Calamus Root Breaking Into the Cosmetic World

Acorus calamus reportedly contains a high concentration of the phytonutrients calamusenone and camphene. The former serves industrial roles as a surfactant and emulsifier. It also is involved in processes such as lipid transport and metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, lipid peroxidation and metabolism, and cell signaling.

Camphene similarly serves as a plant metabolite, as well as a fragrance. In fact, due to its aromatic properties, calamus root is used in shampoo, hair conditioner, body lotions, bathing soaps, toothpaste and other personal care products. Its spicy and woody scent can replace traditional spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger.

Acorus calamus root even is widely used as an essential oil and has a revitalizing role to play in personal care—specifically for moisturizing the skin, as reported in the Personal Care Products Council’s wINCI Dictionary. According to one supplier, the extract is used in traditional medicine to relieve headaches and migraines and other nervous system issues. It is said to reduce swelling in joints, and to calm and relax the user, as well as to treat vertigo and dysentery symptoms.

In relation, Transparency Market Research reported that escalating demand for organic cosmetics has generated the increased production of calamus root in recent years. This expected to broaden opportunities for investors, as calamus root is expected to proliferate in terms of value and volume between 2018 and 2026.