Rat Root, also known as Acorus calamus. Rat Root is the Canadian
Cree name for this plant, and was adopted as the universal name for this plant
among Herbology circles. Other labels this plant goes by include sea sledge,
flag root, myrtle grass, sweet myrtle, sweet rush, Gladdon, and Beewort.

Rat Root is an
abortifacient and therefore pregnant women may not be treated with it. 

A reed-like
perennial which grows to the height of about one meter. Its leaves are strongly
scented with a bitter taste, and the powdered rhizomes of Rat Root may be used
as a substitute for ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg 

viewed as a symbol of love, however the properties of Rat Root are not conducive to
romance, but are often used as a tool against women. 

qualities of Rat
Root

· 
Abortifacient

· 
Anodyne (relives pain)

· 
Anthelmintic

· 
Aphrodisiac (used in some love
potions)

· 
Carminative

· 
Counters the side effects of
hallucinogens

· 
Diuretic

· 
Hallucinogen

· 
Laxative

· 
Otalgic (cures ear aches)

· 
Sedative

A water plant, and thus grows
in moist soils. It is thereby necessary to water the herb about once every two
to three days. Sunlight is a huge must for Rat Root; do not plant this one in
the shade! Rat Root grows best in shallow water, marshes, by the edge of a
river, or in ponds. Seeds are ripe in July and August, and should be planted
quite quickly after you obtain them. Rat Root flowers between May and July.