Evidence supporting the use of: Costus
For the health condition: Glands (swollen lymph)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Costus (Saussurea costus), also known as "kuth" or "qist al-hindi," has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and Unani. In these traditions, Costus root is believed to possess anti-inflammatory and lymphatic-supporting properties. Traditional practitioners have used Costus preparations for the management of "swollen glands," which typically refers to enlarged lymph nodes, often associated with infections or inflammatory conditions. The rationale is primarily based on Costus’s reputed ability to "clear toxins," reduce inflammation, and support immune function.
However, scientific validation for these uses remains limited. While some laboratory studies indicate Costus extracts have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, there is a lack of direct clinical research specifically examining its effects on swollen lymph nodes or lymphatic disorders. No well-designed human studies have confirmed its efficacy for this indication. Therefore, the use of Costus for treating or supporting swollen lymph glands is primarily grounded in traditional knowledge rather than strong scientific evidence. Individuals considering its use should consult with a healthcare professional, as Costus may interact with medications and can be toxic in high doses.
Other ingredients used for Glands (swollen lymph)
betelIndian frankincense
bovine
burdock
Coptis chinensis
turmeric
dog rose
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
fu ling
goldenseal
onion
horseradish
honeysuckle
Japanese sophora
licorice root
spruce
oregon grape
phellodendron amurense
platycodon root
reishi mushroom
schizonepeta
scrophularia root
serratiopeptidase
slippery elm bark
chickweed
Indian bael
ferula assafoetida
punarnava
commiphora
caesalpinia crista
rubia cordifolia
swertia
peony
goldenrod
myrrh
fern
sweet flag
oriental arborvitae
trichosanthes
zanthoxylum
sheep's sorrel
eucalyptus
cleavers
paw paw
white oak
geranium
Aralia
Avens
Ardisia
Angelica
Agrimony
Allicin
Achyranthes
Anamu
Abrus
Ajuga
Aerva lanata
American Liverleaf
Agrimonia pilosa
Abuta
Amor seco
Arisaema
Bee Propolis
Betony
Baikal Skullcap
Blue Flag
Baliospermum
Blackthorn
Broussonetia
Butea monosperma
Barleria
Bitter Grass
Banyan
Black Nightshade
Bombax
Black root
Bupleurum
Borneol
Chinese Silkvine
Calendula
Calotropis gigantea
Cynomorium
Cinquefoil
Cyathula
Cajuput
Centipeda
cypress
Cynodon dactylon
Costus
Collinsonia
Castor Oil
Celosia
Dianthus
Didymocarpus
Devil's Club
Dichrostachys glomerata
Dipsacus
European Elder
Erodium cicutarium
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Goldthread
Garlic
Galangal
Little ironweed
Mustard
Mallow
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Costus
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Appetite (deficient)
Asthma
Backache
Bladder Infection
Blood Poisoning
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Cough (general)
Cough (spastic)
Cuts
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Ear Infection or Earache
Eczema
Emphysema
Fatigue
Fever
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)