Skin Conditioning
ACORUS CALAMUS ROOT
Safety score · 0–100
Caution
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Calamus root — traditional but concerning. Contains beta-asarone, a genotoxic compound restricted in foods and best avoided in modern cosmetics.
Acorus calamus (sweet flag) root has a long ethnobotanical history, but its essential oil and extracts commonly contain beta-asarone, which regulatory reviews (EFSA, EMA) classify as genotoxic and carcinogenic in animal studies. The EU strictly limits beta-asarone in foodstuffs and the tetraploid chemotype (highest beta-asarone) is effectively banned in herbal medicines. EU CosIng lists the INCI but there is no positive SCCS safety opinion supporting leave-on use, and most safety bodies discourage it. Some diploid North American chemotypes are lower in beta-asarone, but without chemotype verification the risk is uncontrolled. Evidence is moderate — chemistry is clear, cosmetic-specific clinical data is thin.
Skin benefits
- Traditional botanical heritage
Known concerns
- Beta-asarone genotoxicity
- Regulatory restriction in foods/herbal meds
- Uncontrolled chemotype risk
- Possible irritation
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related skin conditionings
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This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.