Costus
Other names for Costus
aucklandia
aucklandia lappa
aucklandia lappa extract
aucklandia lappa root extract
costus
costus amanum
costus extract
costus igneus
costus igneus leaf powder
costus root extract
costus root extract, dry
costus (saussurea costus) dried root liquid extract
mu xiang
saussurea
saussurea costus root extract
saussurea costus root extract, dry
saussurea lappa
Synopsis of Costus
History
Costus (Saussurea costus), also known as "kuth" or "qist", has been a prized medicinal root in traditional healing systems for centuries. Revered in Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Unani practices, costus root has been noted for its warm, aromatic properties and its wide-ranging health benefits. In Ayurveda, costus was traditionally used to support respiratory health, acting as a remedy for coughs, asthma, and bronchitis due to its expectorant qualities. It was also employed to support digestion, promote skin health, and even as a tonic to balance the doshas.
In TCM, costus root—often referred to as "mu xiang"—was historically used to invigorate Qi, alleviate bloating, and ease abdominal discomfort. Its warming nature made it a favored ingredient for dispelling cold and dampness from the body. Unani medicine also utilized costus for conditions like rheumatism, skin diseases, and as a general tonic to fortify the body.
Costus root is frequently included in herbal combinations to amplify its therapeutic effects. When blended with herbs like licorice, ginger, or cardamom, it synergistically enhances digestive function and soothes the respiratory tract. In traditional formulations, it often functions as a harmonizer, ensuring that complex herbal blends are both effective and gentle. Modern nutritional products continue to value costus for its adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, underscoring its enduring reputation as a beneficial and versatile herbal remedy.
Traditional and scientific validation
Costus (Saussurea costus), a perennial herb native to the Himalayan region, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Unani, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Traditionally, the root of costus has been valued for its purported benefits in supporting digestive health, respiratory function, and overall wellness. Its essential oil, rich in sesquiterpene lactones and other phytochemicals, has been utilized as both a flavoring agent and a therapeutic ingredient in various cultures.
Scientific studies on costus have explored its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory properties. For example, in vitro and animal research has shown that costus extracts may help reduce markers of inflammation and combat oxidative stress. A few small clinical studies have suggested potential benefits in alleviating symptoms of asthma and gastrointestinal discomfort, but these findings are preliminary and require confirmation in larger, well-designed human trials.
Despite promising laboratory and preclinical results, robust clinical evidence supporting costus as an effective nutritional or therapeutic agent remains limited. Still, the historical use and emerging scientific data highlight its potential as a valuable ingredient in nutritional products. Continued research is warranted to fully elucidate its safety, efficacy, and mechanisms of action in humans. Overall, costus remains an intriguing botanical with a rich tradition and encouraging early scientific support for its inclusion in health-promoting formulations.
Costus is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bladder Infection (Traditional)
Blood Poisoning (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Cholesterol (high) (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Ear Infection or Earache (Traditional)
Eczema (Traditional)
Emphysema (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed) (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Gingivitis (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Costus is used to support these body systems
Bladder (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
