Vekhand / Vacha/ Sweetflag [Botanical name – Acorus Calamus]is a Semi-aquatic strongly aromatic perennial, cultivated in damp marshy places in India & Burma, commonly in Manipur & Naga hills on the edges of lakes & streams. Acorus Calamus has been an item of trade in many cultures for thousands of years. Vekhand (roots/rhizomes) has been used medicinally for a wide variety of ailments, and its aroma makes calamus essential oil valued in the perfume industry.

As per Ayurveda Vacha is pungent in taste, hot in potency & helps to suppress vitiated Vata. Ayurveda mentions that Vacha helps for emesis of toxins, clearing out toxins through urine & stools. Traditional uses mentions that Vekhand was routinely administered for flatulency, stomach fullness, abdominal pain and increasing appetite. Nowadays Vacha roots are given in form of hot infusion which supports reduction of inflammation of airways, cough bouts & fever. Vekhand Powder is given with Licorice Powder in form of paste with honey to soothe the throat and reduce pain. Vacha Powder taken 1 tsp with 1 cup warm water promotes relaxation from intestinal spasm, bowel gases and supports healthy appetite. Vekhand supports healthy nervous system. Externally Acorus root Powder when applied with Bhringaraj Powder as paste on head supports healthy scalp and hair growth. Externally Vacha root Powder promotes relief from pain and inflammation of rheumatic joints.