These perennial herbaceous plants are typically found in wetlands across the Northern Hemisphere. The order Acorales, which includes sweet flag, is the most basal lineage among monocotyledons.12

Historically, sweet flag (Acorus calamus) has been used as an herbal ingredient since ancient times, and certain species are cultivated as ornamentals. However, it's important to note that Acorus calamus has been banned for use as a flavoring agent and in alternative medicine in several countries due to potential carcinogenic effects and toxicity. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration reported its use as unsafe in 1968.21